Helderberg Nature Reserve
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At the foot of the Helderberg Mountain lies the
. Apart from being the home of indigenous fauna and flora, it also offers visitor trails to walk or hike through the natural wilderness.
The
s offers a variety of walking trails that vary from 2.2 km to 7 hours. There were only 3 options to choose from when I last walked the trails. They were what I termed as easy, medium and hard. The latter was short and steep which challenged every ounce of endurance and stamina. Thankfully that have extended the options making it more inviting for younger family members.
The beauty of this reserve is the amount of indigenous animals and plants that are at one's fingertips. From sugar birds to klipspringers (the local deer), there is bound to be something that will grab your attention. Personally, I enjoy listening to nature's music which composes of wind, bees, birds, crickets and frogs.
Adjacent to the car park is a beautiful picnic area covered with oak trees and lined with fynbos. For those that forgot to bring a picnic basket, you can purchase one from the local kiosk.
The Visitors Center, which is set within the historical Dutch Gable Building, offers an abundance of information about the different types of animals and plants on the reserve. With helpful staff, you are bound to come away with knowledge and possibly a keepsake.
The Nature Reserve is what I term, the heart of Somerset West. It dates back to the early 1960's when the Rotary Club suggested that a reserve would benefit the community. It can be found at the top of Verster Avenue, which is just off Reservoir Road.
Entry fees into the Reserve start from R10.00 with plenty of parking options within the reserve. Payment is made at the gate.
In essence, the
is like a 'mini safari' where you will be able to see the 'wild and wonderful' up close and personal. Make sure that you give yourself at least one day to enjoy this setting and don't forget the camera.
#day_trips
#nature
#near_cape_town
#outdoor
#picnic_spots
#walks
%wncapetown
93516 - 2023-06-12 00:53:53