This trail is not for die-hard hikers who want to truly motor en route, compass and map in hand, hell-bent on physical exertion with the end objective in mind. That would be missing the point entirely. The GMT is a series of long walks as opposed to hikes, and although the longest (18 kms) is not to be sniffed at, the pace is steady but leisurely, with plenty of stops made to interpret what you see, and the style is engaging, fun and informative. Start out early in the morning to beat the heat and get in for a sit-down lunch beneath the trees, with time to swim and laze in peaceful gardens before an early-evening wine tasting. If you are someone who simply wants to get their head down and yomp at pace, for whom the hike is everything, this probably isn’t for you.

The first two nights are spent at Porcupine Hills, a delightful, small olive farm in a beautiful rural setting, tucked away between private nature reserves on the north eastern side of the Groenlandberg – black eagles nest on the red-rock crags which overlook the homestead.

The third and fourth nights are spent at Wildekrans Country House, an historic and characterful 1811 homestead featuring a rambling country garden. This lovely old home has a private collection of South African contemporary art and antique furniture – the atmosphere is relaxed, quirky and ancient, all rolled into one.

Trails are run for up to 10 people and for a minimum of 6. Private groups are the main focus, but mixed groups are run on demand and according to availability – if a trail week is open, it’s possible to book on as a couple. A mixed group will then be formed around you and these usually fill.

The GMT is run all year, except June and July. It can get very hot in peak summer months, so aim for the South African spring or autumn if you can. The best months are September and October, which are wonderful for flowers and the trail tends to be more available and less in demand, despite this being a good time. Note that trails run in December and January do not use Porcupine Hills as a base for the first two nights, so you’ll spend all four nights at Wildekraans.

All trails start on a Monday (arrive at Porcupine Hills from 16h00, so you’ll set off from Cape Town, if driving from there, after lunch) and end after lunch at Bot River on a Friday. An alternative is to do a tailored programme from Wildekrans, eg, a day or two walking with some wine tasting; dates are more flexible, and you’ll be completely private.