TRANQUILITY TRAIL ELGIN FOREST
Sat Nov 21, 06:30 - Sat Nov 21, 10:30
Back 2 Basics Adventure Camp
ABOUT
2020 has been a year of upheaval and uncertainty. Many of us seek to return to some level of peace and quiet where we can gather and share our thoughts. Where better to find the tranquility we need than the beauty and serenity of the forest. This 5km walk in the whispering silence among the trees offers a wonderful opportunity to breathe again; and sharing this quiet time with like-minded people who cherish the beauty of nature creates an additional sense of togetherness. Add to this a gentle ‘art & music’ experience and you have the ingredients to a memorable and tranquil adventure.
THE EVENT:
Held in the beautiful Elgin Forest (part of the Lebanon Forestry Department), starting at the Back2basics Adventure Camp (See map). This event starts at 06h30 on the morning of Saturday 21 November 2020. Why so early? Well, that’s when the forest is at its most beautiful. We meet at the Back2Basics bush camp, complete all the compliance regulations regarding Covid 19 and all trail safety regulations. This is followed by a short welcome and briefly getting to know each other.
Then the walk through the forest and around the dam begins, with a guide leading the way. We will keep a reasonable social distance between the participants, and the trail is followed in your own time. Maximum time from departure to completion is approximately 3 hours (or more depending on how much you are enjoying the experience).
ACTIVITIES:
We will make four stops along the way:
1. The first will be a ‘drink’ stop at the edge of the dam. While we take a break we will collectively write a song together. Brian, our bard, will compose the music to support the song as we continue. By the time we get to the end of the trail we will all hear the full song for the first time, and to the accompaniment of his guitar those who are brave enough to sing can join in. (You do not have to have any musical writing or singing talent to enjoy this activity).
2. The second stop will be a ‘picnic’ stop where we will rest to have a bite to eat. Please bring something to eat and drink with you in a small day pack that you wish to enjoy during this picnic break. (Please note we will have a simple boerie braai at the end, so don’t bring too much to eat).
3. The third stop will be our ‘creative’ session. Here we will learn to create art from the forest debris lying around us. You can do your own thing if you have some sudden inspiration, or we can collectively create something memorable together. (You do not have to be an artist of any kind to enjoy this activity).
4. The final stop will be ‘Trail’s End’, where we will have a good South African ‘Boerie Braai’ (See under ‘cost’ below). This is included in the price of your booking. We will also then join together in our exclusive song that we will have written together and the socializing will begin.
COST:
The total cost for the Tranquility Trail is R325 per person. This includes all activities and a social Boerie Braai at the end of the event. (1 x Boerewors, 1 x White bread roll (unless otherwise requested), a selection of condiments and 1 x non-alcoholic liquid refreshment).
Please note that participants are responsible to get themselves to the event. Should anyone wish to come but have no means of transport then please call Chris on 083 701 2008 and we will attempt to arrange something within reason to get you there.
WHAT TO BRING:
- A small day pack with light snacks and liquid refreshment for the trail.
- Sun protection – Hat, sunblock, long sleeves if you are sensitive to the sun.
- Good footwear. Boots are not necessary but please wear secure footwear i.e. not slops or sandals.
- Long socks, full length tights or long pants are advisable as there are thorny plants and sticks that can injure. We are unlikely to encounter snakes, but there is that possibility. It is the forest after all.
- Bring your mobile phones and cameras to record your adventure.
- You may bring dogs (one per person only) but they are to be kept strictly on a leash as we may encounter baboons, snakes and/or porcupines along the way.
PLEASE NOTE: This event is not affiliated to any Regional, National or International controlling body. You will be required to sign an indemnity form against personal injury of any kind. Failure to comply with this requirement upon arrival will disqualify you from participating in the Trail without reimbursement.