andnbsp;
The Cumberland Nature Reserve is run by John and Stella Behn
assisted by their son Garry. It is a
delightful area covering about 400 hectares which is close to
Pietermaritzburg. The day entrance fee
is R5 per person (fees are normally deposited in an honesty box but on this day
John Behn was on hand to collect our money) and camping costs R20 per person
which includes the entrance fee.
Campsite facilities consist of two toilets, two washbasins
and two showers as well as braai facilities and a place for a fire circled by
stones. Wood is provided nearby. A hut
can also be reserved for R60 per person per night.
The reserve can be reached easily from PMB by taking the
road towards Bishopstowe and then past Eastwood towards Table Mountain, later
passing the Table Mountain turn-off before taking the left turn along the D408
for about 7km.
andnbsp;
Graham Cullinan was our able leader for the day and he
assembled us all at about 09h00 at a lovely picnic site inside the reserve (at
which we would later enjoy our braai).
Our total number of hikers, including several visitors was 33 – what a
turn out – is this a record?
andnbsp;
Graham
first led us on this beautiful day around the top of the gorge for magnificent
views towards the Umgeni River, then passing the top of the waterfall on the
Rietspruit Stream before descending through indigenous bush for quite a way,
all of us taking in the fresh air, but perspiring quite a lot. After a bit of rock hopping we eventually
reached the bottom of another big waterfall at the foot of which was an
inviting large pool. We had a break
for refreshments at this great spot and many members of our party could not
resist a lovely cooling swim (even if some were fully clothed).
andnbsp;
After a rest we were soon on our way back hiking up hill
towards the picnic spot, working up very healthy appetites. Unfortunately on the way back, Nita, one of
our visitors, slipped and cut her leg on a steel spike which was sticking out
above ground. However we had our medical kit and Brenda, Grethe andamp; Co soon
professionally treated and bandaged the wound. (I am pleased to report that Nita has fully recovered and has
been on another exciting hike since then).
On reaching our lovely picnic spot, cold drinks and beers were enjoyed
whilst getting the fires going for a great social braai. What a nice way to end a hike!!
There are several lovely picnic sites in the reserve
complete with braai facilities and even toilets. Quite a lot of game can be seen in the reserve as well as many
birds.
Trails
lead off in several directions (there are trail markings) and both small and
large waterfalls can be visited.
andnbsp;
Thanks Graham (andamp; Grethe) for your able and caring
leadership andamp; a very enjoyable day.
andnbsp;
Keith Ashton
andnbsp;