Die Bosveld Outdoor Lifestyle Venue

So my two sons, Salt (24) and Pepper (27), can't be my ETERNAL hiking buddies.

They're (already) grown adults, for crying out loud, and despite my protests, are bound to go and make a life for themselves that does not involve hiking with mommy!!

As much as I adore hiking and natural wonders, my friends are completely obsessed with shopping and material wonders.

There’s me, trudging up picturesque trails, surrounded by nature’s splendour, and there’s them, elbow-deep in the latest designer sales. How our friendship rope remains untangled and unfrayed is beyond me. It’s a miracle, really.

So, faced with the prospect of solo hikes (I am not that “I’ll hike alone and be one with nature” kinda gal), I realized I need a hiking "tribe" to keep this new passion of mine alive.

While the idea of me, an intolerant, shy, impatient, and antisocial specimen, needing a tribe is strange, it is in fact true.

While chatting at work, I discovered a kindred spirit who also wouldn't hike alone. Cue the light bulb moment: "What if I start a Facebook group for people like us?" Genius, right? She proceeded to matter of factly mention that there are already tons of those groups. Who knew?

So, I did what any sane person would do—I joined a bunch of these groups. And boy, was it overwhelming. Short hikes, long hikes, one-day hikes, multiple-day hikes... it was like discovering an entire parallel universe.

Eventually, I found a couple of groups that seemed relevant. I paid my dues, filled out forms, and informed Salt that he was now a member too. My plan was that initially, Salt and/or Pepper would tag along to these group hikes to help me break the ice. Payback time, kids. Remember when I helped you make friends 20 years ago? Yeah, it's your turn now.

Until then, we had planned our own hikes every weekend, usually on Sundays. Those early morning stops at petrol stations to buy coffee for the road? Just an extension of what promised to be a magical day.

I had joined a Whats App group for "Die Bosveld" and had told Salt we were meeting the group at 7h45. But us early risers arrived at 6h45.

His pouty face clearly suggested we get started. To be fair, I agreed, as that hour start is actually the best time of the hike!!. So we decided to hike solo.

The trail began among the trees that were not just beautiful; they were majestic giants that commanded respect and admiration, providing ample shade. We were greeted by a sight so breathtaking that words can scarcely do it justice.

The trees at the start of the trail were nothing short of magnificent, creating a natural canopy, their branches intertwining with sunlight filtering through the leaves, creating a magical atmosphere. It was nature’s masterpiece, and we were smack dab in the middle of it.

Unfortunately, I have no photos to share, because back in the early days (just a few months ago, by the way), if I had dared whip out my phone to take pictures, Salt would have given me a hard time for being a "tourist," and would have blamed me for ruining the moment. Such a drama queen....honestly!!

The shade continued throughout most of the hike, which I loved as I hate getting overheated on a hike. Those first 15 minutes were pure bliss. I was so thankful we didn't wait another hour to start; the early morning coolness made the experience even more sublime.

Sorry to the group who waited for us—we didn’t mean to bail, but nature’s call was irresistible. As for the hike itself, it was a gentle mix of inclines and declines. I appreciated the slow, steady climbs and the opportunity to catch my breath here and there.

We opted for the 10 km trail, combining two 5 km loops. Because of the varied terrain, it took us about two hours to complete the first loop.

Salt, still pouting from his long week, decided he was done after the first 5 km. To be fair to him....he's normally uber accommodating. However, I could EASILY have continued the next 5 km.

Each hike I’ve taken so far has given me something unique and Die Bosveld was no exception. It's a hidden gem that’s now firmly on my radar for future adventures.

So, the plan? I'm going back for the full 10 km hike soon. And maybe, just maybe, I'll find that tribe.

AREA: Pretoria

COST: R 70 pp.

DIFFICULTY - MODERATE

For anyone over 50 and in average shape, this hike is totally doable. Just take it at your own pace.

Die Bosveld gives you the option to start with the tougher part of the trail or end with it. I loved that, as everyone has their preference.

LENGTH - 5 km

When our hike was slashed to a paltry 5 km, I Initially felt a pang of disappointment. Was this even worth lacing up my boots for? Indeed, it was.

I often find that a 5 km hike just does not hit the sweet spot. But due to the nature of the hike, this one turned out to be great. Still plan to go back for the 10 km though!

TIME - 2 hrs

HIGHLIGHTS: Undoubtedly those trees…..OH MY HAT!!

ELEVATION - 280 m

The elevation, in old goat language - when I saw that the elevation was 280 meters, I was surprised. This climb turned out to be a slow and enjoyable ascent.

Although it was moderately tough, it felt painless. No huffing, no puffing, just a gentle, painless climb.

I didn’t have to resort to using tree branches or rocks to haul myself up or get down very often. So basically, I didn’t feel like the agile superhero I did on the Muningi Trail.

MARKERS - Extremely well marked.

AMENITIES - At the start, we discovered a charming coffee shop nestled among the trees. Imagine sipping a hot cup of coffee while surrounded by such splendour.

The serene setting made every sip more enjoyable, adding a layer of tranquility to our post-hike reflections.

Ablutions spotless

Safe parking a plenty.