Princess Vlei
Princess Vlei Conservation Area is a massive wetland system that runs through Grassy Park, Lotus River and Strandfontein.
Before the arrival of European settlers Princess vlei was a watering ground for early Khoi herders. The Khoi and the San were the area’s earliest inhabitants. They were forcibly enslaved or driven out by the settlers. The first encounter between these herders and Europeans was in the battle against Fransisco D’Almeida. This encounter was linked to the legend of a Princess. The story is that the Khoisan Princess was bathing in the water and was abducted by Portuguese sailors.
It has long been used as a place for Baptism. Church groups from Nyanga, Gugulethu, and Philippi come every Sunday. Many people also visit the Vlei at Easter to be close to God and nature.
This space reconnects urbanised communities with nature. It is also an outdoor classroom where youngsters can experience and develop an appreciation of and love for nature.
Geolocation -34° 2′ 49.2″, 18° 28′ 44.4″
