Van Gaalen Cheese Farm: Shady Trails As Ordered

Finally ticked another hike off my list—Van Gaalen Cheese Farm. Well kinda, as I will definitely be back.

Now, let me tell you, when I was scoping this place out, the reviews were all over the place. Some made it sound like an uphill trial of endurance with zero shade, while others described it as a breezy walk in the park. Turns out, it's somewhere in between. There are multiple trails. So, depending on your choice, you’ll either feel like a mountain goat or someone out for a scenic stroll.

Given the heatwave trying to bake everything in sight, I picked the 10 km shaded trail for Pepper and me. And, let me tell you, I didn’t expect that much shade, but it was glorious! We were basically wrapped in a leafy, natural canopy for most of the hike, with tunnels of reeds and little bridges popping up along the way. It’s like nature’s personal air conditioning unit. The paths not only made the heat bearable, but they were absolutely stunning.

We had some farmyard greeters—chickens, llamas, and the classic Jack Russell farm dog. This little guy was casually standing next to a dead bird with an "I did nothing" look on his face... except for the feather hanging out of his mouth. Nice try Sherlock.

The best part? No soul-destroying inclines! After the previous days hike, and the heat, that was exactly as ordered!!

There are even a few escape routes if you want to tap out early—but seriously, why would you?

The trail meanders along a river for a good stretch, adding that extra bit of zen to the whole experience.

All in all, a solid hike, and I will definitely be back to try the other trails. Seems like each one has its own flavour, and I’m ready for the next adventure!

AREA: Skeerpoort, Hartbeespoort

COST: R 50

DIFFICULTY: Easy

LENGTH: 10 km

TIME:

3 hours, though you could knock it out quicker if you’re not distracted by llamas and suspicious dogs!

ELEVATION:

Flat, because some days we’re just not here for hills

MARKERS: 100%

HIGHLIGHTS

The reed tunnels were super unique

ABLUTIONS

Clean and well-kept

SAFE FREE PARKING:

AMENITIES

Mountain biking, trail running, hiking, birding, picnics, a lovely terrace restaurant, and cheese tours! The "farm stall" was a bit underwhelming, but we weren’t really there to shop, so no biggie.

ON A FINAL NOTE

If you’re looking for a chill, scenic hike with plenty of shade and no risk of your legs giving out halfway, this trail at Van Gaalen’s got you covered....quite literally.