Limietberg reserve
Limietberg nature reserve is a pristine area tucked away in the Du Toitskloof Mountains. The reserve stretches from Franschhoek in the south, eastwards towards Groot Drakenstein Northwards as far as Voëlvlei Dam and it is a World Heritage Site. The area is an important water catchment for the Breede and Berg Rivers. The catchment also feeds the Wemmershoek, Stettynskloof, and Brandvlei dams. Some 102 000 ha of fynbos-covered mountain slopes, challenging cliffs, and indigenous river valleys make up the reserve.
There are several hikes through steep kloofs and deep valleys within the reserve. Du Toits Peak, at 1 996m, is the highest point within the reserve. Visitors can see the many historical sites along the trails, including ancient rock art, a disused manganese mine, and the graves of convicts who helped build the Bainskloof Pass.
Animals you may see include small antelope, baboons, and the occasional caracal and leopard. You may also be lucky enough to spot endemic birds such as the Cape sugarbird and the protea canary, as well as the majestic black eagle
The hike along the Witte River runs through the Bainskloof Pass. You can stay for the day or spend the night. There are pristine camping spots and natural swimming pools. While it gets really hot in Summer, the area can get unexpectedly cold, so pack some warm clothes.
The hiking path leads up a river to two spectacular rock pools, which can be icy even when it’s warm. The walk itself isn’t too long, so you can spend plenty of time swimming in the mountain pools.
.The Krom River trail is a 7 km five-hour hike, it guides you past waterfalls and deep, translucent rock pools that are clear enough to snorkel in. While the water may be ice-cold, it will certainly be a welcomed relief after enduring a long hike in the gruelling heat. come prepared. You need to walk about 2,5km from the starting point to reach the first waterfall – but the second waterfall has a large plunge pool.
Follow the Krom River signs. The path is pretty straightforward and is marked with little white boot prints painted onto the. The trail initially leads up over a small cliff (there is a great swimming spot ) and then follows the river on the right. You’ll crisscross back and forth over the river a couple of times.
The path turns up the ravine to a deep rock pool with a waterfall. The next waterfall is reached using up a chain. This will take you to an even bigger pool with an even bigger waterfall and is worth the climb. The water is clear enough to snorkel, however, it is ice cold The route up can be difficult and slippery and isn’t recommended unless you’re a reasonably able climber. This isn’t a circular route, so you will need to take the same path back down the river.
. Pets are not allowed in Cape Nature reserves. There is an entrance fee for the reserve. Permits can be purchased at Du Kloof Lodge (just after the tunnel on your left)
However, Only 24 permits are issued per day to prevent overcrowding.
The Witte River runs through the Bainskloof Pass, past the Huguenot Tunnel. It is also part of the Limietberg Nature Reserve and has pristine camping spots, hiking trails and natural swimming pools. Day visitors are welcome, though spending the night is advised.
Du Toitskloof (parking to the left after the Worcester exit of the Huguenot Tunnel),
reservation.alert@capenature.co.za
