Hiking

Where to Hike…

Whether you are looking for a challenging half-day trail or just want to stretch your legs before sunset, here are a few options for you. Remember, never hike alone in the mountains. Let someone know where you’re going (or leave a note), take a hat, sunscreen, and enough water. Summer temperatures can rise quickly after sunrise and by mid-morning can be quite hot, so start early and plan your hike accordingly. Here are a few hikes to consider:

In The Mount Bain Estate

Explore The Mountain

The mountain directly behind The Unbound is part of Cape Nature. You are welcome to explore this to your heart’s content. There are no demarcated trails here so you’ll have to be adventurous and ready to explore! Leave from the back door of the house and return there. Don’t come down the mountain elsewhere into the estate as you may be walking onto private property. There are waterfalls, cliffs, and spectacular scenery to enjoy.

Meander Along The Jeep Tracks

Mount Bain Meander Map

You are welcome to hike or walk along the jeep tracks in the estate. IMPORTANT: Aside from the roads, the estate is mostly private property. Please respect the privacy of our owners and their guests. Here are a few important pointers to help you enjoy your hike:

• Download the map above
• Stick to the demarcated routes
• Do NOT approach any houses
• Do not litter

Hike Bakkrans Trail

Bakkrans Trail Map

The Bakkrans trail is a short private trail at the entrance to the Mount Bain reserve. It’s a mere 1.9 km from The Unbound and you can easily walk to the trailhead on the jeep tracks. The trail leads 400m up the side of the mountain towards Bakkrans, a spectacular cliff with a beautiful rock arch. From here you can follow the contour around. the mountain for another 930 m to reach a seasonal waterfall. It’s a great spot to cool off. Walking back to the road is a quick 440m downhill. IMPORTANT: There’s a private house near the waterfall, please double back on your tracks for a short t distance before starting down the mountain, and do not approach the house.

• Trail distance: 2.4 km (Trailhead and back loop)
• Estimated time: 2.5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Unbound to trailhead: 1.9 km (30 min by foot)
• Trailhead: -33.51774, 19.17301
• Permit Required: No

Limietberg Nature Reserve Hikes

The following three trails are all part of the Limietberg Nature Reserve with the trailheads in Bainskloof Pass. The trailheads for these are all within a 30-minute drive from The Unbound

Map of the Limietberg Trails on Forge

Bobbejaans River Trail 

• Trail distance: 8km
• Estimated time: 6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Unbound to trailhead: 18 km (28 min)
• Trailhead: -33.6161534, 19.1008
• Permit Required: Yes

Starting at the Bainskloof Corner Lodge parking area near De Nek, this picturesque trail takes you on a journey across the Bobbejaans River, a tributary of the Witte River. After approximately 3.5 kilometers, you’ll reach the river’s refreshing mountain pools, perfect for a swim—so don’t forget your swimsuit. The trail’s final section involves a steep climb, rewarding hikers with a breathtaking view of a cascading three-tiered waterfall. Summer is an especially delightful time to explore, with vibrant disas and towering proteas in full bloom. However, be cautious in winter, as heavy rainfall can make crossing the Witte River challenging.

Happy Valley Trail

• Trail distance: 9km
• Estimated time: 6 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Unbound to trailhead: 16 km (25 min)
• Trailhead: -33.6020442, 19.1105578
• Permit Required: Yes

This gentle walk begins in Bainskloof at Eerste Tol, perfect for families and beginners. The trail follows a jeep track, passing the remnants of an old house and a monument honoring the 1895 Witte River disaster. Along the way, you’ll find numerous stunning rock pools, so pack your swimsuit for a refreshing dip. The route concludes at the serene Junction Pools, where two rivers converge in a peaceful setting. Simply retrace your steps to return. Be mindful that rivers may run high in winter.

Rockhopper Trail

• Trail distance: 8km
• Estimated time: 6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Unbound to trailhead: 11 km (18 min)
• Trailhead: -33.5645594, 19.1438419
• Permit Required: Yes

This moderate-to-difficult trail in Bainskloof is perfect for adventurous, fun-loving hikers. It features rock hopping, swimming, and navigating a boulder-strewn riverbed. While most water obstacles can be bypassed, hikers must wade through a pool near Tweede Tol.

The trail begins at Eerste Tol in the Bainskloof Pass, following the Witte River and ending at the Tweede Tol picnic site—an ideal spot to enjoy a well-earned lunch. As a linear route, it requires transportation at both the start and finish. Note that the trail is closed when the river is too full. Potential hazards include unpredictable weather, slippery rocks, wind, and ticks.