Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve
Show your kids the magic of the forest in this small reserve in the folds of the Langeberg near the town of Heidelberg. Orange fungi grow on tree trunks like fairy steps, ferns slowly unfurl, and moss carpets the forest floor. (The bird hide even looks like Rapunzel’s tower…) Grootvadersbosch is indeed a special place: At 2,5 km², the afrotemperate forest is the largest remaining patch of its kind in these mountains.
Several short trails and loops zigzag through the forest, past streams, fallen trees and a stand of massive Californian redwoods planted more than a hundred years ago.
Get a map from the reception office. You know how fit your kids are – the distance you’ll walk depends on how much bribery and begging you’re up for on the day…
A combination of the Melkhoutpad, Redwoods Road and Stinkhoutsirkel includes several highlights. The Melkhoutpad goes past the glamping tents – start there. Pack a flask of tea and rusks and take an early morning walk to the nearby bird hide. Watch the sunrise over the Langeberg and the forest canopy.
The path descends, crosses a stream and joins up with Redwoods Road – turn left and stroll down to the Californian redwoods. (If your kids want to know why they’re here, see the Fun Facts sidebar.)
Go past the redwoods and turn onto the Stinkhoutsirkel. This narrow trail runs through one of the most scenic parts of the forest. A tree toppled over and fell across the kloof – adventurous kids (and parents with healthy knees) can test their balancing skills.
The path also goes back past another bird hide. Just manage expectations beforehand… Focus on how epic the structure is that towers over the forest floor – it’s 9 m high! But don’t expect a scene from Rio at the top. Forest birds are known for their shyness. If you’re lucky, you might see an African paradise flycatcher or a Knysna woodpecker.
