Exploring The Sevilla Rock Art Trail in Clanwilliam

A fun way to do an arrival “stappie” when going to the Cederberg. We did this as a late morning walk while first taking time to have breakfast in Clanwilliam and then a slow drive over the absolutely stunning Pakhuis pass, stopping regularly to clamber over rock formations and gaze at the sublime views

About 36km’s outside Clanwilliam on the road to Calvinia, do yourself the favour of pulling over at Traveller’s Rest. They have a 4,7km out and back trail that is delightful. You pay R40.00 at the restaurant and it is worth every cent as they also give you a pamphlet with more info on each site. From here you head out to the other side of the weir and follow the white footprints. This is not a difficult trail and is perfect for all ages and levels of fitness. It was a perfect trail to introduce a non-hiker to.

Tips for this hike:

• Make sure you have enough water to rehydrate as it does get hot here.
• Have a cap/hat with you.
• Pack a light towel as you will definitely swim.
• Pack a light lunch, great for a picnic either at the river or one of the art sites.
• Binoculars to find the animals & birds.

Please DO NOT…

• TOUCH the paintings
• SPRAY WATER or LIQUID on the paintings
• DUST the paintings with any object/cloth
• There are 9 sites along the trail that have some stunning rock art dating back between 800 and 8000 years. One of the sites has depictions of animals that look very much like dinosaurs.

We were there in April during a particularly hot spell. The Brandewyn river winds alongside the trail and although the river was fairly dry there were still some swimming holes to cool down in. This trail will be spectacular in August/September when the wildflowers bloom. Stunning rock formations abound

We saw Eland and Dassies as well as other small reptiles and insects. By midday it was sweltering hot but the many overhangs and caves provided cool spots to sit and take in the artwork on display. We took our time. Savouring the outdoors, listening to birds and simply connecting with the earth. On the return walk we stopped at a cool swimming hole and spent time having snacks, soaking in the water and revelling in all the amazing art we had seen. A short 1.5km’s back to the Travellers Rest for something cold to drink at the farmstall and we were once again on our way heading into the great Cederberg Wildnerness

For more info on this trail email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / www.travlersrest.co.za

 

Did you know: The Cederberg is classified as a wildnerness area which means one can pitch a tent most anywhere and do a spot of wild camping. On some farms you will pay a nominal fee but if you plan to hike into the wildnerness you literally find a cave/overhang and make that your overnight stop. Look out for my upcoming article on wild camping along with tips; do’s & dont’s.

Conservation Mag is an Amazon affiliate, by clicking on the links to do your shopping you support us without paying anything extra. 
Shop on amazon.com | amazon.co.uk