Larder Trail: Another Off-Leash Dream for His Majesty

Great Pre-Hike Service

So yes, if it feels like Boris is taking over my feed, you’re not wrong. He absolutely is. But before you roll your eyes - this hike was actually planned. 

The previous one was one of those last-minute “please come with me so I don’t die alone” favours from Boris (and his person, Basil, of course).

But let’s be honest — it’s Boris. He’s allowed to take over my feed.

This time, our adventure took us to Larder, another trail that’s been sitting on my list since forever. Before heading out, I did my usual pre-hike check and sent a quick WhatsApp to confirm if the trail was indeed a Boris-approved, off-leash trail.

Within minutes, I got the warmest reply. The owner even offered to open the trail before the official 9 a.m. opening time and gave me a contact (shout-out to Blessing!) in case he wasn’t around.

That kind of thoughtful, pre-hike service always tells me the place is loved, both by its visitors and its hosts.

Hike First, Judge Later

I’d heard mixed things about this trail. The general consensus? “It’s boring.”

And this is exactly why I don’t read reviews BEFORE hiking.

Trails are deeply personal - what’s boring to one person might be peacefully meditative to another. And honestly, I’m rarely disappointed when I just show up and see for myself.

Was it the most scenic hike ever? No.

Was it the most thrilling? Also no.

But was it beautiful, calm, and quietly satisfying? Absolutely.

A Little Bit of Everything

The trail markings were great - mostly. There were a few moments where I’m pretty sure we wandered off-trail, but honestly, it didn’t matter. It’s one of those places where you couldn’t get lost even if you tried.

And anyway, when we did, I felt like we were uncovering little hidden nooks and crannies, each with its own mystery.

I saw things that left me with so many questions - and absolutely no answers.

Pretty on brand for my life, actually.

The trail had a little bit of everything:

A blink-and-you’ll-miss-it incline

A magical, shaded forest section.

A small dam, perfect for a moment of peaceful reflection (or Boris’s royal hydration stop).

A bit of road walking to tie it all together - which normally irritates me, but they worked with what they have. And honestly, it still beats endless zig-zags.

The Post-Hike Plan Aborted

We had visions of a perfect post-hike cappuccino at the stunning little farm stall waiting near the end. But about 15 minutes before we finished the trail, the power went out.

The owner apologized profusely and even refused to charge us for the hike. 

We offered (really, we did), but he wouldn’t hear of it.

Final Verdict: A Tail-Wagging Yes from Boris

I’ll be honest - as I so dramatically tend to be - if you’re chasing a summit, epic views, or an “I nearly died but worth it” moment, Larder won’t give you that.

But if you’re in the mood for an easy, peaceful wander surrounded by nature - or an off-leash trail where your dog can explore, sniff endlessly, and live his absolute best life - Larder is well worth the trip.

It’s peaceful, welcoming, and full of small, delightful surprises — kind of like Boris and Basil.

RATINGS

Trail Information

AREA

Rietfontein, Hartbeespoort

COST

Well free for us, but it is R 50 to R 100 according to Google

Trail Details

TRAIL DIFFICULTY

Easy and mostly flat.

TRAIL LENGTH

We clocked 8 km, you can decide your own adventure

TRAIL MARKERS

Good enough (with a sprinkle of “are we still on the trail?”)

WEATHER CONDITIONS TO CONSIDER

It is mostly open...so lots of water (and salt) on a hot day.

ABLUTIONS

SAFE FREE PARKING

AMENITIES

Farm stall with a deli, coffee, and food (when the power behaves)

NOTE TO SELF

How do pigeons know where they’re going and why don’t I?

FAMILY FRIENDLY

Totally — there’s play equipment at the farm stall.

PET FRIENDLY

Obviously. Boris gives it two paws up.

ON A FINAL NOTE

As we got back, Blessing asked how we’d enjoyed the hike and apologized for not finishing some cutting - what, we’re still not sure. Whatever it was mattered more to him than to us, which is a good sign of how much they care.

(TO)SOLO OR (NO)SOLO

(NO)SOLO