Spilhaus Buttress

Route Description:

The start of this route can be approached from three directions: The Jeep Track and along the high contour path; straight up Spilhaus Ravine; or along the high contour path from Kirstenbosch. Only the route up the ravine is described here - see the map for alternatives.

From the parking off Rhodes Drive, go diagonally right and into Spilhaus Ravine. The path up the ravine crosses four Jeep Tracks and then zig-zags up the ravine, crossing the stream three times.  (After heavy rain there are several waterfalls in the ravine, making it a fun short outing on its own.)

Near the top the path goes out left and one has a good view of the buttress. About 100m further, one reaches a junction of 4 paths. Sharp left is the path that leads back towards Constantia Corner, while the path to the right is the high contour path to Kirstenbosch. Between these two is a faint track leading straight up.

Take the track straight up, with lots of short, easy scrambling up to the first rock band. Move right along this until there is a break. This pattern continues, generally moving to the right, but occasionally slightly left to go through a rock band.

The path can be a bit difficult to follow at times because the turn-offs up through the rock bands have been missed, leading to a dead end. In this case, turn around and find the correct line as there is a trail all the way.

Besides the numerous short 2-3m rock steps, there are two higher steps of 5-6m. The first looks difficult, but is easy although a bit awkward. (See the pic in the slide show.) The second is easy, but exposed and with a start that many find quite tricky. (See the pic in the slide show.) A rope may be advisable for this pitch.

Near the top, some interesting variations are possible. Pick what suits you. One finally pops out unexpectedly on the Jeep Track to the astonishment of any strollers who happen to be passing! The "proper" route continues on up above the Jeep Track to the summit of Bel Ombre, but often this is skipped as it does not add much to an enjoyable route.

There are several return options. The quickest is down the Jeep Track, but more interesting is to descend through the forest, or continue up the Jeep Track to the top and link up with Cecilia Ridge or Constantia Corner.