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Hartbeespoort

By Must Love Hiking

You Must Love Hiking to wake up at 5am to set off on the road by 05h45. The drive is just over an hour from Johannesburg. We are off on this journey. As we approach the area, we witness three hot air balloons take flight into the early crisp winter skies. That is still on my bucket list to do. The plan for today is to enjoy an easy, scenic 12km hike at this incredible venue. Van Gaalen Cheese Farm is known for some of its long, easy trails although it also has not so easy trails.

Van Gaalen Cheese Farm routes

From the starting point, we headed out onto the green trail, crossing a river which was not too challenging. There used to be a suspension bridge as an option to cross but unfortunately it was washed away during the floods a few months ago. The damage from the flood is very evident as you hike through this trail. Much work to repair it is necessary but nonetheless, the trail remains as stunning as always. Some of the bridges that we had to crossover were not too stable but not dangerous either when done slowly.

The terrain is not too uneven but you are faced with the roots of the many trees that you need to carefully navigate through. Whenever you are hiking, footwear must always be of great importance. Hiking in the incorrect footwear will discourage you. You are going to experience discomfort in your feet and that is never pleasant. We strongly encourage you to ensure that you are always well equipped and that you have the necessary hike vitals for a hike. Hike vitals: Sun hat, sunblock, hiking stick, nutritional hike snacks, water, isotonic, hiking boots and socks. A great tip to protect your feet from blisters is to rub vaseline on your feet and toes before wearing your socks.

We are grateful for our Merrell hiking boots that have proven to be comfortable and provide great grip on the rough terrains. It does give you the feeling that you are safe on the trail.

I struggle with flat, broad feet and collapsed arches which ultimately means that my feet will be in pain but my Erie Mid, Leather Waterproof hiking boot from Merrell Footwear has been a great support to me on my hiking journey.

Van Gaalen Cheese Farm field notes

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