Top Hiking Trails and Nature Reserves in Cape Town

1.Bothma's Kop

Hiking Bothma's Kop Mountain

Accessible to the public via the park at the east of Uniepark in Stellenbosch, this is one of the less strenous hikes in the area, but be sure to pack sun screen and good shoes. Depending on how far along the ridge you want to travel it can be a longer hike. There is quite a steep set of rocks near the top, that can be daunting for less experienced climbers who might want to turn back at that point. Stunning view over Stellenbosh town and Simonsberg mountain. We suggest a day in Autumn or Spring to avoid extreme weather conditions.

Visit ESTATE OFFICIAL WEBSITE the hotel, dining, shopping and wine tasting at Boschendal as well as the Norval Art Gallery

2.Hike up Helderberg Mountains

View from above This has the advantage of being an official hiking trail, starting at the Helderberg Nature Reserve. The areas around the top can present some extreme steep areas, that should certainly not be attempted by less experienced hikers or those with fear of heights. Once at the top you will be rewarded with with panoramic views over Somerset West and False Bay, with Table mountain and the Peninsula in the background. Come prepared for a full-day hike. Visit GLITZYMAGAZINE to view other top natural and arhictectural sightseeing attractions in and around Cape Town.

3.Jonkershoek Nature Reserve

The dam

Accessible from within the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, this hike takes you deep within the reserve where nature can be viewed in its pristine form. Rainy season should be avoided as the trails turns into little streams. At one point you will be surprised to see the valley of Franschhoek through the gorge. Pack extra socks.

Go to the OFFICIAL WEBSITE of Groot Constantia to learn more about this exceptional heritage building and wine farm.

4.Simonsberg Mountain

Simonsberg as seen from Tokara wine farm

A tricky hike to organise as you will need some co-operation and permission from Tokara wine farm or other nearby neighbours.

Visit the OFFICIAL WEBSITE for maps of the organic gardens as well as the restuarant, bakery, succulent gardens, atrium and bonsai display.

5.Simonsberg Mountain Top

The sentinel

Simonsberg is the gem of all the Cape mountains and to find yourself on top of it is something of a spiritual experience.

6.Table Mountain

View of Lion's Head from the top of Table Mountain

This is the hike most tourists try first, and is well marked and you will be unlikely to be alone. There are several routes to the top, ask at the cable station at the bottom if you are unsure. Bring cash in case you want to take the cable car down... people are often less fit then they realise and its good to keep your options open. The top is a stunning strange landscape with many indigenous fauna and flora to see. The most commercialised of all the hikes you can benefit from some refreshments and public toilets.

Fauna and Flora you are Likely to See

A Fynbos Protea

The Cape is home to a unique flora Kingdom called fynbos, which means "fine leafed plants". The protea is perhaps the best known genus in this Kingdom, and the King Protea is the national flower. The best time to see the flowers is in September or October, which also provides great weather for hiking.