Image related to website content

Love at First Visit: CapeNature and the Winelands  

16 May 2023

Known for its fine wine and top-class experiences enjoyed by locals and international visitors, the Cape Winelands prides itself on awe-inspiring views, award-winning wineries, historic buildings and masterpieces, and key attractions, activities and accommodation that brings family and friends together, creating wholesome and memorable moments that last forever.

CapeNature is here to remind visitors that nature is the place to be when visiting this region. Therapy does not have to be expensive when immersing yourself in the beauty of the Cape Winelands. While you’re here, don’t forget to bring your favourite read, yoga mat, and comfortable walking shoes; to fully take in the wonders of the Winelands. We call it serenity for the soul. The views are your backdrop for capturing the perfect images too. Wine, dine, and live your best life! Live in the moment – Connect with Nature.

Places to Visit When in the Winelands

Limietberg Nature Reserve

Situated near Paarl, tucked away in the Du Toitskloof mountains. A destination ideal for camping, better yet, private camping for loved ones to enjoy and be present in nature while taking a break from normality as we know it. Its name meaning ‘boundary mountain’ due to its vast mountain ranges. Historically, humans faced limitations when accessing this hidden gem due to its rocky formations, but as technology evolved, visitors can now drive through the reserve to experience nature at its finest. The region boasts rare endemic bird and plant species, as well as the calmness of surrounding mountain pools. Visitors can easily fall in love with nature again in this quiet, secluded nature reserve, filled with magical history and natural beauty. Not forgetting, marked as a heritage site.

For Directions to Limietberg Nature Reserve, Read More Here.

Key activities to enjoy at Limietberg Nature Reserve

Visitors are welcomed to camp out at nearby campsites. There are 20 sites available accommodating six persons and two cars per site. Hot showers and braai facilities are available too. There are six private campsite spots, ideal for caravans, making it the perfect breakaway for loved ones to enjoy. There are hot showers, private toilets, and USB ports for charging devices powered by solar electricity. Hikers are spoilt for choice with an array of trails, some steeper than others but great for kickstarting positive endorphins to later indulge in a delicious braai or yummy picnic basket at the picnic and braai areas at Tweede Tol. Bring along your swimming costumes to cool down in the crystal-clear mountain pools. You won’t regret it.

Historic masterpieces such as the San and Koi rock art are visible when exploring the caves and rocky parts of this nature reserve, makes for an interesting story to tell when heading home, and adds so much value to your visit. Read More Here.

Image related to website content

Trends 

Book your wine tasting tour at nearby wine farms when visiting Limietberg Nature Reserve. Paarl Wine Routes.

Don’t Forget to Pack:

Visitors are to note that the campsites have bathrooms on site, however, do bring along your essentials such as toilet paper, towels, soap, toothpaste, and warm clothing to ensure that you’d ready for the outdoors, i.e., beanies, jackets, jerseys, comfortable shoes, and warm socks.

Remember to bring your braai grid and braai equipment to feel at home in nature. Did you know that our reserves are restricted to the usage of eco-friendly logs for fires? Yep, we are all about sustainability, conserving, and protecting our environment and surroundings so that we can give our visitors the best experience when connecting with nature. Eco-logs are less harmful to the environment, producing less carbon monoxide with less ash. You’ll enjoy warmer heat when using eco-logs, easily accessible for purchase at our reception.

For More Information, Read Here.

All was Great at Limietberg Nature Reserve.

Glenda Shupinyaneng

Jonkershoek & Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve

Image related to website content

Nestled near the town of Stellenbosch, Jonkershoek best known for its majestic mountains and valleys but with a unique touch, which includes the smaller nature reserve, Assegaaibosch. Visitors get to enjoy the best of both due to its proximity.

Jonkershoek is the hikers go-to spot for trails that suits all fitness levels. Visitors are wowed with views showcasing over 1 100 plant species and precious creatures, such as small mammals, reptiles, and birds. Visitors can expect hot weather in summer and cold during winter, and if you’re lucky, you might spot snow dust higher up the mountain trails.

Image related to website content

Key Activities to Enjoy at Jonkershoek & Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve

If mountain biking is a hobby, visitors would thoroughly enjoy the challenging mountain trails with spectacular scenery at Jonkershoek. There are four rivers flowing through the Jonkershoek valley, waiting to be seen by visitors who pass through and take a dip for the full experience. Walking and hiking is an absolute pleasure here. Bring your friends and family and get lost in this breathtaking place called Jonkershoek. Read More Here

Image related to website content
Image related to website content

Assegaaibosch is not to be forgotten when visiting this nature reserve. Pack your picnic baskets and pick the perfect spot amongst greenery, trees, wildflowers, blissful walk paths, and ample space for fun to be had. Remember, this is a popular picnic spot, so an early start to the day is highly recommended.

Image related to website content

Trends 

When visiting Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, check out fun things to do in surroundings areas.  

Keep up the good work at Jonkershoek & Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve!

Mario Aisley

Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve 

Thrill-seekers, adventure lovers, dream-chasers, the list goes on! What we are trying to say is, Hottentots Holland is packed with activities and life changing experiences. Do you dare to try it? It’s magnificent to look at, with high mountain tops, bright, colourful scenery complemented by wildflowers and gorgeous plant-life. A great place to host friendly outdoor challenges with your loved ones.  

