Life at L’Agulhas

April 5, 2012 • Posted in: Uncategorized • No Comments

Take a step out of your daily routine and picture a sleepy sea-side village at the southernmost tip of Africa. Here you’ll experience the echoing sounds of gull, the caress of crisp ocean breeze, soft sand below your feet, and stunning scenery and friendly locals. This is all within a two hour drive from Cape Town!

This seaside town is L’Agulhas, and its perfect for a weekend getaway with the family, friends, or as a romantic rendezvous! Staying here will certainly be memorable, as this is where you’ll see the meeting of two oceans (not at Cape Point, as many tourists assume). If you had any doubts, a large placard and a cairn of stones denotes where the “official” spot is, as decided by the International Hydrographic Organisation. This is a great place to take some lovely photos with the two oceans as a backdrop.

There are many attractions and activities which make L’Agulhas a perfect vacation spot. To name but a few:

Cape Agulhas Lighthouse

This landmark has been around for almost 200 years – having been built in 1848. Its design is based on the iconic Pharos of Alexandria, which is one of the wonders of the ancient world. You can visit the lighthouse, which has been made a National Monument, and explore the vast maritime museum before enjoying a light lunch at the cosy restaurant below it.

This lighthouse is situated on what locals call the “Graveyard of ships” coastline, an aptly named location! As early as the 1500s, this area was discovered and nicknamed “Cabo das Agulhas” (‘Cape of Needles’), by the Portuguese. It was given this name due to the jagged rocks hidden below the surface, and the resultant shipwrecks which have over the centuries reached around 250. If you travel down Suiderstrand road you can see a photograph commemorating the wreck of the Meishu Maru, which ran aground in 1982.

The Agulhas National Park

Not too far from the lighthouse is the Agulhas National Park, which is comprised of a coastal area filled with hiking trails. There are some great trails including the Rasperpunt hike which starts a little west of the Agulhas Lighthouse. The area features a huge variety of fynbos species, such as limestone fynbos, and it also gives you an opportunity to spot whales between June and November.

It is here that you will find one of the breeding grounds for the endangered African Black Oystercatcher – which you can watch over the December to February period. The eggs only hatch after 27 to 39 days of incubation. Please note that as the breeding period occurs during the height of tourist season, many eggs and chicks are killed by off-road vehicles (a BIG no-no in this part of the country). Another threat is being disturbed during feeding time (during low-tide periods), meaning they cannot gain enough nourishment to feed themselves and their young.

Outdoor fun

If you’re a fan of outdoor fun then the Spookdraai (Ghosts corner) hiking trail is likely for you. Legend has it that a beautiful young woman was the lone survivor of a shipwreck along this coastline, and having little strength left, she made it to one of the nearby caves before succumbing to her wounds. Today, her spirit can often be seen wandering this trail, and is reputed to visit the guesthouses close by. The whole trail takes just under three hours to complete and is located at the entrance to L’Agulhas.

Another fun event is the annual Suidpuntdag (Southern Point Day) Festival, which is held on the weekend closest to 16 May, to commemorate the shipwreck survivors as well as the shipping industry’s influence over the area.

These are some of the great activities available in Cape Agulhas. With the number of guest houses, bed and breakfasts and little hotels available, you won’t be short on accommodation. The locals are very friendly, and many are happy to tell tales of the various legends over supper, should you ask.

Author Bio: Roseanna McBain writes for Travelground.com, which has an extensive catalogue of accommodation in Cape Town and all over South Africa. On her off days she likes to spend time outdoors, enjoying the natural beauty in Cape Town.

(Image by MicGloWal, CC by 2.0, via Fotopedia)

 

Helping the animals in the Southern Peninsula

April 5, 2012 • Tags: , • Posted in: Community • No Comments

“Animals are reliable, many full of love, true in their affections, predictable in their actions, grateful and loyal. Difficult standards for people to live up to.”

