WALKS PLANNED FOR 2016

February – Explore the Hangklip Ecological Corridor and hear its story with Allan Heydor
Saturday 20 February
Meet at the Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens at 09h00.

Explore breathtaking views and outstanding natural beauty in the Hangklip Ecological Corridor. Hear its rich human story from Allan Heydorn, the role of the WWF-SA, the vision and generosity of the donors who made it possible, the dreams and sorrows that make this area special and visit the memorials that quietly commemorate their vision.

To join this February walk in the mountains between Betty’s Bay and Pringle Bay, meet at the Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens to share transport to the start of the trail.

Sturdy footwear, a hat, sunblock, snacks and liquid refreshments are all necessary for this moderately challenging walk. Bring a field guide to fynbos flowers and binoculars.

Leaders:        Allan Heydorn, renowned conservationist and former CEO of the WWF-SA

                       Tim Attwell (082 343 2501)

                       Barbara Jenman (082 338 4109)

 

March – Coastal splendour around Grootbaai (aka Moonlight Bay), Maasbaai and Hangklip lighthouse
Saturday, 19 March 2016
Meet at the Drosters Centre in Pringle Bay at 09h00.

Coastal paths, with little or no steep terrain, take us through three veld types and richly varied vegetation. This is one of the few areas where Kogelberg Sandstone Fynbos, usually found high on mountain slopes, sweeps down to sea level. Overberg Dune Strandveld showcases a startling variety of small trees and shrubs and Cape Seashore Vegetation boasts its resilient succulent plant communities. We’ll be especially looking for the spectacular candelabra flower, Brunsvigia orientalis, on the sandy flats.

Hangklip Peak looms impressively above the pathways where the rocky shore is interspersed with delightful inlets, rock pools and small beaches. Hopefully the tide will not be too high for us to see 2000-year-old Khoi fish traps. The area featured in ‘the secret war’ during World War 2 as host to one of a dozen or so testing stations around the world for the then new-fangled radar. Their brief was especially to spot German U-boats threatening Allied shipping passing around the Cape.

Sturdy footwear, a hat, sunblock, snacks and liquid refreshments are necessary for this moderate walk. Bring a field guide to fynbos and binoculars.

Leaders:          Barbara Jenman (082 338 4109)

 Tim Attwell (082 343 2501)