Monks Cowl
Hikes in Monks Cowl area. Monks Cowl is the gateway to some of the most magnificent mountain Wilderness areas in South Africa. Taking its name from the distinctive mountain between Champagne Castle and Cathedral Peak, Monks Cowl marks the access to the Mlambonja and Mdedelelo mountain Wilderness areas.

Cleo's Pool Hike
This is best approached from the top of Berghaven cottages although it can also be accessed from the Heritage Walk route detailed above. Take the well marked path from the top of Bergview moving southwards into the valley. The path is very steep and you will eventually reach a stream and Cleo?s pool. There is a small c ...
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Drakensberg Sun to Blue Grotto Pool (return via Barry's...
This is a great 3 hour (6,6km circular route) moderate walk through an indigenous forest to a magnificent grotto with waterfall and pool. The water can be cold as not too much sun shines into the pool.
After the pool head up the hill to Barry's Grave. Dick Barry was one of the early mountaineering pioneers of the area ...
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Drakensberg Sun to Cleo's Pools
An easy hike starting at Drakensberg Sun.
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Drakensberg Sun to Fern Forest
An easy family hike starting at Drakensberg Sun of 4.3km in total distance.
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Gray's Pass
Gray's Pass can be described as great gain for little pain. The pass itself is quite short and is situated in the Monks Cowl area, its still however a difficult hike.
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Ship's Prow Pass (South)
Ship's Prow South Pass is the advised route option, the North Fork has had rockfalls in the past and is very dangerous.
This is a long pass and tops out at 3292m, the highest pass in the Drakensberg.
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Sterkspruit Falls
An easy walk to the falls starting at the Monks Cowl entrance. Take the well marked path down to the falls. 1 to 2 hours in total time returning back to Monks Cowl entrance.
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Sterkspruit Falls and Nandi Falls
A scenic 8km circular hike to Sterkspruit Falls and Nandi's Falls with a total elevation gain during the hike of 330m.
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The Sphinx Hike
A moderate walk from Monks Cowl of 2.4km and elevation of 312m to the Sphinx passing Crystal falls on the way. The views are lovely once reaching the Sphinx.
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