Vredehoek Quarry and Tin Mine

On the lower slopes of Devils Peak is the Vredehoek quarry (officially known as the Murray and Stewart Quarry)  It is at the abandoned tin mine, which can be reached through an old tunnel. The area is great for rock climbing or mountain biking. If you park your car at the top of Chelmsford Road in the parking area, you can then walk towards the boom, turn left along the dirt road, and 100 meters further, you will see the path leading off to the right. The site is derelict, and the tunnels are falling apart. The area is strewn with loose stones and loose rusty beams.

 The mine was started in 1911 by the Vredehoek Tin Company, and it employed about 100 men. On 16^th January 1912, the Cape Argus reported that tin was being mined from a shaft 180 feet deep. Tracks for the cocopans were laid. The stone ore-crushing platforms and concrete ore-washing troughs can be seen alongside a stream. A second shaft and adit are well hidden behind a stone wall. Yet only about 4 tons of ore concentrate were extracted from the mine. The site was then used as a granite and stone quarry by the construction firm Murray and Stewart. This continued until the 1930s. but was closed because residents complained about the noise of the blasting.

The quarry is a great spot for hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Climbing into the tunnel can be a bit challenging as the entrance is only about one metre high. Wild shrubbery is tall and thick in places, and the slopes of the stream are steep and dangerous. It is a good idea to stay on the paths.  If you move through the 20-metre-long tunnel, you will come across a pool that even has fish and some frogs in it. You will also be greeted with a magnificent view of the city bowl.

Do not hike alone and wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be slippery and is covered with loose stones.

Park at the top of Chelmsford Road in the dirt parking area.  Walk to the boom, turn left and walk along the dirt road. Enjoy the view from there. After 100 meters, take the path leading off to the right.