With tougher walking and a difficult scramble proposed, only 11 members of the party joined George and Stanley. An early mist began to clear as we climbed up through the Fern Forest to Rustlers’ Gap, where razor wire is used to deter rustlers – and to slow down Ramblers. Soon we could see the Ace of Spades seen earlier in the week, and where we would have to tackle Scilla Gully which had a difficult rocky scramble and a steep ascent along a rocky, overgrown path. This was followed by another steep climb up a narrow ridge. Once at the top it was an easy walk to the summit of Hlolela and on to Battleship. As we were now behind schedule it was decided to miss out part of the walk. This proved to be a wise decision when thunder started as we descended Battleship. Rain followed as we headed across to Sugar Loaf Gap but did not last long. After visiting Thonsela Cave to eat lunch, and another cave to see more rock art we followed the path back to the hotel.
A very small gap and razor wire to deter rustlers - which are still active in places
Time for a short break with views across to Sugar Loaf
One section of the Ace of Spades seen earlier in the week, and to its right . . .
lies Scilla Gap . . .
a steep climb . . .
narrow in places
Another ascent brings us to the top of the escarpment . . .
and from there we walk on to the summit of Hlolela
Anyone for a piggy-back?
Looking back to Hlolela as we climb Battleship, with our route up from the top of Scilla Gap to the right
Discussions on Battleship as we are advised that it would be wise to cut out part of the walk . . .
and the thunder starts as we descend Battleships over rough ground and . . .
down Sugar Loaf Gap in the rain
Thonsela Cave provides a good spot for lunch . . .
and the trees . . .
follow the line of the rock face
A detour to a second cave . . .
with more San Rock paintings