The morning before the OTTER Challenge Prologue offered an excellent opportunity to scramble down into the upper reaches of the Salt River above Nature’s Valley. The initial rocky course soon gouges into the ridge line to form fern pools up to 10m deep, with slippery waterfall scrambles along smooth rock. The tree ferns are spectacular, and this is a hike mission for those with a keen sense of adventure.

My access point was from the gorgeous Lily Pond Country Lodge, situated a couple of kms off the N2 on the approach road to Nature’s Valley. If you’re looking for quality accommodation and gourmet food in this part of the Garden Route, look no further. Tony, Maria and their staff made our stay during the OTTER Shoot incredibly special, so this is undoubtedly an establishment I will return to.

Do yourself a favour and go check out both the Salt River canyon and Lily Pond Country Lodge – neither will disappoint!

Click here to view the pics