Captains Peak is between Karbonkelberg and Little Lion's head in Hout Bay, South Africa.

What was special or unique about this hike? I would immediately say, the perspective on the valley and natural bay formation. We were glad that is was not a very long walk as it gave us more time to just hang out on the peak. The views are more than spectacular. They give you a bird's eye view of Hout Bay. The constant stream of ant-like activity in the harbour below, from people and cars to boats and yachts… The Hout Bay valley is so clearly defined from here, nestled in by the surrounding mountains and sea.

The hike starts along the same road as the hike to the old radar station at the summit of Karbonkelberg. Start in Bay View Road; Hout Bay Heights. Follow the dirt road to past the second gate. When you get to a sandy stretch of about 25m, turn right, following the line of the firebreak up the slopes of Captain's Peak. The path is marked with the usual rock stackings to indicate a turn.

You soon reach a rocky section that rises quickly to form the summit of Captain's Peak. There is some rock climbing involved. Nothing more than a few short stints of "rock and tree hugging" as one of my co-hikers told me. That was after they left me stuck to the side of a particularly tricky rock face. They were lured away by the magnificent view. I got there in the end! WOW What a view! As I said it was the highlight of the hike for me. The Hout Bay Snoek Derby was being held and we felt like eagles looking down on all the festivities and activities happening in the valley below us.

All the way up we were spoilt with an amazing display of colours from the mountain flora. It's nearly spring and with the warm weather we have been experiencing the plants are not waiting around.

The indigenous grasses are fascinating as they grow in tall tufts and vary greatly in colour and form. The pics with these stories really say more than words. Through them you can also appreciate the tapestry that I'm trying to depict in words.

Pierre van Staden
E-mail me