A meandering walk in the Fernkloof Nature reserve with beautiful views for most of the upper part of the walk. The cache is hidden in a tranquil Boekenhouts Forest and the cool shade provides welcome relief on a hot day. A stream runs through the forest providing water most of the year.
Boekenhouts trees are called Cape Beech trees in English. The Latin name for the genus, Rapanea, is derived from a Guinean word meaning "dark bark", but this only occurs in older specimens. The grey bark or sometimes roots are traditionally used medicinally for respiratory problems, stomach, muscular and heart complaints.
The bark contains tannin and is used as iNtelezi (a charm to protect against evil spirits) by Nguni people. The wood is hard and used for furniture-making and violins.
Familiarise yourself with the map of the Fernkloof Nature reserve in the parking area at S 34°23.669 E019°15.969 or for an online map available for download click here. Make your way to S 34°23.515 E019°16.226 on the saddle near Lemoenkop. There are quite a few ways to get there and you may want to use different routes on the way up from those on the way down. From there follow the sign to "Boekenhoutb.". There is a bench at S34°23.517 E019°16.319 at the beginning of "Adder ladder", if you feel the need for a little rest. From there simply follow the scenic path to the cache.
The small secret the cache holds is the coordinates of a nearby cache, "Fernkloof Vista". They can be found on the back of the log sheet.
Thanks to Tomtwogates and BattleratandPussycat for the photos!
