Marloth Nature Reserve is behind Swellendam, up against the so-called “Clock Peaks” of the Langeberg that tower over the town. The four summits range in altitude from 1100m to 1450m. Legend has it, transport riders hauling yellowwood from George to Cape Town told the time according to the position of the sun above these landmarks as they approached Swellendam.
Marloth has numerous day trails for hikers of all ages and abilities, but it’s those peaks that have long called my name: I can’t count the number of times I’ve driven along the N2 and gazed longingly at the rugged skyline to the north. In November 2023, I finally realised a dream…
Only two of the peaks, Twaalfuurkop (1428m) and Tienuurkop (1195m), have marked trails to their summits. Both looked dauntingly steep, so after some deliberation we opted for the lower and more accessible Tienuurkop.
After signing in at the reserve office, we drove to the parking area for the Duiwelsbos waterfall hike. (If you’re a glutton for punishment and you want a longer hike, you can park at the office and walk to this point, adding another couple of kilometres each way.)
From the parking area, the path goes steeply up the mountain, partly shaded by tall fynbos. Marloth Nature Reserve is named after the botanist Rudolf Marloth, who also lends his name to Marloth Park next to the Kruger. Marloth is most famous for his six-volume series called The Flora of South Africa, which was published between 1913 and 1932.
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