― Alfred A. Montapert

 

Whether you have lost a pet, are looking to buy a companion animal, want to help out at the various pet rescues or found an animal (pet or wild) in need of a home and healthcare, there are numerous organizations that can help. There are quite a few places in the Southern Peninsula that rescue, rehabilitate, look after and rehome animals. There are also organizations that rescue wild animals and ones that provide sterilization and healthcare to pets in underprivileged communities.

These organizations rely on their own fundraising initiatives and donations to carry out the amazing services the offer for all kinds of animals, from the very young to the old and frail, whether sick, hungry, abused or healthy: they reach out to make animals’ lives better. They would not be able to do this if the public did not donate to their charity shops, drop in change to their tins, buy raffle tickets and participate in all the other events these organizations have. Kind business owners sponsor prizes for the fundraising events to raise money for the animals.

The sad reality is that people often buy expensive companion animals only to find they cannot look after the animal once they grow up or they have to move and the companions can’t go with. The luckier ones are taken to the shelters and not left in a backyard or on the street. In most instances the animals that end up in shelters are the result of backyard breeding (people breeding puppies to make money with no regard for the mother or the future of the pups) and pets (with or without homes) that simply aren’t sterilized and their offspring end up homeless.

The good news for those looking to adopt one of these animals in need is that if you have your heart set on a specific breed, age or gender you can search for the perfect companion by using the search filter options on the Furkidz or Barking Mad websites. This also allows you to narrow your search to shelters in your vicinity.

If you find a bird that is in need of attention, know of someone whose birds don’t look happy or you need advice with your own feathered friend you can contact The Bird Rescue. They also board companion birds when their owners go on holiday. The owner is Haley and she can give advice on any bird-related queries.

Animal rescue organizations in the Southern Peninsula

All these organizations are non-profit and get no government funding. They rely on public support and also need volunteers to help them care and raise money for the animals.

Tears is in Fish Hoek and they provide primary healthcare to dogs and cats in underprivileged communities as well as rescuing and rehoming lost, abandoned, neglected and abused animals. They focus on empowering people and their pets by education and giving them proper guidance and doing follow ups on the pets. To help you can volunteer and play with the animals at the shelter or you can donate by shopping at their charity shops in Bergvliet, Fish Hoek and Sunnydale.

Cape of Good Hope SPCA in Grassy Park has an animal care centre where volunteers can help out and they rescue or investigate possible neglect or abuse of domestic, farm, working and traction animals, animals reared for consumption, wildlife, and also animals used for entertainment, exhibitions, sport and research.

Domestic Animal Rescue Group or DARG can be found in Hout Bay. They have kennels where they house lost, abused and abandoned dogs and cats. If you want to help out, you can pop into the DARG Centre in Main Road, Hout Bay or donate via their various other payment options.

Animal Rescue Organization has a charity shop on Belmont Road in Kalk Bay, The Begging Bowl, as well as other locations. They have a hospital that has a clinic open to people of the nearby underprivileged communities and operate three mobile clinics to assist animals where they travel through the townships. Volunteers can help at the hospital or with their fundraising and administration departments.

(Image by Erik, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0, via Flickr)

 

Second hand shopping in the South Peninsula

Second hand shopping often brings the image of sour-smelling clothes and dusty ceramics to mind. As an avid thrifter, this is often the case. What makes it worth going through some junk are the treasures I find for next to nothing. These are not necessarily things of great value, just waiting to be discovered, but unique finds for a bargain price. Some people have an eye for spotting things that are valuable amid the kitsch, the cool and the objects whose purpose have been forgotten.

Second hand finds have become more and more fashionable as environmental consciousness and recycling is on a lot of people’s minds when they shop. Buying second hand is the most anti-consumerist approach to shopping as you reuse what might have ended up in a landfill, supporting small businesses or donating money to charity (if you buy from a charity shop).

If your interest is buying things for your home or finding interesting objects and gadgets, antique shops are the way to go. But I can’t resist second hand clothing shops.  You get your high street ones that are more expensive, for those who are not interested in sifting through bundles of run-down things. However, little in life is as rewarding as finding interesting vintage or designer clothing for a few backs at a charity shop.

