Ruiterbos: Skaapplaas

Skaapplaas

Ruiterbos

Rock overhangs are excellent shelters for indigenous Rock Art. Animal and human figures, painted in red and yellow, remind one of the super-natural trances experienced by medicine men and rainmakers a 1000 to 7000 years ago on this unspoiled spot.

Famous Birds

More than fifty different bird species have been identified along the route. Some of the best-known names are tabulated below.

Number	English common name	Afrikaans common name
83	White Stork	Wit Ooievaar
94	Hadeda Ibis	Hadeda
102	Egyptian Goose	Kolgans
118	Secretary Bird	Sekretarisvoël
149	Steppe Buzzard	Bruin Jakkalsvoël
195	Cape Francolin	Kaapse Fisant
208	Blue Crane	Bloukraanvoël
451	African Hoopoe	Hoephoep
710	Paradise Flycatcher	Paradysvlieëvanger
775	Malachite Sunbird	Jangroentjie

A cosy self-catering cottage for 6 people in the unspoiled natural environment of a farm where moonlight nights filled with the common noises of the African veld offer a unique experience. This includes a small "boma" for a braai or campfire. Firewood is available at the farmhouse.

Also available a 6-8 bed bush hut close to waterfall and rock pools.

Registered member of Mossel Bay Guest House Guild.

CONTACT INFORMATION & BOOKINGS

Hannes and Anmalise van Rensburg
Tel: +27 (0) 44 631 0035
Website: www.trailinfo.co.za
www.scanary.com/frikkiec
E-mail: Skaapplaas

Accommodation

Last Modified: February 10, 2008

	Skaapplaas
	The Skaapplaas hiking trail is an accredited hiking trail of approximately 10 km long and takes between 5 and 6 hours to complete.
		It passes through an indigenous stinkwood forest with tree ferns, tranquil mountain streams and is a bird watcher’s paradise. The cool forest breeze is a refreshing experience on a summer day. Yellowwood trees of some 600 years old have made this their home.
	The surrounding hills are covered with fynbos and host the famous King Protea. Panoramic views of Mossel Bay and surrounds are not uncommon along the trail. From the hills the trail descends to the Kouma riverbed where one admires the waterfalls and enjoys a cool swim in the natural pools or relaxes one’s feet in the refreshingly cold river. Tranquil mountain streams are typical features along the route. There is ample space for a braai or a picnic. One could pitch a tent, lit a campfire and enjoy the African night sky.