{"id":151708,"date":"2019-11-27T14:53:33","date_gmt":"2019-11-27T12:53:33","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.myza.co.za\/travel-treasure-troves-in-the-trees\/"},"modified":"2019-11-27T14:53:33","modified_gmt":"2019-11-27T12:53:33","slug":"travel-treasure-troves-in-the-trees","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.myza.co.za\/press\/travel-treasure-troves-in-the-trees\/","title":{"rendered":"Travel treasure troves in the trees"},"content":{"rendered":"

Travel treasure troves in the trees<\/a>: <\/p>\n

Let Forestry South Africa\u2019s recreational map help you plan your breaks in 2020 – b<\/em>y Dr Ronald Heath, Forestry South Africa<\/p>\n

Johannesburg, November, 27, 2019 – We\u2019ve all driven past them on the way to Durban, and the Kruger National Park. Tall towers of brown and green, swaying in the wind as they mesmerise us with the timber tunnels they create. <\/strong><\/p>\n

South Africa is home to 1.2 million hectares of sustainably managed commercial timber plantations. As the source of a number of everyday products, these plantations are also home to the unexpected. <\/p>\n

You will be surprised how many things are made from wood and the South African commercial forestry industry farms the trees to provide the raw material. These trees add value to our economy by providing timber for construction, for the production of pulp, paper, packaging and tissue, for cellulose products such as sponges, viscose fabric and the ever-versatile microcryrstalline cellulose*. The industry also provides employment and supports communities, especially in rural areas.<\/p>\n

Sustainably managed commercial trees (along with the products made from them) are renewable. Saplings are planted in the place of mature harvested trees \u2013 contrary to images and myths that harvested trees equate to deforestation.<\/p>\n

Add in timber\u2019s carbon storage capacity of nearly one tonne of carbon per cubic metre of wood, even after harvesting and processing, and you have an industry that delivers in more ways than you can imagine.<\/p>\n

Around 30% of forestry-owned land is not managed for timber production and is set aside for biodiversity conservation … vast swaths of grassland, riverine habitats, wetlands and indigenous forests. Together with plantations, these areas present countless recreational options.<\/p>\n

Fun in the forests<\/strong>
Our Forestry Explained recreational map highlights various activities and attractions found on forestry-owned land that is open to the public.<\/p>\n

It showcases the eco-activities offered by forestry companies and private individuals in one user-friendly recreational guide. Its interactive nature allows you to explore what\u2019s on offer, along with important information for the perfect forestry day out.<\/p>\n

Take the trail less travelled<\/strong>
For the energetic and adventurous, there are kilometres of trail running, hiking and mountain biking tracks.<\/p>\n

For a more sedate option, you may prefer bird watching or a picnic, while taking in spectacular views or the sounds of waterfalls.<\/p>\n

Forestry fun bucket list<\/strong>
If you\u2019ve not yet planned your December break, why not end the year exploring South Africa\u2019s commercial forests, or add some of these to your 2020 bucket list?<\/p>\n

1. Mpumalanga\u2019s waterfalls<\/strong> \u2013 many of the famous \u2018Panorama Route\u2019 waterfalls are actually situated on forestry land. These include Berlin, Lisbon and Mac Mac falls and pools; Bridal Veil, Lone Creek and Maria Shires falls.
2. Mountain biking getaway<\/strong> \u2013 take a long-weekend and explore the plantations, indigenous forests and open grasslands of Karkloof and Howick in KwaZulu-Natal. Enjoy the incredible scenery, amazing biodiversity and the 100km plus of biking trails.
3. \u2018Big 4\u2019 forestry hikes in four provinces \u2013 the famed Fanie Botha and Tsitsikamma hikes, as well as the beautiful Magoebaskloof and Jonkershoek trails offer breathtaking views, diverse scenery and a wealth of biodiversity. These fantastic forestry trails are a great way to explore the distinctly different landscapes of four provinces.
4. Kaapsehoop scooters <\/strong>\u2013 take a two-hour scooter adventure through the Kaapsehoop plantations, over streams, beside magnificent rock formations and waterfalls. If you are really lucky, you might get a glimpse of the wild horses for which the town is renowned.
5. Trail running triple<\/strong> \u2013 forestry-owned land hosts three of South Africa\u2019s best trail running venues, with routes to suit all levels of experience and fitness. Jonkershoek\u2019s Red Phoenix presents even experienced runners with a challenging descent, while the 20km Karkloof trail and 21km White River long route are great tests of endurance. All three have a number of great short trails that are perfect for those wanting to take their first steps in the sport.<\/p>\n

The South African forestry landscape is far more complex and diverse than simply rows of planted trees.<\/p>\n

* Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) is a term for refined wood pulp and is used as a texturiser, anti-caking agent, fat substitute, emulsifier, extender and bulking agent in food production. The most common form is used in vitamin supplements or tablets. Cake decorators use it to harden fondant too.<\/em><\/p>\n

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Views for days Photographer: SAPPI<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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Plantations are synonymous with some of SA’s best running trails. Photographer: SAPPI<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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Tsitsikamma hiking trails Photographer: SAPPI<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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Kaapsehoop Scooter Tours Photographer: SAPPI<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

Video:<\/strong> Travel treasure troves in the trees<\/strong>:<\/p>\n

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