Antique crockery collectors fall into a whole category of their own. It takes some knowledge to know if you are onto a bargain or being duped. Book lovers love the smell and adventure of second hand book shops. You never know what you will find. A poetry anthology of your favourite poet from when you were a teenager? Nostalgia … check. Oh, a Dreamweaver instruction guide! Learning a new skill … check.

It is wise to phone a second hand shop before driving there as they often have strange trading hours or have closed since you were there the last time.

In Retreat you can find The Rural Child’s charity clothing shop. It’s on Station Road and part of the Retreat Mall. Their number is 021 7122728. Then there is Ancient Days Antiques on Main Road, 021 788 6450, but it’s closed on Saturdays. If factory shops are your thing, visit http://www.factoryshops.co.za/factory-shops-in-the-western-cape/factory-shops-in-retreat-and-tokai/

Muizenberg’s Palmer Road is worth a visit for the charity and second hand shops. On Sundays and public holidays everything that is something or nothing can be found at the Muizenberg Flea Market. You can support Thaya Bedford’s online shop, beatnikbazaar.co.za if you miss Muizenberg too much on returning home. “I stock locally, handmade goods, some retro and vintage pieces and vintage bicycles. I also stock bicycle accessories, such as baskets and Chapel bags (which are made for cycling with),” says Thaya.

Chic Mamas Do Care has a corner at the Blue Bird Garage Market, Muizenberg that is open between 16:00 and 22:00 on a Friday. Phone 082 493 9055 for more information. They also have a shop in Hout Bay. Their website declares this their “second, newly opened, charity upmarket shop” which offers donated good quality clothing from people, from boutiques and designers who donate their left-over items. Find them at 20B Earl Street or contact them on 082 385 0915. Mariner’s Antique and Olde Shipwreck shoppe in Hout Bay claims to be “One of the world’s most interesting artefact shops, specialising in maritime memorabilia and nautical antiques such as steering wheels, brass-ware, portholes, pub signs, clocks, paintings, posters, ship models and rope.” They’re in the Harbourfront Emporium, Harbour Road. 021 790 1100 or 021 790 2870.

Kalk Bay must be the favourite when it comes to second hand shopping, so I left it for last. The Trading Post is quite a big second hand store focussing on antiques. They have a lot of rustic and rusted things that just need an artistic eye to make a home more special. They’re at 71 Main Road. They are open most of the time, but just to make sure as this is a must-visit, phone 021 788 9571.

Other antique shops down Kalk Bay Main Road are the following:

You can find classic, timeless garments in solid colour from the classic 40s at Franki’s Vintage on 70 Main. Their number is +27 (0)21 788 6776).

Happy shopping! And share some of your treasures from the South Peninsula, if you can bear to part.

(Post by our intern Elizabeth Smit)

(Image by Frames-of-Mind, CC by 2.0, via Flickr)

 

The best restaurants in the south

Hout Bay

This is a beautiful restaurant right on the harbour. Built to resemble an old lighthouse, this is one of the best dining experiences in Cape Town. Evenings can be spent inside or, on warm evenings, on the deck. Be prepared for beautiful views of the harbour and Chapman’s Peak.

This restaurant has been going strong for nearly 30 years. It has amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean and of the harbour. It’s world renowned for its incredible calamari. A warm atmosphere, good service, great food and incredible views are what make up this restaurant. A must visit when in ever you are in Hout Bay.

Cape Point

This restaurant offers something that no other restaurant in the world can offer, incredible views of the Cape and of the Atlantic Ocean. The food is prepared by a team of chefs, specializing in seafood, but they cater to every taste. An amazing restaurant that will leave you wanting more and more and more …

Simon’s Town

This Portuguese restaurant is renowned for its warm atmosphere and fantastic cuisine. Some nights they will have live music, which is a great way to spend the night. The peri-peri livers are highly recommended. Try it and you will fall in love with this homely restaurant.

A trip to Simon’s Town is not complete without lunch at Dixie’s. This restaurant is famous not for the food (it’s still very good though); no this is visited for the great atmosphere and beautiful views of False Bay. Unpretentious and laid-back, just what the doctor ordered.

