West Coast National park
The West Coast National Park The park has an area of 36,259 hectares and is a fantastic example of nature’s garden. It incorporates most of the Langebaan Lagoon, the islands in Saldanha Bay, and an inland section to the east. It was first proclaimed as a marine reserve in 1973, and then as a national park in 1985. The lagoon within the reserve is surrounded by colourful wildflowers. The fields come alive with yellow, purple, orange, and white. Fields of daisies and fynbos as far as the eye can see during September and into October. The wildlife that calls this home ranges from antelope and predators on land to the magnificent fish, mammals, and sharks of the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy trails and walks, Birding, Water sports, and 4×4 trails all within the park. This is a self-drive park, and visitors are free to move around the area at their leisure. Surprisingly, even motorcycles are permitted entry, although not within the Postberg section
There is a range of accommodation facilities within the park, from beach cottages and farm chalets to dormitories at the Geelbek stables. It is even possible to hire houseboats, some of which are permanently moored, and others which are mobile.
Eve’s trail
Join the “Footsteps of Eve trail It takes two and a half days and covers 30km of the park’s stunning terrain, starting from Duinepos and ending at Seeberg. This trail is fully catered and accommodation is comfortable. The cost depends on the size of the group.
The trail traces the history of the archetypal Eve who lived 117 000 years ago and is said to be the common ancestor of all humans on earth.
Other hiking trails
The Steenbok trail is a moderately challenging 15.8-km loop. It takes about 4 hours to finish. The best times to visit this trail are from August to September.
The Postberg flower trail is a popular 15.6-km loop trail it is quite a challenging route that takes an average of 4 hours to complete. The best times to do this trail are August to October.
The Postberg trail is a 19.2-kilometre loop trail that is considered a challenging route. It takes about 5 hours to complete. It is a popular trail for backpacking and camping. You will see many wonderful birds on the route. The best time to do this trail is from August to September.
The Bakoor trail is an easy 5 km out-and-back route that takes about an hour and a half to complete.
Seeberg Cultural Heritage Information Centre
The landmark Seeberg Lookout is one of the best vistas of the West Coast National Park. This carefully restored historical shepherd’s hut is used as an information centre. It was built at the end of the 18th century. Prickly pear, fig, and quince trees planted in the garden still remain today.
Geelbek Visitor’s Centre & Restaurant
When you are at the park, pop in at the Geelbek visitors centre. There you can learn some of the cultural history and find out more about the fauna and flora of the region. There is also a restaurant which is open 365 days a year from 7.00 to 7.00
Mountain bike trails
All the trails begin at the Langebaan gate. One route is a 30-kilometre round trail from Geelbeck and back, the next is a 70-kilometre trail that passes Kraalbaai and returns. There is a “green trail” 13 kilometres up to the Seeberg bird hide and a “red trail” of 17-kilometres which also goes to the hide but then on to Mooimark before returning to Geelbek. These trails can be ridden between 7.00 am and 7.00 pm. There is a no helmet- no ride policy at the park.
022 772 2144,
The Postberg Nature Reserve is within the West Coast National Park. It is closed for most of the year but is opened to the public during spring (August – September) where one can view the exceptional carpet of spring flowers in the reserve.
West Coast National Park, between Yzerfontein and Langebaan on the R27.
The Steenbok Flower best done in early spring
reservations@westcoastnationalpark.co.za
