The Big Tree stands high on the ridge viewed from Wild Spirit Backpackers Lodge in Nature’s Valley South Africa.
She may not be the biggest Onteniqua yellowwood tree (Podocarpus falcatus) in South Africa at 98.42 feet/30 meter but clearly stands out on the hillsides above Nature’s Valley at Wild Spirit Backpackers Lodge on the Khoinania Farm.
Walk light footed on the short 15-minute leaf scattered trail dappled with morning light that leads to the hundreds year old Big Tree .
Sweet sage shares it’s cleansing scent.
Butterflies alight nearby.
Only about 1/2” long
Although I dislike disturbing them I gently swing a stick in front of me to clear the spider webs cross the trail.
Like life, it’s not all about distance traveled or even what’s at the end of the trail. Take time to enjoy the journey. Be in the Now.
From God’s Window along the way a view of Peak Formosa, tallest of the Onteniqua Range.
Having seen the reportedly largest, 120 feet/36.6 meter, and oldest at 800 years “Big Tree” on another trail in the nearby Tsitsikamma National Park I knew I’d be impressed.
She is known as Mama Yellowwood and encourages hugs.
I am also impressed and smitten with Wild Spirit because of the diversity of forest , the eco-minded family hosts, and the people from around the world that visit.
Raise your words not your voice. It is rain that grows flowers not thunder. –Rumi
Khoinania means communion by intimate participation which superbly describes this magical place and Energy Exchange that occurs here.
Do not try to resist the silent call of the Big Tree as your wild spirit pauses in Nature’s Valley.
Although we celebrate Earth Day April 22 let us remember we celebrate every day of our lives on Earth. Visit the Nature Travel Roundup for ideas about where to explore next.
I was compensated for my over night stays at Wild Spirit but all opinions are my own.