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Drakensberg Caves & Huts Database
14
RATING

Sherry Cave (Old)

Location:

Garden Castle Wilderness Area

The cave is close to Wave Cave and Rob's Cave and about 100 metres off the main path up Hidden Valley. It is very easy to pass by without noticing, and you have to keep a sharp lookout for it.

Co-ordinates (WGS84 / dd mm.mmm):

S29 46.524 E29 10.883 at 2010 metres

Description:

Accommodation: 2

The cave is formed by a very large, flat boulder, which tumbled down from the cliffs above and partially covered a small stream. It is likely that herd boys levelled the inside, built the low stone walls and made it habitable during summer storms. However, the stream eventually flooded and eroded their handiwork. There is now only level sleeping space for about 4 hikers (the KZN Wildlife map claims 12, which is wildly optimistic!).


How two caves in such close proximity to one another got to be named Sherry Cave is a mystery! The group that named the new Sherry Cave must have been unaware of the existence of the old one! Doubtless both have a similar reason for their name!



1
COMFORT

The two sleeping areas are cramped but will provide good shelter from the elements. The floor of the cave is composed mostly of pink clay.


3
WATER

The small stream which eventually damaged the cave still runs through the lower part of the overhang, so water is close at hand. However, it may become muddy during heavy downpours. Better quality water can be fetched from the Mzimude River, which is less than 200 metres away over relatively easy ground.


3
POOLS

There are no pools at the cave, but plenty in the Mzimude River below it.


4
SHELTER

This old Sherry Cave has an extensive roof that will keep out the rain, but beware of the stream in torrential downpours! The low stone walls and low roof make for a cosy environment which should protect the occupants from wind.


3
OUTLOOK

There are some fine views towards the escarpment, only slightly obscured by the lower foothills and ridges which run up to meet it. Hidden Valley itself is quite picturesque.

Bookings:

+27 (033) 7011823

Contributors:


Last updated: 2009-08-18 11:03:19 | Report Listing Report Listing
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