What a weekend, great success story. We went to an antique shop in Rosendal on Saturday afternoon and I found a book. 1st edition of Emil Holub "Sieben Jahre in Süd Afrika" (seven years in South Africa). Emil Holub, an Austrian explorer traveled Southern Africa from 1872 to 79, he went as far as Zambia and has many stories to tell. The books (two volumes) were printed in 1881 and set me back R625, it's worth it, these books are a treasure.
But I am getting off the subject, the hike was near Rosendal which is south of Senekal in the Freestate. After the usual start at about 15h00 we got to the hiking hut at about 17h30. A very basic place, no electricity, but otherwise comfortable.
Because of the heat we decided to try and start early and we actually managed an 8h00 start. Initially along and through some dongas with some fascinating erosion pillars and than along the cliffs looking at some overhangs and finally over a little mountain back to camp. On top of the hill a number of mini craters were noticed, most of them water filled. My theory is that those were vents spewing out mud and/or water. That must have been 70 million years ago when volcanism was at its peak in the area. But, of course, I could also be wrong. Here is the picture anyway.
Because of the early start we got back to camp as early as 14h00 and wondered what to do with the remainder of 
the afternoon. The suggestion to look at Rosendal was taken up by one car full of people. Rosendal could be described as a little sleepy village in the Eastern Freestate. In my opinion it is about to be discovered by the people of Jo'burg who wish to live in the country far away from the hussle and bussle. Property prices have shown a significant increase already, although property can still be considered very cheap. Where else can you pick up a house for R200 000, not even in Smithfield. And it is here that I found my treasure in the antique shop.
The next morning was not a hike, but rather a treasure hunt organised by the farmer. Group dynamics were very interesting to observe. I don't think we make a good team in a survivor game.