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21 RATING | Gorge Cave |
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Location:
This cave is situated near the upper end of the Pholela River as it exits a narrow Gorge below Masubasuba Pass. It is very near Spectacle Cave but should not be confused with the small rock shelter just below that cave. The best approach to Gorge Cave is to head up the Pholela River towards the point where the path from Fingall's Rock crosses the river. If you face down-river from somewhere near this crossing, you should be able to see the cave nestled into the right-hand bank, about 5 metres above the river. The cave is immediately upstream from a very distinctive rock arch over the river. In winter it can be approached from the downstream side via this arch. While the cave is high above the river and quite safe from flooding, special care must be exercised when approaching it in summer, because this involves clambering over some large, smooth boulders next to what could be a raging torrent.
Co-ordinates (WGS84 / dd mm.mmm):
S29 38.554 E29 19.575 at 2041 metres
Description:
Accommodation: 2
The map suggests that Gorge Cave can accommodate only 2 people, but it does have space - at a squeeze - for either 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 small children.
Unknown, but the name matches its location near the bottom end of the gorge it overlooks.
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4 COMFORT | The floor of the cave is nearly level, and consists of soft river sand with some protruding bedrock splitting the sleeping area into two sections. The only disadvantages are that it may be a bit dusty and there is barely headroom for seated adults. In high summer some may find the thunderous noise of the river disturbing, but it is a safe distance below the cave. |
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5 WATER | The cave is less than 10 metres from the Pholela River. |
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4 POOLS | There are several pools in the river right next to the cave, and upstream and downstream from it. The large boulders are perfect for sun worshippers, although the depth of the valley at this point reduces the length of time they may spend sunbathing. |
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5 SHELTER | Gorge Cave keeps its occupants bone dry in even the worst summer thunderstorm. Even the wind which may roar down the gorge is barely noticeable from inside the cave. |
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3 OUTLOOK | The cave gives one a sense of coziness. Even though it is quite shut in, the gorge, rock arch and river have a special appeal. The Watcher - a balancing rock shaped like a baboon's head - is clearly visible from the entrance to the cave. One may also visit Spectacle Cave, Pholela Cave and Fingall's Rock from Gorge Cave, so there are plenty of opportunities to explore. |
Bookings:
+27 (033) 7020831
Contributors:
Last updated: 2009-08-14 10:54:55 | Report Listing
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