March 2021

Tweede Kruis (Second Cross) is an easy to moderate hike, suitable for most people. There are some relatively steep uphill sections along dirt roads, and single track paths, but they are not technical in nature. There is one short rocky section towards the top of the hike, which may require some scrambling, but if you take it slow and easy you will be fine.

Park at the university grounds, between the rugby fields and athletics track (ie between the Danie Craven Stadium and the Coetzenberg Stadium), and then make your away across the rugby fields in the direction of the mountain. Walk up the stairs at the end of the field and turn left when you get onto the dirt road. A little further up you will come across a dam on your right, if it is on your left you are on the wrong path. Once you have passed the dam the dirt road turns into a steep uphill, which can be broken into 2 sections. 

The first section is about 300m long and takes you up to the First Cross. Once you’ve caught your breathe keep right and continue along the same dirt road and follow it up to the top. When the dirt road bends to the left and levels out, you know you are close to the top. You will find an open grassy section, which is between the forest on your left and the fynbos and mountain on your right. It may not look like it, but you are now almost half way up to Tweede Kruis. 

Look for a path on your right which leads through the fynbos and makes its way up the mountain. After a few hundred meters you will come to a fence, where you will need to turn right, if you turn left you will make your way back down. Handy tip…dont turn left. After turning right, follow the trail as it zig zags up the mountain. At the 4th bend in the path you will come across a steep sandy section, with loose stone and rock. Some caution may be required, as you will most likely need to use your hands to get up this part of the trail. However it is nothing to worry about, just take it slowly. Once you are past this section you are almost at the top. There are a few bumps to get over, but soon you will see the cross. It appears as if its still far away, but the terrain eases off and you get to the top a lot quicker than you expected. 

Once at the top, make your way to the cross, take some pictures and enjoy the views of the Simonsberg Mountain and Stellenbosch below. Please take all litter back down with you. We have noticed several large groups on the weekends who leave litter and plastic bottles behind. This is baffling and totally unacceptable! 

When its time to leave follow the same route back down, and be wary of the steep section. Its ok if you need to shuffle down on your bum, we’ve seen plenty people do it. Rather be safe than sorry. Also be aware that the dirt road that leads down to the first cross can be slippery, so shoes with adequate grip are preferable. Once back at the car, head into Stellenbosch town for a coffee or well earned breakfast!