Kahruvel Beginnings

It is only appropriate that I begin with one of my favorite locations, right? Nearly two years ago, I first discovered the stretch of old pines called the Kahruvel Forest as well as the ruins which can be found there. In a land of shops, malls, and dance clubs it was, and still is, good to find unassuming places devoted to retaining the peacefulness of nature and the allure of mysteries from another time. I reveled in my find and would stay there for long periods, not travelling out and seeing other things but sitting by the small campfire and watching the ocean waves rolling into shore. I once told a good friend, "Ghosts walk in the Kahruvel Forest..." When I returned after a long eighteen month voyage I was delighted to find the forest, and the ghosts, still existed.

Lovingly watched over by Salazar Jack and a group consisting of his family and friends known as the Phyneas Jack Memorial Trust, the Kahruvel Forest holds the venerable ruins of an ancient culture. The forest itself stretches from Abbotts to the western edge of Bolinas and runs, at times, right up to the edge of civilization. Since returning and restoring this forest, the group has been researching those ruins which remain and looking for clues to solve the mysteries of what happened to whatever place once stood there. To the South, the seaside village of Cowell borders the forest and features an ancient lighthouse reconstructed from remains found on the village site. More enigmas have begun to service and, it would appear, Kahruvel still has many secrets yet to be coaxed out of it.


A more moderen feature is the lofted lookout tower of Salazar's grandfather, Phyneas Jack. Though a bit chilly with the wind coming in from the ocean at times, the tower is a good spot for quite, peaceful meditation. Currently, you can also take refuge from the storms which are currently tearing through the area. Lightning is prevalent so flying may not be recommended. What is causing these storms is unknown but there is some evidence that it is linked to the metal replicas created of stone pillars which once stood on the land. (Update-- More recently it appears the same storms and lightning destroyed an ancient tower which stands like an obeliskt in the first picture above.)

More riddles are scattered about the land but none give complete answers of what is going on in the Kahruvel forest. I've been carrying on expeditions there in my free time and all I can say is whatever the answer might be, its larger then just the Kahruvel Forest. If time permits, I will be returning to the Kahruvel for more commentary and expeditions. Check it out when you can and be kind to the place while you are there. Remember, there are ghosts there.


(You can find out more about the Kahruvell forest by visiting Salazar Jack's blog and website. )