NIEU-BETHESDA NEWS - Last Saturday, a group of 24 outdoor enthusiasts set off on a well-planned expedition to climb the iconic Compassberg - the mountain that holds the village of Nieu-Bethesda in its comforting arms.
Protruding from the Sneeuberg range at an impressive 2502 metres, Compassberg, or Spitskop as it is known to locals is the highest free-standing peak in South Africa.
Lynne Minnaar is no stranger to the mountain and has climbed it many times.
In her efficiently effervescent way, she gathered together a good number of enthusiasts who had always wanted to climb the mountain. She coerced well versed local farmer, Peet van Heerden to lead the group - an essential addition to the expedition, as the mountain can be treacherous in parts, and the way up is not totally obvious to the first time climber. Having been granted permission by farm owner Brenda James, the group set off early Saturday morning in jovial spirits.
The Compassberg climb is described as moderate to difficult. The route is exposed in parts and marked by small cairns which are sometimes removed by baboons or wind – the route is not always obvious.
The last hour is a rocky scramble over huge chock-stones and not easy. There is no water on the mountain at all. It is essential that climbers come well prepared both physically and mentally.
Locals know that if their washing is blowing on the line in Nieu-Bethesda, that one should seriously reconsider climbing the mountain, as wind-speeds will be much stronger up there.
Last Saturday proved this to be true. The weather was windy and freezing cold down in the valley. As the climbers ascended, it became more extreme, and conditions became invigoratingly tough. Some said that they felt they were being blown over, and shards of ice made some of the rocky footholds treacherous. But the group was determined. Climbing sensibly, most managed to summit and soak in the magnificent 360° view from the trig beacon at the top.
There is a box of memories and logbooks tucked away on the crest, which also houses some ancient mirrors. According to a local website, it is said that during the Boer War a heliograph world record was set by British troops, who managed to send a message to Cockscomb just outside Port Elizabeth.
The icy gale did not make it comfortable to spend much time up there, and they soon began the difficult descent. Special mention must be made of young Bernard Louw (11), who clambered up with ease, accompanying his mum Dirkje. It was a tired but elated group who gathered at the Tennis Club in Nieu-Bethesda that evening.
With wind-chafed cheeks and achy limbs, they relaxed around the fire and told fantastic tales of an endorphin-filled day well spent in our magnificent surroundings.
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