After a hectic week of hustle and bustle, early mornings and late nights in the city, the weekend sometimes calls for a wind-down.
For this Es-Cape Route, we swapped the busy streets for tranquility and headed to Newlands Forest - about 10 minutes' drive away from the city.
A freshly brewed cup of coffee from That Greek Guy is the perfect companion on your unofficial adventure. Warm hands, warm coffee, and the sounds of the forest are already a win.
The sounds of the car engines disappear as you meander along the Contour Path via Newlands Stream, replaced by the water running in a nearby stream between the birdsong and rustling trees.
The perfect place to pause
The stream weaves through the forest, and then comes the exciting part - a rocky path down into the stream, where rocks are flat and tall enough to sit in the water, sit and finish your coffee, or simply just sit and do the least while the stream splashes around you. Picture perfect, right?
You'll hear other walkers and happy dogs on the trail nearby, making it peaceful without feeling too remote.
If you're visiting on a warmer day, you'll definitely want to dip your feet into the stream.
If you are not feeling too adventurous, benches along the way or tree stumps around the stream posing as sitting spots are equally tranquil, or if you need to get some steps in, continue along the Newlands stream, or choose from two other trails - Contour Path via Skelmkoppad and Fernwood Track (1.5 hours) or Contour Path via Middelpad Road (1hr15min).
The adventure in the mountains is perfect for a reset, a short distance from the city, a little walk through the trees, a splash in the stream, hiking for all levels, or a snack break surrounded by nature. And yes, your four-legged friends are welcome, provided that dog walkers purchase an annual My Activity Permit from SanParks and adhere to the rules.
Es-Cape Route Verdict
Cost: Free; however, coffee is for sale at That Greek Guy, situated at the entrance of the forest.
Highlight: The stream that you can actually walk in without getting wet if you don't want to.
Best for: Anyone and everyone who loves nature, as there are a variety of activities.
Top Tip: Take a little picnic blanket, a towel, and some slippers or sandals if you plan to explore the stream.
Es-Cape Route approved? Definitely! This place is a gem. There will always be something new to discover, something else to go back for, or a space to just breathe.