Palmiet River

 The Palmiet River has a small catchment area of just 500 km2. It flows through the  Elgin Valley and reaches the ocean at the estuary.

The river has five irrigation and hydro-power dams along its length, Arieskraal Dam, Eikenhof Dam, Kogelberg Dam, Rockview Dam, and Transpalmiet Dam

These reservoirs provide water for agricultural and industrial use. The apple farms in Elgin and Grabouw are irrigated by the Palmiet River.

The Palmiet is a plant Palmiet (Prionium serratum). The river should not be confused with the Palmiet River near Durban, or the Palmiet River which is a tributary of the Keurbooms River.

Palmiet trail  The best access point for the gentle 10 km river trail is the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve. The easy, flat trail begins at the parking area. There are designated areas for safe swimming along the way. Dogs are not allowed. It is recommended that you start the hike no later than 2 pm.

087 288 0499 (reserve office), 087 087 8250,

reservation.alert@capenature.co.za (for permits)Kogelberg Nature Reserve, via N2 to Kleinmond, then R44, or via Gordons Bay and Clarens Drive.