Kalk Bay

One of Kalk Bay’s most iconic restaurants, Cape to Cuba is a bit of a sensory overload. A beautiful view, a bohemian style interior, great food and a vibe par excellence. Cuban cigars are for sale too, giving it a very Cuban feel. This is an exceptional place in an exceptional part of Cape Town. Remember to book a table, as it can get very full.

This bustling little bakery is in the heart of Kalk Bay, right next to the main road. It has a distinctly New York feel – hence the name. They offer some of the best coffee in town and mouth watering pastries. This is a perfect place to pop in and have good coffee and fantastic food while exploring the alleyways in Kalk Bay.

So, if you’re looking for the best restaurants in Cape Town, look no closer than your own backyard.

 (This post is by our intern Kristian Meijer)

(Image by Frames-of-Mind, CC by 2.0, via Flickr)

 

The best beaches in the southern peninsula

Cape Town has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, most of them right here in the south. These beaches are lively and are a must visit anytime you are in the southern peninsula.

Although the beach is not best place to go swimming, it is fantastic for walking or going for horse rides. It is also great for photographing the fishing boats. There are also a few restaurants nearby if you want lunch with a beautiful view of the ocean.

This is one of the most well known beaches of the south. It is perfect for surfing and body boarding because of the continuous waves. You can even rent surfing equipment at the beach. The beach was one of the most popular beaches in Cape Town in the 60s and 70s, but it’s popularity has waned the past 20 years. Despite this, it still remains as one of Cape Town’s most iconic beaches.

This beach is very popular among families with young children, as the beach is large enough to play games, like cricket and soccer. The water on this beach is relatively mild and perfect for swimming. The beach also has a restaurant and ice-cream parlour, perfect for those really hot summer days.

This is one of the greatest beaches in Cape Town. It is a small beach, protected by gigantic boulders, which means very little wind, all summer long. It is also the only beach where you can swim with penguins, most of whom are accustomed to humans. This is a fantastic beach with a great restaurant nearby. This is the south’s best beach and is not to be missed.

Noordhoek beach is a gigantic 6km long beach that stretches from Noordhoek to Kommetjie. This beach is not ideal for a day of tanning, but is ideal for horse riding and surfing. One of the landmarks of the beach is the Kakapo shipwreck. The ship was sailed aground in 1900 by the captain who mistook Chapman’s Peak for Cape Point and thought he was sailing to False Bay.

This is a remote beach very popular with surfers. This is so remote that there are no restaurants close by. It’s an isolated beach, perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle of the more mainstream beaches.

This one of a kind secluded beach is situated in the Cape Point Nature Reserve. Entry is R60, but this well worth it, as you will experience beautiful and unspoilt beaches. This will have you truly falling in love with the south.

Adapted from source http://www.onelocation.com/south-africa/travel-guides/2

(This post is by our intern Kristian Meijer)

(Image by GOC53, CC by 2.0, via Flickr)

 

Markets in the Peninsula

We all love a few hours away from work and home, and Cape Town’s south peninsula offers some really cosy and relaxing markets throughout the week where you can enjoy a fresh meal, buy a thing or two, and sip on some organic juice.

1.     Blue Bird Garage Food and Goods Market

Why not kick off 2012 at this fabulous Muizies Friday evening market. Here you can find homemade and handmade food, deli products, as well as a unique assortment of clothing, jewellery, crafts and bookstalls. This is usually accompanied by lovely background music and a generally feel-good vibe.

Situated in an old aircraft hangar, it is a great place for catching up with friends while eating something delicious. There is also a kids’ corner to entertain the little ones. Numerous tables are scattered in the centre of the building, and you can even grab a glass of wine to go along with that homemade treat.

Open Friday 15:00 – 21:00 at 39 Albertyn Road (off Main Road), Muizenberg.

2.     Kalk Bay Fresh Etc Market

This market provides locals with fresh food and tasty drinks along with a great view of the bay. The market was launched in November 2008 and it provides space for a maximum of 25 stalls. There is lots of space for visitors in the centre’s balcony as well as in the back garden of the 1906 community building.

