Location:
Vergelegen Wilderness Area, lower southern Drakensberg. This basalt cave is situated at the base of a prominent dolerite outcrop on a spur on the north side of the valley near the bottom of Nhlangeni Pass, on the opposite side of the Nhlangeni River to Small Cave. It provides better, more comfortable shelter than Small Cave, but can accommodate fewer people.
GPS Coordinates: WGS 84
S29 30.185 E29 19.863 at 2220 metres (Landlubbers)
Description:
Bridge Cave is relatively deep compared with its entrance, and the stone wall helps to provide a feeling of cosiness. It is reached via a short, steep incline across a small stream which is a convenient source of water and also has some small pools.
Comfort: 3/5
The sleeping area is nice and level, but in summer the rear of the cave has several drips which make the floor damp. There is a built-in bench at the entrance where one can sip a sun-downer while looking out towards the escarpment.
Water: 5/5
The stream below the cave provides a reliable and convenient source of water.
Pools: 3/5
There are some small pools in the stream just below the cave. The Nhlangeni River is only about 150 metres away over not-too-difficult terrain, and provides better bathing options for those who might like to do some further exploration.
Shelter: 3/5
The stone wall at the entrance to the cave lies almost under the lip of the roof, so rain can easily be driven into the front half of the sleeping area. During the wet season when the back half is also damp from drips, the cave is not likely to be suitable for more than 2 people at best.
Outlook: 4/5
The cave looks out over a grassy spur towards the escarpment and the huge and impressive cut-back which forms Nhlangeni Pass.
Overall Rating: 18/25
History:
Unknown. There is no bridge across the stream below the cave, so perhaps the discoverers played bridge there instead!