The Pit of Despair

We forsook the overtures of the Yates’ to ply us with a masterful collection of South Africa’s finest wines including most if not all the Platter 5 star ones and headed off to Hellfire with our kids and young Charlie Yates. As usual Lucy, now 5, stormed up the slope and we were greeted at the Pit of Despair by a bellow from Charlie who could not contain himself when he saw the deep dark cavern in the torch light.

“Awesome…..’’

We descended into the pit and Margaret undid her voluminous pack from her shoulders and I dropped mine to the ground in great relief. Between us we had carried up and “eco-braai,” 15 litres of water, climbing gear for 6 of us and all the other bits of pieces. The kids passed out 2/3 the way through dinner.

We slept fitfully and as usual, I had to deal with the resident rastus at least 3 times.

Nymphette in the PIT!

We all climbed an easy route then next day and then fulfilled and exhausted we descended to the road and I cycled back to Du Toit’s Kloof lodge to fetch our vehicle….


Pretty cool.!

Margaret and
Charlie Yates





















Duncan climbing