Open on the 3rd Sunday of every month. 9am to 2pm. Kalk Bay Community Centre, Kallk Bay.

3.     Triangle Square Market

A lovely covered market for gourmet food and local producers. Here you will find less of the organic vegetables but more hand crafted goods and handmade treats.

Open every Saturday from 9am to 2pm at Triangle Square Market, Main Road, Fish Hoek.

4.     Hout Bay Organic Market

This is the biggest market you will find in the Peninsula. The market offers organic fruits and vegetables, all kinds of cheese, oils, vinegar, coffee, juice and much more.

Open every Thursday morning from 9am to 1pm.The Health Path, 41 Victoria Avenue, Hout Bay (opposite the medical centre).

(Post by Ivelina Dineva)

(Image by mikkimoo, stock.xchng)

 

5 great hikes in the Southern Peninsula

Cape Town’s South Peninsula is covered with a large variety of interesting fauna and magical flora. Luckily there are quite a few nature reserves which allow you to explore the mountainous terrain and terrific views. Always make sure that you go prepared when embarking on a hike, and don’t underestimate the amount of water, food and sunscreen you will need.

Here are five of the Peninsula’s exquisite hikes that anyone can do.

1.      Kleinplaas Dam

You can start this walk from Red Hill Road above Simon’s Town. The walk to the dam is not too long, and there are many flowers and insects to see in between the surrounding fynbos. Sometimes you can see some of the unique pelargonium capitum flowers with scented leaves, as well as Adenandra, Struthiola ciliate, and lots of yellow and orange daisies. With views of Simonsberg and Klawer Valley, this walk is certainly an aesthetic delight.  The dam itself is very welcoming on a hot day; however, make sure that you do not go on a windy day as there is no shelter around the dam.

2.     Silvermine Circuit

This is a leisurely walk that starts and finishes at the Silvermine Reservoir. It is easy to follow as the path is a jeep track all the way around. The trail bends around the hill at the top, where you can see the stunning Noordhoek coastline, Kommetjie and Slangkop Lighthouse. There are also braai areas scattered around the reservoir which you can enjoy whilst cooling off in the water.

3.     Grootbos Nature Reserve

‘Groot bos’ means big thicket and it derives its name from the eccentric trees Milkwood trees which the nature reserve formally protects.  This forest is only one of ten of its type around the world, and some of the Milkwoods are estimated to be 800 years old. In the forest you can find up to 34 different bird species, as well as small animals like porcupine, honey badger, bush buck and mongoose. You can spend days in this forest learning about the unique eco system that belongs to each Milkwood.  

4.     Silvermine, Noordhoek Peak and Blackburn Ravine Trail

This hike is definitely amongst the top of scenic hikes not only in the Peninsula but in Cape Town. You can see spectacular views of False Bay, Noordhoek beach, Chapman’s Peak, The Sentinal, Hout Bay and Hout Bay Harbour. You can follow the contour path starting from the reservoir wall at Silvermine, which will lead you up the steep Blackburn Ravine path where you will find a wooden lookout deck facing Hout Bay and The Sentinal. The walk will take you about five hours there and back.

5.     Cape Point

There are a few hiking trails to choose from in the nature reserve, but Sirkelsvlei is certainly the best one if you prefer a mixture of inland as well as oceanic views. The trail will literally take you from one ocean to another and from one side of the peninsula to the other. Be careful on this hike as there is a lot of wild life, including wild bees, herds of Bontebok, baboons and Cape terrapins, occupying the chocolate brown water of Sirkelsvlei.

By Ivelina Dineva

(Image by Andrew Deacon, CC by 2.0, via Flickr)

 

Tips for Winter Travel

Why visit Cape Town and its beautiful South Peninsula in the winter months? For one, that glorious climate, so often compared to Northern California, is particularly attractive from June to September. Snow on the mountains, clear skies overhead (hopefully) and refreshing sea breezes make it the ideal time to travel. Plus, with tourists tending to flood the area during the summer, winters are less busy and often a great deal cheaper. There are reasons why winters in the Cape Town area are known as ‘the secret season’ – so enjoy it before the secret gets out!

