CAMELROC GUEST FARM ADVENTURES
This gateway trail offers spectacular views into the Free State and Lesotho and is one of the best options for beginner hikers, family, school or church groups in the sandstone mountains.
Situated on the South Africa side near the Caledonspoort border, the location is ideal for hikers or visitors to this area for a short stop-over. It is also a perfect base to explore Lesotho’s major tourist attractions including the Katse Dam, the ski slopes of Lesotho (85km), dinosaur footprints in Lesotho (50km), the mountian retreats and other tourist attractions.
HIKING TRAILS
Both the trails set out from the lovely camping area.
The longer trail is about 9km but one should not be fooled by the apparent short distance. The hike is full of challenges and interest and takes rather longer than may be expected. The trail winds its way up the mountain in between poplar and indigenous clumps of bush and walks underneath the sandstone overhangs for quite a distance. There are strenuous climbs up the mountain with names like “Heartbreak Hill” and “Moedbreek Hoogte” – apt descriptions! Access to the most magnificent cave “Gods Window”, is reached on two routes catering for the bold via “The Ledge” or on an alternative gentler route called the “Chicken Run”. One crosses over a dramatic, almost suspended bridge to The Camel Head, the pinnacle of the trail.
The trail continues on top of the plateau towards Caesar’s View where the Maluti’s come into full view, after which the route starts descending. The Blesbuck in the game camp should be spotted from this vantage point. The trail drops into a gorge and remains in the shade under indigenous trees, high above the Caledon River. The last stretch winds its way through poplar groves to end off at the pools in the river.
The shorter trail (3km) is an enjoyable combination of a mountain and riverine trail with a strong cultural and historical influence. On this day the views into the Free State will come into their own. A strange overhang cave called “Grot Woning” is a mysterious dwelling of some past inhabitants. There has been much speculation about the history of this area.
Day hikers are welcome by permit only.
Distance / Duration :Two trails – 9km and 3km
Degree of difficulty : Easy to average
Ablutions Block: 2 flush toilets, 2 showers, 2 basins.
Pertinent information : Hikers are welcome to enjoy the swimming pool at the Guest House or watch the TV for big sport matches.
Location of trail : 9km from Fouriesburg, 230km from Bloemfontein, 320km from Gauteng.
4X4 TRAILS
We have personally groomed a 6km trail which you can expect to complete between 2 to 4 hours. The course takes you around the farm, up the side of the mountain to a beautiful view point, back down a adventurous slope, and past a cliff edge which leads you over a beautiful grass field. The trail can only be attempted by fully fledged 4×4 vehicles.
Challenging course:
It is necessary to be very knowledgeable of your own vehicle and be conscious of where your four wheels are. Participants are welcome to pack rocks and do a bit of road building should they feel the necessity to avoid damage to the undersides of the vehicle. There are numerous obstacles to negotiate, although you do not require high speed to overcome them.
Cost:
– Self Drive: R100 per vehicle
– 4×4 Tour: R500 (Fee includes up to 4 passengers)
Important to know:
– Not recommended for 4×4 drivers without adequate 4×4 experience.
– Tyre pressure reduction is advised, although not too soft to avoid damage to the tyre side walls. This is why experience is required.
– AWD and 2-wheel drive vehicles with diff-lock will not cope with the terrain.
– The trail is also impossible in wet weather.
– Damage to vehicles is a possibility if you do not exercise caution on the trail.
MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS
This is a genuine MOUNTAIN bike trail. Set out in the Rooiberge of the Eastern Free State, near Fouriesburg. Beautiful and varied single trail purpose built for authentic mountain biking. Excellent views along most of the trail. This is for the adventurer who wants more than just riding on gravel roads and Jeep tracks. You will not want to ride this exciting trail just once!!!
The MTB route is a new addition at Camelroc Guest Farm and has been laid out in the mountainous region of the Eastern Free State. We have two routes. A 10km figure eight route which is completely on Camelroc Guest Farm.
The second route is 30km, with some two short-cuts to reduce the route to 10km’s and 20km’s as well. This route is quite difficult with a very tough climb up to the mountain top.
The trail is mostly single track and quite technical. Riders are advised not to ride beyond their capability. If in doubt “get off and push”. The trail has been very well laid out with great variety. Winding through trees, along the Small Caledon river, climbing the mountain, long winding down-hills (after the climb!!)
Beautiful views overlooking the Maluti mountains, the two Caledon rivers, rural Lesotho, and viewing Blesbuck.