Between Meyerspark and Murrayfield, next to La Montagne, is a nine-hectare patch of rough hillside that most of Pretoria drives past on the N4 without knowing it’s there. From the top you can see north and south. In spring there are indigenous flowers you won’t often see elsewhere, and there are a couple of benches if you’d rather sit and take it all in. Look out for the old dry-stone wall that once marked the boundary between Meyer’s farm and Murray’s farm. I’m told the duikers are itinerant, so Klaas may have been lucky.
It’s fenced and gated, with entry by cell phone number, the same system many complexes use. Even so, please don’t walk there alone. I always suggest three to five adults go together. If one of you gets hurt, the second can stay with them and the third can go for help. Dogs are welcome on a lead, because of the small wildlife. The ground is left natural and it’s rough, so wear proper walking shoes, and take a hat and your stick if you use one.
The Friends of Skuilkrans look after the Kopje. Their WhatsApp group shares lovely photos with informed comments on the local plants and animals. A friend and I joined an after-dark scorpion evening, which was fascinating. If you’re hoping to meet people in retirement, though, don’t wait to be welcomed. The leader didn’t introduce himself until I asked. Do ask, because it’s a friendly place once you do. Clear-up mornings happen at short notice, so keep an eye on the group.
Good to know
Skuilkrans is also the name of a nearby primary school and an NG church, so check which one you’re looking for.
Membership is R250 per household per calendar year, even if there’s only one of you.
It also covers the Meyerspark Bird Sanctuary and the Moreletaspruit.
You get six City of Tshwane vouchers a year, for up to four people, for Rietvlei, Groenkloof, Faerie Glen and Wonderboom nature reserves.
Friends of Skuilkrans: https://www.skuilkrans.org.za/
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