BASICS

Cape Town has a reputation for being cold, wet and windy during the winter season, but there are often long stretches, sometimes weeks on end, of perfect weather. Temperatures at that time average around 7 to 20 degrees Celsius (45 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit), but be sure to check forecasts before planning anything, especially outside. It is said that Cape Town has four distinct seasons, sometimes all in one day, so it’s good to keep an eye on the barometer. With the weather tending towards the unpredictable, best to pack for any eventuality and be prepared for rain showers.

There are plenty of transport options while in the area, renting a car is the most convenient way to travel, especially if you’re heading down to the South Peninsula. But, like driving in any large city, be aware and street smart. The Metrorail network links Cape Town with the South and the Western Cape, with the train ride from Muizenberg to Simon’s Town being particularly beautiful. Metropolitan bus companies such as Golden Arrow are limited in their destinations, though their services are extending. There are many mini-bus taxis available.

WHERE TO EAT

With both the Indian and Atlantic oceans bordering the South Peninsula, seafood restaurants are in plentiful supply. For good old-fashioned fish and chips favoured by locals and tourists alike, try Kalky’s in Kalk Bay. For something a little different visit the Octopus Garden Restaurant in St James, with fabulous views and a funky décor. For more spectacular scenic sights in a relaxed atmosphere, the Seaforth Restaurant in Simon’s Town is the perfect place to witness that area’s spellbinding sunsets. And an old whaling station provides the venue for the Black Marlin in Miller’s Point, which offers amazing fish dishes and an impressive wine list.

WHERE TO STAY

For a touch of luxury and jaw-dropping scenic views, the Whale View House in Simon’s Town offers a selection of comfortable self-catering apartments. If you can’t wait to build those sandcastles, the Last Word in the fishing village of Kommetjie is a 5 Star boutique hotel that’s right on the ocean. For the more budget minded, the Azars Victorian B&B in Kalk Bay offers old world charm coupled with a relaxed atmosphere. While the more ecologically minded might want to stay at Samhitakasha Cob House in Muizenberg, a family home built out of organic materials such as mud, straw, and wood.

WHAT TO DO – KIDS

South of Simon’s Town is the famed Boulders Beach home to, unsurprisingly, a lot of boulders, but also a colony of 3000 or so penguins. The area is protected and access is limited, though you can get a good view from the boardwalk at Foxy Beach or Boulders Beach itself. The Dunes Riding and Racing Stables in Noordhoek allows riders of all ages and experience levels to canter along the spectacular white sands of Noordhoek Beach, with dolphins and whales leaping alongside you. And if the winter rains do set in for a spell, then Planet Kids in Muizenberg offers a large indoor and outdoor play and activity centre, featuring a massive array of distractions.

WHAT TO DO  – BIG KIDS

As well as the more sedate activity of whale watching at many spots on the South Peninsula, there are slightly more athletic ocean-bound activities to attempt, even in the winter months. Witsands Beach in Misty Cliffs is a great place to don the wetsuit and surf at that time of the year. If you don’t fancy getting quite so wet and sweaty, Kalk Bay offers Kalk Bay Books, which claims to be the bookstore with the best view in the world! The nearby Kalk Bay Theatre provides both entertainment and a range of dining options. And you can’t visit South Africa without experiencing one of their mind-blowing vineyards. Cape Point Vineyards in Noordhoek offers a wide range of sampling menus all set in a luxuriously furnished tasting room.

 

Dale Shaw is a travel writer working for Wish.co.uk. If you’re looking for something to spice your life up, then check out their range of exciting experience days, activities and short breaks. Check out what’s going on here!

(Image by Paul Mannix [CC-BY-2.0], via Wikimedia Commons)

 

Walking off Lunch

One of my favourite ways to spend a Sunday is to have lunch somewhere (preferably by the sea) and then go for a walk, or vice versa. The Cape Peninsula offers a myriad of choices, here are but a few:

1.     Muizenberg Beach

This beach is great if you want to get out of the house but don’t want to drive too far. The views of the mountains and the fresh air are splendid but it can be very busy on a public holiday or a hot summer’s day. A nice place to start is Surfer’s Corner. Here you will find some eateries or you could buy ice-cream at Sinnful to take on your walk. A little way after you start, head for the boardwalk on your left, which will allow you to cross the Sunvlei canal which flows into the sea and can be a bit deep at times. Other activities include swimming in the sea, playing putt-putt or water slides for the kids.

