The first full moon of the year and what better place to watch it rise than from the top of Devil’s Peak. Now, the scenic and more interesting route up starts from Rhode’s Mem taking in Mowbray Ridge and the spectacular Knife Edge. We however went up the “Direct Route”. Starting from Tafelberg Road at the Devil’s Peak sign post, we zig zaged up to the saddle and breakfast rock (more like a late tea for us) with a special visit from 2 majestic Black Eagles just cruising by in the late afternoon sun. On and upward, with the route up being hard work but the reward is more than worth it. Being on top of Devil’s Peak as the sun sets on a warm Saturday evening and lights start to flicker on in the city below is special indeed.

We where also privileged enough to spot a group of thars - so we have proof of at least 7 on the mountain (there are rumoured to be about 50, but I can’t vouch for that). Even as the debate over these controversial Himalayan Mountain Goats rages, it would be quite sad to see these shy and expert mountain climbers disappear from our mountains despite them not belonging here and allegedly causing untold erosion to our precious mountains as they feed on the fynbos,

Darkness descended on us and we braved the chilly but not unpleasant breeze as Cape Town down below started to come to life. Our patience was rewarded as the huge orange moon slowly rose up above the far away mountains. As the moon rose up high enough, we reluctantly left our magical place with the full moon climbing above the small cloud cover to safely guide us down the mountain.

Been on the mountain at night (even on full moon) is not recommended unless you have someone who knows the mountain well and are you are all properly equipped with torches and warm clothing.

cheers for now