From The Shadow Of Newlands Stadium, To The Sumptuous...

Cape Town, South Africa

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Posted:  Monday, September 1
Runner:  Frank McShane

From the shadow of Newlands stadium, to the sumptuous suburb of Bishops Court, through the famous gardens of Kirstenbosch, and the rugged trails of Celia Forest, there lays a challenge for all who delight in the sport of running, walking or simply airing the dog. Skirting the foothills of Skeleton Gorge, broad avenues and spreading Chestnut trees provide the perfect landscape and unpolluted environment for those who wish to explore the limits of strength and endurance. Within these tranquil heights where wild animals roamed, and wagon wheels rolled centuries ago, endless hills lead the way to regions beyond the banks of the Liesbeek River and the vynbos fields of our fairest Cape. Should you choose to begin your run from the top gate entrance to Kirstenbosch, it is best to follow the gravel path, where fields of Restios and Protea flank the road on either side. You will need a good pair of lungs, as the route winds steeply through dense shrub until it reaches a horizontal plain where a spectacular view of the Cape flats and southern suburbs will help you catch your breath for the rugged road ahead. Leaving the hills behind, the undulating trail unfolds through shallow river beds and tall green pines, with striking views of Constantia valley, the white washed shores of False Bay, and the shimmering blue mountains of the Helderberg.At a point along the track, in a shady nook of the forest, icy water tumbles freely from a subterranean creek to a tranquil pool, then fades into the deep grassy ravine below. It is the water only stop on this route, is perfectly drinkable and most refreshing. Beyond that oasis, the trail leads through clusters of cork trees and ancient yellow woods, until it rises to the upper contour path, then winds back to the evergreen slopes of Nursery Ravine. There is no need to rush this phase of the journey, for time bears no consequence, and the path is strewn with bared roots and loose sandstone. It is better to stroll, and absorb the magnificent spectacle of man's commitment to the colossal task of preserving our precious heritage of indigenous flora rarely found in other parts of the world.

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