Paarl Rock Nature Reserve
At the Paarl Rock Nature Reserve, you can enjoy the picturesque landscape of fynbos vegetation dominated by massive rounded granite rock formations. These are set among wild olives, rock candlewood and wagon trees. Visitors can follow one of the many hiking trails. Numerous species of Proteas may be viewed at the Mill Water Wild Flower Garden. Catch bass at Nantes Dam or enjoy mountain biking, picnics, and panoramic views of the Drakenstein Valley.
Paarl was named after Paarl Rock. The massive monolith is shaped by three rounded outcrops that form Paarl Mountain. It is the second-biggest granite boulder in the world.
The rock was so named due to the pearlescent glimmering of wet rock after rain. The area seems other-worldly with moonlike craters, and alien-like glitter covering the granite. The Taal Monument close by is a sculpture constructed in commemoration of the Afrikaans language. You can also begin your hike up the mountain from this point.
Read more about the Paarl rock sacred site
Picnic at Paarl rock
Enjoy a leisurely braai nestled within fynbos, olive trees, and granite boulders at Krismis Camp. Take care to extinguish your fire when you leave
The Main Bretagna Rock Trail
This trail is moderately difficult and takes about an hour. After entering the reserve, make your way toward the massive rocky outcrop. There are rustic ablutions at the start of the trail. The hike begins on a recycled plastic path that is made to look like wooden slats. It then divides at the endpoint, with one direction heading to the shimmering rock face, and the other leading to a shady path lined with trees. The walk is easy and includes a steep incline up to the chains which you need to pull yourself up the rest of the way On a clear day you will be able to see Table Mountain from the top
Abseil down the Paarl Rock. With this unique experience, you can experience beautiful scenic views of the Paarl Valley. The descent is just short of a 100m. It’s an easy abseil because the starting gradient is not vertical. Booking is essential! 021 868 0227
Dogs on leashes are permitted
Jan Phillips Mountain Drive, Paarl
reservation.alert@capenature.co.za Lindsay.Lewis@drakenstein.gov.za
