Paradise Valley Nature Reserve – Trails
Description
Paradise Valley Nature Reserve comprises about 100 hectares of coastal forest and remnant grasslands with the Umbilo River running through the length of the Reserve. This is where the ruins of “The Umbilo Waterworks” of 1887 – 1905 can be found. This reserve is known for its well maintained picnic sites and easy walk to a waterfall. Some of the mammals to be found along the trails are dassies, bushbuck and blue duiker.
Directions
Whilst travelling along the N3 towards Pinetown, take exit 71 – M13/Pinetown/Pietermaritzburg. Shortly after taking this exit, take exit 16 – M5/ Stapleton Road/ New Germany. Keep left; be careful not to turn right into Eden Road as the traffic sometimes travels fairly fast around this bend. Carry on to the end of Oxford Road where you’ll find the Reserve.
Routes
The Waterfall Trail, a gentle walk, is 705 meters and takes you to “The Umbilo Waterworks” and a viewing balcony overlooking the Umbilo Falls. Then there’s the Duiker Trail, at 642 meters and The Bushbuck Trail at 861 meters. The Bushbuck trail is a mild to steep walk. The most strenuous and steep of all the trails is the Dormouse Trail, at 1,315 meters.
Rating
Easy; mild; steep.
Permit
No booking is required; a small fee is payable; open 7:30am to 5pm.
Features
Conference facilities; waterfall; braai facilities in picnic site; toilets; coastal bush; remains of “The Umbilo Waterworks”.
Take With
You will need the following:
• Walking shoes;
• Camera;
• Binoculars;
• A towel if you have children (they are likely to jump into the river);
• Refreshments and water.
Please Note
Important points to remember about this hike:
• You can collect a printed copy of the trails map at the reception.
Contact
10 Oxford Road, Pinetown
Tel : (031) 719 2102 / 702 3443 Fax : (031) 702 3473