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 my son 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.