This cache is located on the Duiwelsbos trail in the Marloth Nature Reserve near Swellendam. The there-and-back-again trail is about 2.3 km and should take about an hour to complete. The trail has a few steep sections.
The nature reserve was established in 1928 after local residents petitioned the Minister of Lands and Forestry to set aside part of the mountain as a reserve. It was named after a German-born chemist and botanist, Rudolf Marloth. Marloth also played a role in the founding of the Mountain Club of South Africa. The reserve was enlarged in 1981 and the well-known Swellendam hiking trail was opened soon after.
The origins of the name 'Duiwelsbos' (Devil's Forest) is unknown. One gets the feeling that there may be quite an interesting story behind the name, but sadly it is lost in time. It is one of the few patches of indigenous forest that remains in this area, along with Doktorsbos, Koloniesbos and Wamakersbos. Tree species that can be found in the forest include yellowwood, stinkwood, candlewood, Cape beech and red alder. Rock hyrax and baboons can be spotted (or heard) in the forest.
Permits are available at the Marloth Office (see reference point) at R40 per person. Wild Cards are accepted as well. Park at the coordinates provided. The trail starts very close to the parking area. There is plenty of water available all year round - the tea-coloured water in the mountain streams is safe to drink. There are also a few nice swimming spots along the way and at the end of the trail. As the GPS coordinates are not very accurate in the kloof, we recommend taking a look at the spoiler image.
Congratulations on the FTF, Mountain Wanderer!