Experiences Nature Experiences
An abundance of flora and fauna, butterflies, birds, waterfalls, rivers and scenic dams grace the natural beauty of the eScape Route.
For those who love succulents, a visit to Bucksy is a must. Situated just off the Friendly N6, approx 20km north of Stutterheim, Sylvia and Buck Steinmetz have an amazing assortment of plants. With more than 50 different varieties, both indigenous and exotic, stepping into the hothouse is like entering another world.
Sylvia, who originally hails from Switzerland, admits that succulents are her absolute passion. Having lived in the Thomas River area since 2004, she has gained incredible knowledge of the local flora and has added several species of Aloe to her collection. She is fascinated how the succulent has a specialized anatomy that allows them to survive drought or lack of light. Storing moisture in their fleshy stems, leaves or roots, they can survive with little water. In really adverse conditions, many simply cease growing and remain dormant until the next rains. She also tells of how the Aloe Striata which bears a bright orange stripe on its leaf will lose the colour within a few hours when moved from inland to the coast and how succulents which store their water in tuberous or swollen roots are likely to suffer less damage from veldt fires or grazing animals.
Step into a different world, one unspoiled by man and revel in the natural beauty of the Khologha Forest in Stutterheim. This pristine indigenous forest is not only one of the foremost points of beauty along the eScape Route, but is the second largest natural forest in South Africa after the Knysna Forest. With an estimated 1% of land remaining under indigenous forest, it is a safe haven to many rare and endangered species.
A choice of three beautiful walks start and end at the sheltered picnic area which is well equipped with braai places, tables and benches, a lappa and safe parking. The sound of trickling water constantly follows the Blue Route which is the shortest route. Crossing streams and rising quite sharply in some places, the path meanders for 1.5km leading to 3 stunning waterfalls. In the drier winter months they flow gently, but after the summer rains they often form spectacular torrents. The 7km Yellow Route winds along sheltered paths to higher up the hillside. Passing two striking waterfalls along the way, the route then turns back downwards through a different habitat before arriving at the forestry road leading back to the car park and picnic site. For those wishing for a longer days walk, the Red Routes is a must. It twists and turns for 17km and commands some dramatic scenery with a magnificent view point mid way. Each route is clearly marked with coloured footprints.
This is because Stutterheim offers a world of different ecosystems and biomes in one district - lush Southern Mistbelt Forest, Amathole Montane and Mistbelt Grassland, Kei and Eastern Cape Escarpment Thicket. All these biomes exist within a short driving distance of the town and can be accessed by means of hiking trails and guided excursions. Each is home to some very special rare and endemic plants, birds and animals. The climate of the district is mild and benign – plentiful rainfall to sustain the lush forests and grassland, never too hot in summer or too cold in winter, with many glorious sunny days to explore the beauty at your doorstep.
The trout fisherman may enjoy this sport after making contact with the Stutterheim Trout Fishing Club and obtaining the necessary permits. At the North East end of the Dam is the Gubu Dam Caravan Park which has been established by the Department of Forestry. It is set in Idyllic surroundings amongst the trees; the walks in the forest from there are gentle and beautiful. No power boats are allowed on this dam but sailing and boating for pleasure are permitted.
These biomes are Southern Mistbelt Forest, Amathole Montane and Mistbelt Grassland, Kei and Eastern Cape Escarpment Thicket. Each of theses boasts rare and endemic birds.
The richness of the Flora and Fauna of Stutterheim and environs offers a feast for the eco-tourist and nature lover. Whether your interests are wild flowers, birds, butterflies or just hiking and exploring in breathtaking landscapes, the wealth of nature that you will experience in Stutterheim will astonish you.
This is because Stutterheim offers a world of different ecosystems and biomes in one district - lush Southern Mistbelt Forest, Amathole Montane and Mistbelt Grassland, Kei and Eastern Cape Escarpment Thicket.
Experience the magical serenity of the indigenous forest by foot. There are three marked walks available each of varying length and difficulty. These are open to the public and can be accessed all year round.
All the walks begin and end at the Kologha picnic site. The picnic site offers braai facilities, picnic tables and a small outdoor information centre.
Although restricted to forests, the Cape Parrot is a food nomadic and moves between forest patches. It is active for several hours after dawn and before sunset, usually circling over the forest and calling loudly. The flock size varies from singletons to groups of 5-6 birds.
The Cape Parrot is a monogamous; the bird finds and breeds with one partner for the rest of its life. It’s mating season is between August and February and the hen lays between 2 to 5 eggs. The eggs are incubated for approximately 29 days and the hatchling stays in the nest for another 60 to 70 days while being cared for by their parents.