PAARL, SOUTH AFRICA - If you’re itching to step into those hiking boots this summer, 12 top Western Cape hiking routes of South Africa are now more accessible than ever before.

In a well-received book just released journalist-adventurer Fiona McIntosh you can now find in-depth descriptions of what you can expect along the way on 12 trails covering the Cederberg and Swellendam mountains, as well as coastal routes in the De Hoop and West Coast nature reserves.

According to reviews of Top 12 Hiking Trails of the Western Cape the 12 trails cover all fitness levels, with difficulty ratings included on the detailed contour maps for all the trails. These maps show lots of useful information and even include GPS points for overnight camps.

McIntosh, who has authored a number of outdoor and travel publications, includes information on trails such as the Cederberg Heritage Route, the West Coast Crayfish Trail, Whale Trail (De Hoop Nature Reserve), Boland Hiking Trail, Hoerikwaggo Tented Classic (Table Mountain), Swellendam Hiking Trail, Postberg Wild Flower Trail, Oystercatcher Trail (Mossel Bay), and the Otter and Tsitsikamma Trails.

As many of these trails are very popular Western Cape trails, it is often necessary to book long in advance.

Apart from trails and hiking information, the book offers details on nearby biking routes, including riding distances and times.

Top 12 Hiking Trails of the Western Cape by Fiona McIntosh was published by MapStudio.

For more information about local accommodation, including hiking, biking, whale watching and many other Western Cape experiences visit Kontrei.co.za, where you will get regular updates about local facts and opportunities.