Image related to website content

Key Activities to Enjoy at Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve

Hiking, walking, bird watching, and sightseeing while exploring the mountains and natural habitat of the fynbos and 110 species in the area can be enjoyed by visitors. Huts are available for extreme hikers who take longer journeys when connecting with nature. Kloofing is almost impossible not to do when visiting this nature reserve. Suicide George Kloofing Trail is for those adrenaline seekers who find joy in jumping off high cliffs into cold waters, not for the faint-hearted, but for those keen to tick Kloofing off their bucket list. For beginners, the Riviersonderend Kloofing Trail would be the next best option to combat your fears. Bring your bikes and swimming costumes. We promise you’ll be back for more!

Wonderful experience at Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve. Staff were amazing, booking was simple and efficient. Keep it up!

Adam Thomas
Image related to website content
Image related to website content

Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve

Image related to website content

Situated in the Breede River valley, 15km south of Robertson, lies the beautiful Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve. Expect bursts of happy emotions when visiting this bright and colourful reserve. The plant life adds a special touch to the look and feel, enhancing positive and inspiring thoughts. The perfect getaway for outdoor activities and fully equipped accommodation.

Key activities to enjoy at Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve

Hiking and walking trails, birdwatching, mountain biking, and a scenic picnic area can be enjoyed by visitors. Vrolijkheid has five self-catering accommodation options, fully equipped with braai areas, two of these cottages (Luiperd & Rooikat) have been renovated to include eco-friendly hot tubs, making your stay extra cosy, especially during the winter season. View Our Accommodation Listings Here.

Image related to website content
Image related to website content

Trends

Planning to visit Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve anytime soon? Read Here to Make the Most of Your Trip.

Really impressed with the trail signage and well-maintained facilities at Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve.

Tammy Lotz

To know more about CapeNature and the Cape Winelands, contact us on 087 087 9262 or email

reservation.alert@capenature.co.za. 

We are currently running a winter promotion. Get 40% off your next booking with us, valid until 31 July, T&Cs apply. 

Share:

Related News

Marine Dynamics crowned winner of the ATTA Marine Impact Award Image 1
1 Jul 2025
Marine Dynamics crowned winner of the ATTA® Marine Impact Award

Marine Dynamics Shark and Whale Tours has been honoured with the ATTA® Marine Impact Award during the Experience Africa Travel Conference in London on 23 June 2025. The award recognises organisations making a tangible difference in protecting Africa’s marine and coastal environments while fostering long-term community benefits.

Conservation Review 2025 Group Image
27 Jun 2025
Conservation Review 2025 highlights Western Cape’s biodiversity and conservation resilience and adaptability

CapeNature showcased its significant achievements in conservation operations and exceptional biodiversity protection over the past year.

The central message throughout the event and central to the theme was an emphasis on the successful partnerships the Entity has cultivated with stakeholders. Many of these partners were also in attendance, showcasing delivery on collaborative projects. The Entity relies on the productive co-operation of many partners to successfully execute its mandate in the Western Cape.

De Hoop Nature Reserve Bontebok
26 Jun 2025
2025 State of Conservation Report highlights progress and priorities in protecting Western Cape biodiversity

CapeNature launched the 2025 State of Conservation Report this morning at its annual Conservation Review, offering a clear, evidence-based view of the Western Cape’s biodiversity and how conservation efforts are measuring up.

Key themes emerging from the report include sustained efforts to build biodiversity resilience in the face of climate change, the value of strategic partnerships, and the growing integration of monitoring data into planning and policy.

20160529 072239 W12 1921
19 Jun 2025
A Win for Renosterveld Conservation as Haarwegskloof Declared a Provincial Nature Reserve

In a major victory for biodiversity conservation, Haarwegskloof, which includes the largest remaining connected stretch of renosterveld left on Earth has officially been declared a provincial nature reserve.

The reserve is owned by WWF South Africa and managed by the Overberg Renosterveld Trust (ORT), a non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting and restoring the fragile renosterveld ecosystem that once covered large parts of the Overberg.

Tegansmithphotography damaratrail 8
12 Jun 2025
Damara Trail Wins Silver Award at International Tourism Film Festival Africa 2025

CapeNature is proud to announce that its Damara Trail video series has won the Silver Award in the Tourism – Products category at the prestigious International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA) 2025.

CapeNature’s videos stood out for their compelling storytelling, visual excellence, and ability to capture the essence of nature-based tourism in the Western Cape.

“We are incredibly proud that the Damara Trail videos have been recognised on an international platform. This award helps to underline our commitment to sustainable tourism offerings. Much like the Damara Trail itself, the video helps to tell the unique history and story of the Waenhuiskrans area to visitors both far and near,” said Sheraaz Ismail, Executive Director: Eco-Tourism and Access.

Thys De Pakhuys 5
11 Jun 2025
Climbing in Rocklands this Season? Here’s What You Need to Know After the Cederberg Fire

The Cederberg, a protected wilderness area managed by CapeNature and home to some of the most iconic climbing and bouldering routes in South Africa, was recently impacted by a wildfire that began on 7 March 2025. The fire ignited near Krakadouw Peak and burned for 13 days, before being fully contained on 20 March. In total, it scorched 20,834 hectares, spanning 97 kilometers of fire line, and included damage to the Rocklands “Bouldering Area” — a popular climbing zone. As a result of the fire, several popular climbing sectors and access routes have been damaged or are temporarily inaccessible.