Destress on Melville Koppies

Let’s face it, this has been a difficult year for all.

Nature is always good medicine to just breathe again and relax, so why not explore Melville Koppies Nature Reserve and heritage site on a Sunday morning to renew yourself.

Open from 8am until 11.30am, you can now self-guide yourself along the many trails. No need to book.

You’ll be given a trail map at the entrance that is very easy to navigate and an information sheet. Just orientate yourself north and choose which trail you’d like to walk. The contour lines indicate the degree of difficulty. If they are far apart, the slope is gentle.

Close together and you’ll know you are in for some climbing.

Plan your walk to suit your needs. Choose the forest and river walk if it’s a hot day. If you want the views, you’ll have to take on the more difficult route and do some climbing.

All trail intersections are clearly marked with numbers. The information sheet highlights things to look out for.

See if you can spot the stone walling of the first farmers that lived on the koppies. One view site which has a clear view north where wild animals once roamed is the site of an ancient hunter gatherer camp where many Stone Age tools were found. And if you get there soon, you’ll still see the grass lily (Crinum graminicola) in bloom.

Please note:

Due to the pandemic, usual calendar of guided tours and hikes are temporarily suspended. You don’t have to plan ahead. Just arrive from 8am on Sunday morning and self-guide yourself and be out by 11.30am. Open every Sunday until December 20.

Secure parking at Marks Park and security on Melville Koppies provided. Cost is R80 for adults and R40 for learners (please try and bring exact amounts).

If you are a group of 10 or more, please EFT beforehand and email names and cell phones of your group to wendavid@mweb.co.za Phone 011 482 4797 for more details or see www.mk.org.za