ABAHAMBA
mini-Camino
(+27) 058 924 0794
072 424 0147 (sms)
Moorfield Mountain Farm
A word from Anu
When I set out to walk the Camino, apart from a sense of excitement and joyful anticipation, I admit to harbouring some doubt and fear. Silly things like sleeping in mixed-gender dormitories, like not having the comfort of my fluffy white duvet, like coping with the food on the way. And then perhaps more compelling fears like doubting my physical ability to walk, day after day, hundreds of kilometres. Or my apprehension about walking alone through isolated forests and the biggest fear (I confess) of being alone with my deepest thoughts, in other words, meeting my very own self.
In the event I met with much benevolence and with miracles.
I love sharing everyday stories, which may include miracles associated with the Camino, (remember one miracles is not harder or bigger than another).
Join in as you like, or just relax in front of the fire, watch Camino-related DVDs, or go out and explore some of the many beautiful walks and climbs around Moorfield.
Next abaHamba - March 6-9
We seem to be getting the balance about right between serious walking for those who want to feel their legs have had a good workout, and plenty of time for meeting, sharing and just hanging out in beautiful, peaceful surrounds.
There will be a significant walk on each of the three days here – Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Each one will take a different direction on the quiet farm roads and paths in this beautiful area, with spectacular views over the Ncandu Nature Reserve, gorge and riverine forest. You will return each evening to Moorfield, so no need for carrying or ferrying heavy bags.
abaHamba is for experienced peregrinos, for those who dream of one day walking the Camino, and also for people who just want a good walk in interesting and beautiful surrounds where they are safe and can enjoy Camino-style accommodation. Bring a musical instrument either to walk with or to play of an evening here.
As always this will be an introduction to (or reminder of) the spirit of the Camino,
guided by Anu Muirhead who walked the Camino de Santiago two years ago.
You will be able to choose between 5km and 15km different walks (or longer), and we will ensure plenty of time for just enjoying this beautiful place (climbing into the gorge, wandering in ancient riverine indigenous forest, clambering down below the waterfall . . .) and for meeting and sharing experiences with other peregrinos and watching Camino DVD’s.
As on the Camino please bring your sleeping-bag; we provide a covered mattress and pillow.
Moorfield is self-catering, so please be sure to bring all the provisions you will need for your 3½ days here.
On Thursday evening we will share a meal together. Moorfield will contribute a hearty soup - please pack the makings of your contribution! Friday evening we will probably each look after ourselves – individually or in small groups – and then on Saturday we will have a braai together (we’ll tell you where to buy the BEST braai-kos en route).
“Thank you for the most wonderful, magical time at Moorfield. We had much laughter, a few tears, great walking, stunning scenery, marvellous food, healing, spiritual upliftment, friendship, too much wine – I am sure that we were all united in the view that it was simply fabulous. It was such a special weekend, at a very special place, and with very special hosts. The feeling of peace and tranquillity pervades Moorfield, and from the moment one gets out the car, all the stresses and baggage that one brings along with one, just simply disappear.” - Jenny Rooks was part of our September abaHamba.
Cost : As always on the abaHamba our aim is to replicate as closely as we can the Spanish Camino experience; we keep costs to a minimum and charge only for basic accommodation and a hearty soup on arrival. All other meals you will provide yourself.
Join us on Thursday and stay through to Sunday afternoon: R500
Stay over on Sunday night (or longer): R100/night
A R300 deposit secures your place. Please book early - places limited to 16. Closing date November 11
Bank deposits please to: Jeremy Burnham - FNB - 502100 41005 - 256 655 - kindly forward POP
Enquiries/reservations to Jeremy - moorfield@pes.org.za . . landline - 058 924 0794 . . cell - 072 424 0147 text only please (sms/BBM/WhatsApp) - http://jer375.wix.com/abahamba
Moorfield Mountain Farm is off Muller’s Pass, half way between Newcastle and Memel, on the border between North-Eastern Free State and KZN - S27.52.355 x E29.42.298 - . http://moorfield.webs.com/ We’ll send detailed directions when you register.
We look forward to welcoming you, or the friends you have passed this invitation on to!
