OTTER'S HAUNT (PARYS)
A dog friendly weekend break at a small-holding on the banks of
the Vaal River in Parys. Great doggy adventures on the offshore
islands in the river as well as other walks and things to do in
the area.
Dog Attack at Otters Haunt
in Parys
Otter's Haunt in Parys has
been a great supporter of dog friendly accommodation and it is
regrettable that the manager, Karen, was badly bitten by a
visiting dog. They were very tempted to ban all dogs, but have
decided on a compromise. From no on all visitors with dogs will
have to comply with the rules laid out in this press release by
Graeme, her husband and co-proprietor.
Click here for the rules.
Directions:
Just outside of Parys, about 1½ hours from Joburg via the N1
south. Visit their website or call them for detailed directions.
Dog Friendliness: There are 2 other friendly dogs at the
small-holding. It is likely that Shadow, their young Border
Collie, will accompany you on the walks. If the dogs get on, you
can also leave them to play while you investigate the antique
and coffee shops in Parys.
Walk Time: The islands are great fun - there are 3 that you can
usually visit. There is a lot of boulder hopping, feet wetting
and swimming to be done.
When I visited, the river was high and we only explored one
island which took about 1 hour. There are other walks in the
area - wait until Dogwalk 3 for more details - or ask the owners
at Otters' Haunt.
Safety: There may be injuries from falling off rocks. Otherwise
watch out for ticks. City dogs may struggle learning new skills
such as walking on vertical stepladders, water hyacinth is not
grass and underwater rocks are great for walking on.
Facilities: There two are self-catering cottages: one sleeps 2
adults, the other is for 4-8 people. The large one overlooks the
river, and has a swimming pool and jaccuzi. Cost per night is
R150/adult and R75/child over 4. Dogs are free - but you need to
check if you want bring out a whole pack.
Water: The Vaal River has some pollution, but on the whole it is
safe for swimming, but not for human drinking.
The Walk: Ask your hosts - they will update you. There are
basically two walks. Warning: the paths are often indistinct and
may need some experimentation. This is part of the fun. As I
couldn't get off the 1st island, I can't describe the other
island walks.
(1) A short ramble along the bank upstream starting from the
larger cottage that is suitable for an evening stroll.
(2) The longer, more tiring and more exciting exploration of the
islands. After crossing the horizontal stepladders laid across
the water hyacinth and rocks to the island, you follow the paths
left or right. The left path takes you a wide clearing with the
river on the other side and some large blue gum trees.
The path right joins up with the clearing and continues
downstream along the middle of the island adjacent to a large
ditch. Follow this path until you reach the end of the island. I
found a small weir here which I crossed onto some rocks but
couldn't find my way on as the water was too high. This island
apparently continues for some way until it ends with fast
flowing water and you have to return the way you came.
From the upstream section of the first island, there is another
weir to a third island where you may see some otters.
More Info: Contact Karen or Graeme Addison on 082-475-8767,
056-818-1814 (tel /fax), Info@otters.co.za,
www.otters.co.za
© Dogwalk Publications -
14 January 2008
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