2.     Muizenberg to Kalk Bay

For a different Muizenberg walk from Surfer’s Corner, head to the rocky shoreline, not to the beach. Here you will find a paved path that runs from Muizenberg to Kalk Bay. This path is exciting as it’s right on the sea and the railway is above you. Watch out for big waves and avoid this path if the sea is stormy. You can stop along the way to swim at one of the small beaches or you can duck into the numerous subways along the way and walk along the Main Road. When you get to Kalk Bay, choose from a variety of lovely places to eat at

3.     Noordhoek Beach

If I really want to get out of the city, I head for this beach. It still has an element of wilderness that other beaches do not offer. The sea here is rough and icy so swimming is not recommended, although it is a popular surfing spot. If your dogs are badly behaved, this is a somewhat secluded beach to take them to.

4.     Silvermine Nature Reserve

This reserve can be found if you turn off Ou Kaapse Weg. Because it is situated on top of the mountain, the walks in the reserve are relatively easy and flat. The Panorama walk is wonderful on a clear day as it gives you 360⁰ views of the Cape Town. Elephant’s Eye cave is also not too far away. Afterwards, enjoy your lunch at one of the braai spots and if you’re hot enough, have a dip in the dam.

(This is a post by our new intern Talia Mitrani)

(Image by Damien du Toit (originally posted to Flickr as Silvermine pano) [CC-BY-2.0], via Wikimedia Commons)

 

Fun at Soetwater Coastal Resort

Soetwater Resort, sometimes translated to ‘Sweetwater’, is a lovely coastal resort located between Kommetjie and Scarborough. The area is one of the last remaining coastal ecosystems found in Cape Town. It is also a camping site which has historical and cultural significance as it represents the challenge of establishing a balance between conservation goals and community needs. Soetwater is an ecologically sensitive location due to its rich biodiversity. Its rich biodiversity includes oystercatchers, endangered South African shore birds, active families of otter and caracal, along with a unique costal wetland which boasts beautiful crystal-clear lagoons.

Unfortunately, it is situated next to the old Witsand landfill site, which still leaks waste from time to time, even though it has been shut down for 30 years. The waste is not being capped, which is hazardous to the sensitive biodiversity of Soetwater. However, in an attempt to conserve the area, Cape Town’s Environmental Resource Management Department (ERM) has begun a process to protect the land, namely, ‘coastal conservancy’. ERM and Cape Town’s Solid Waste Department have donated R300 000 so far for the handling of the landfill site and coastal conservancy. Camping and social exercises are also encouraged in the form of conservation-based activities such as hiking or bird watching.

Head of the Environmental Policy and Strategy in Cape Town, Gregg Oelofse, stated, “We would like people to continue using the area they way they would like to use it, but within a context where the natural habitats remain functional and healthy.” In 2008, the ERM also appointed a full-time nature conservator responsible for the management of the ecology, as well as interacting with the people and educating them about nature.

There is an entrance fee to Soetwater Resort and visitor numbers are controlled as the resort is quite a popular get-together location for youngsters, adults and families in the summer. There are braai pits, picnic tables and camping and caravan sites. Recently, the boat ramp was upgraded, stone walls erected in the parking area, and information boards set up. In addition to that, the Kommetjie Environmental Action Group (KEAG) has also done a lot of work in clearing alien invaders, illegal dumping, cleaning up litter and managing waste leakages. The project will be growing bigger and employing many more people and conservancy methods.

The Soetwater Environmental Education Centre (SEEC) is located inside the resort; it offers life skills training and adventure camps for children. SEEC aims to provide exciting opportunities for children to experience the outdoors and appreciate nature.

 (This is a post by our intern Ivelina Dineva)

(Image by U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jay C. Pugh [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons)