Fountainhill Estate Hike

Hike report by Kate Guiot

12 of us hikers signed up for Libby’s Fountainhill Estate hike despite her warnings of cool weather and a possibility of rain. We gathered at the gate in the decidedly crisp morning air and tried to gauge the weather for the day, but the sky wasn’t letting us in on its plans. We hopped back in our cars and set off along the road to our starting point – had we walked from the entrance we would have had to wade through ankle deep water flowing over the low lying bridge.

Libby was uncertain whether the waterfall route would be passable or not so opted for the butterfly trail. Not even a km along the comfortably grassy path we spotted 3 Nyala alongside us, though they quickly distanced themselves from our chattering. Further along the road we crossed a few muddy patches churned up by various spoor, now starting to fossilize in the winter sun which decided to bless us with its appearance. It was clear from these footprints, and the fresh droppings, that the giraffe were not far off.

This also led to a discussion and investigation of the other poop scattered along the way (and an amusing anecdote about one hiker’s sister). And while I don’t recall seeing an abundance of butterflies on the butterfly trail we were surprised by the quantity of porcupine quills lying about. I’ve given up collecting them since they’ve shredded the side pockets of my backpack, though Gilly suggested the fabulous idea of a bun in the hair to stick them through (sorry guys, man-buns were last season’s fashion accessory and hopefully never to be seen again). 

After a slight detour down and back up a steepish path, jerseys were shed and a tea break in order. It was only a short trip further to the Rangers Hut where we round-tabled our coven in the shade of a magical tree.

Snacks munched and thirst quenched we set off again, keeping eyes and ears alert for more animal sightings. A brief stop to take in the view and deduce where and what we were looking at (I could only make out lots of sugarcane fields) and onwards again, the path now veering back towards the direction we started.

 

 In the distance a lone giraffe was seen breakfasting on an acacia, and soon after a pair of zebra in their stripey pj’s. As the giraffe followed us to a split in the path, we were tempted to head in his direction for better photo opportunities, but for his peace and our safety, decided to let him be.
 
We soon realized that he wasn’t stalking us but rather making his way closer to his tribe who we’d now come across around the corner. A sturdy looking male blocked our path while the others peered inquisitively down at us. We stopped and waited and used the moment for a photo shoot. Just as we thought we’d have to retrace our steps, he graciously stepped aside and we tentatively passed, adrenaline at the ready should we need to make a run for it. Fortunately not necessary.
 
 

The sun was still shining and had chased the chill out of the air; we all agreed that it had been a lovely hike with perfect weather! While most of us decided to head home at this point, Libby, Astrid and Margaret scouted on towards the other two dams and were rewarded with the sighting of two Eland – lucky ladies! Thank you Libby for your superb leadership and we eagerly await the waterfall trail…!!

Photos contributed by Katy, Libby, Gilly, Christa, Sarah & Daryl

 The sun was still shining and had chased the chill out of the air; we all agreed that it had been a lovely hike with perfect weather! While most of us decided to head home at this point, Libby, Astrid and Margaret scouted on towards the other two dams and were rewarded with the sighting of two Eland – lucky ladies! Thank you Libby for your superb leadership and we eagerly await the waterfall trail…!!

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