Eagles Nest Loop from Constantia Nek - (Constantia/ Cape Town)

This quick and very easy trail is a great option for a sunset or sunrise walk or for anyone who is limited for time but wants to get a short trail done. Views from the Eagles nest are spectacular in all directions in part thanks to the drive up to Constantia Nek as it gains most of the altitude. The trail then only gains about 200m to the rocky outcrop but you will find yourself relatively high up compared to the surrounding Southern Suburbs of Cape Town. From the trig beacon at the summit views of the sea around Klein Leeuwkop (Little Lions Head) as well as Muizenberg and all of false bay to Strand and Kogelberg are clearly visible. Constantiaberg dominates the view to the South whilst East behind the city lights one can spot the Helderberg, Somerset Sneeuwkop, Haelkop and the Jonkerhoeks Twins to name a few, Simonsberg and any peaks to the North are out of view thanks the the northern slope and higher Klassenkop dominating the sky to North of Eagles Nest. Overall this trail is very short and easy and can probably be attempted by complete novices, children, and the elderly alike. They might complain slightly on the last few meters to summit as it gets somewhat steeper but it is very achievable by even basic hiking standards. The only exposure is just South of the trig beacon at the summit the cliff is rather exposed and its quite the long drop to the slope below. Take caution and be careful of gusts of wind and one's footing when exploring near the cliff edge. This trail done in its recorded direction initially following the jeep track up takes most of the steep incline out of the equation while adding some distance and providing a quick route down to the parking lot. Please take care after dark and practice all standard safety precautions one would normally do when hiking in South Africa and more specifically Cape Town as hikers are unfortunately easy targets for criminals. Rather leave which valuables you can at home. Safety precautions aside don't let the small chance of an unfortunate encounter stop you from attempting this trail or any other trail in Cape Town or South Africa for that matter.