Day 10/2 - Clarens and Royal Natal

Unbeknown to me, the R712 which travels between Phuthaditjhaba and Clarens was previously controlled by an Entry/Exit Gate on both ends of the “Golden Gate Highlands National Park” buildings, now only raided, derelict constructions uncontrolled and not in use. So this road runs right through the National Park and slap bang through the middle of the campsite, completely open to regular traffic, including High speed taxis traversing between the two towns. Security = Nil However it turned out to be completely safe!

With only 20km from the campsite to Clarens, after our run we decided to treat ourselves to a spoil and a brekky in Clarens. Well worth the trip, the brekky and the scenery, and even supported the Local Community Initiative and had the car washed by the local lads.

Afterwards we returned to campsite, collected the caravan and headed to the “Royal Natal National Park” and the home to the Bearded Vulture (apparently)!

This road (R74) in comparison was in places dangerous as hell! All the warning signs to mind cattle and Kudu’s (no Ross, Kudu’s) but no mention of the massive sink holes and subsidence of the tar road on both sides! Hole across both lanes in places, big and deep enough to swallow the Fortuner and caravan at once! Only an unattended Stop/Go post for motorists to make their own call!!!😱😱😱

Other than that, although cloud patches mostly on the Berg a beautiful drive in. After setting up camp, we took a recommended hiking trail along a crystal clear river, waterfall and deep ponds. When we initially arrived, the campsite was occupied but again far from full. We settled into a site far from everyone else which although desirable turned out to be sub-optimal! Everyone well settled by sunset, the Durban brother’s arrived well after. Right in beside us, in 3 cars and 15 occupants! Soon after evening prayers, tents started to be pitched until (and unbeknown to us) they realised their site was right on top of a bog! So, we’ll into the night they had to uplift and find an alternative site😢

The silence now restored, we were able to take on night 10/96 in complete peace and quiet.Read more