Hiking the Tepelkop Trail in the Free State

Tepelkop Hiking Trail is at Slabberts, a small farming hamlet close to the eastern Free State town of Bethlehem. The trail derives its name from the distinctively shaped peak that is a focal point of the area.

The weathering of the sandstone has produced a rugged but soft tone to the vistas you look out on as you relax under the shade of two massive eucalyptus trees.

There are two trails at Tepelkop. Each has its own special characteristics. Day 1 takes you to the summit of Tepelkop, with its rare endemic Medusa’s head (vingerpol) euphorbias. After following a contour path for some distance, the trail takes you to hidden secrets in the rocky krans.

Here you could almost expect to find elven folk at work in the sweeping green of the grasses that grow in the rich dampness of the overhangs. It’s with reluctance that you eventually have to return to the human reality of camp.

The second day of the hike explores a mountainside with interesting rock formations and magnificent views that will keep your camera clicking.

Back at camp, the owner has provided many comforts to make the hiker’s stay memorable. Accommodation is in a converted old sandstone barn. Hot showers and flush toilets, plus a fully equipped kitchen (with fridge) help make this weekend away special. For winter nights, there are gas heaters.

Over to you
Tepelkop is 19 kilometres down a dirt road from the R26 turn-off to Slabberts. Hikers are accommodated in an old barn with bunk beds and mattresses, tables, modern ablutions, a fully equipped kitchen with fridge and microwave. It costs R100 a person a day. Book through Jacana Travel Marketing and Reservations, tel 0861-52-2262 e-mail bookings@jacanacollection.co.za.