Empisine Nature Reserve

Toti Ramblers Nola Muller Toti Ramblers 401 Gordon House Gordon Road Amanzimtoti 4126 Fax:      086 656 2504 E mail: myhaven@skytec.co.za Cell: 084 415 8123 11 August 2009

Walking update…

UMDONI PARK…

13 People turned out for the Umdoni Park Ramble which took place in absolutely perfect weather.  The new section of the trail which we walked took us along the pipeline towards the sea and was interesting as it ran beside the river bed which was picturesque and fairly dry but I imagine could be spectacular in the rainy season.  We also passed a dam with a very substantial wall holding back the water, which we did not see on our previous excursion. 

We ended up doing about 6km but unfortunately my pedometer ceased to work close to the end – so there is no accurate distance to record.

After sitting in the shade of the trees, outside the Environmental centre, having our coffee and sandwiches a number of us continued on to the TC Robertson Nature Reserve to see the Arts display which was on show.  It was a nice ending to a perfect walk.

Welcome to the following new members:

Katjie Botha, Claire Hannington, Elvira and Neil Harris who joined us on the day.  We look forward to many happy hours rambling together.

NEXT OUTING ON THE 23rd AUGUST 2009 – EMPISINI NATURE RESERVE

One of our first walks was to the Empisini Nature Reserve where we had a lovely walk whilst encountering crab along the pathway leading into the reserve and plenty of spider webs while walking through the forest.  We have decided that a return to this spot is needed. 

For those who do not know anything about Empisini, it is situated on the South Coast 50 km south of Durban and 5 minutes from Umkomaas.  Looping through the coastal forest are several gentle hiking trails, demarcated picnic sites and overnight cabins.  Bird life is prolific.

Cost:

WESSA run this reserve and whilst there is no entrance fee at the gate, there is an honesty box on the site where a donation can be left.  I however have their banking details and will deposit R50 from our funds into their account for the day, as I did after our last outing there.

Directions:

Turn left towards Umkomaas and then left again towards Saiccor.  One Km further on turn left into Empisini.

We will be walking – rain or shine – so look forward to seeing you all there.

Please note: With the hotter weather approaching we have decided to start our walk half an hour earlier.  So we will be meeting at Lords and Legends between 07:30 and 08:00 to organize the lift club – or meet inside the gates at Empisini at 08:30.