Stanford - Hiking at Salmonsdam Nature Reserve

Salmonsdam Nature Reserve Credits: www.capenature.co.za

Salmonsdam Nature Reserve, run by Cape Nature is a small reserve not far from Stanford in the Western Cape. There are three hiking trails available.

The longest is a Mountain Trail from the foot of the Perdeberg mountain and at the top there’s a view over Walker Bay, Caledon and Bredasdorp. The second trail is the 4km Ravine Trail through Keeromskloof and through small patches of indigenous forest. The final trail is the Waterfall Trail of about 3km through thick fynbos down to the falls and back.

 We did part of the ravine trail but turned back where it joins the mountain trail. The piece we did do was fairly easy but the next stage seemed fairly difficult, although probably not difficult at all for experienced hikers. The fact that Salmonsdam hiking routes don’t feature strongly on hiking and related sites confirms that assumption.

There are very basic facilities at Salmonsdam Nature Reserve for overnight camping including a few small chalets. There is an ablution block and 10 camping sites.

Around the South east edge of the reserve is a “mountain drive”: which leads far up into the Perdeberg and meets up with the Mountain trail. I was expecting to be able to drive to the top in an ordinary motorcar but it seems that only 4X4 vehicles will be able to reach the summit with any ease. 

Flora and Fauna is varied and the reserve is a good example of a mountain catchment area. We spent an entire morning in the reserve and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

 For maps and detailed information of Salmonsdam Nature Reserve contact Cape Nature on 028-341-0018 or 028-314-0062

Getting There.

From Cape Town go to Hermanus on the N2 and R43 and then to Stanford on the R43. As you enter Stanford turn left onto the Caledon Road (R326). From the intersection go 4.4km until you reach the  “Papiesvlei, Elim” turnoff to your right. From here on the roads are gravel, and caution should be exercised.Travel approx 6km on this gravel road and then turn left at the Salmonsdam turnoff. Travel for approx 3.5 kms. You will pass the entrance to a property called Beloftebos and 1.5 km from there you will reach Salmonsdam Nature Reserve.

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