Nature nerds unite! If you’re looking for one of the most enchanting earth adventures, look no further. Fynbos is one of only six floral kingdoms in the world and it’s the only one that occurs entirely in one country. Ours! Here are six hikes to do to see fynbos in all its natural glory and as well fynbos-infused beverages you have to try.
TAKE AN EASY HIKE
KASTEEL POORT
With a cool 8,200 plant species, the lush biomes of Table Mountain National Park (the single richest floristic area on the planet) are bursting with pincushion proteas and startling red ericas. The views, naturally, are unbeatable. For the easy stroller, take the cable car (360-degree views on the way up!) and follow any one of the well-marked trails to Kasteel’s Poort.
ELEPHANT’S EYE
Elephant’s Eye can be found in the Silvermine Nature Reserve, also home to lynx, porcupine, tortoise, grysbok, baboon, black eagles and genet, as well as ridiculous natural beauty, birdlife and the Cape’s famous fynbos flora (including the iconic South African Protea). There are over 900 species of vegetation.
Take the easy route from the Tokai Lookout, starting at the car park in the Silvermine reservoir, and travelling along the gravel road until you get to your picnic spot in the Eye itself. Which is a cave (how awesome?). You’re looking at about 2 hours.
Read more about Hiking at Silvermine | 52.215.57.197/why-you-should-go-for-a-guided-hike-in-silvermine
TOUGHER BUT REWARDING HIKES
KROM RIVER
The Krom River’s claim to fame is its spectacular water features which include beautiful waterfalls and rock pools in which to rest your feet (and your appreciative soul). But that water also creates a gush of biodiversity, culminating in stunning floral displays.
To experience this gorgeousness in person, you’ll need to call CapeNature on +27 (0)21 483 0190 to book a permit at R30 per person. For the moderate route, take the N1 through to Huguenot Tunnel. On the other side is a small road with an Authorised Vehicles Only sign – your cue! Follow the signs along the river until you get to the waterfall.
CHAPMAN’S PEAK
Chapman’s Peak or “Chappies” as the locals call it, is your shortcut to some of the most magnificent views on the continent. Best hiked during the afternoon due to the lighting, this 3-hour summit climb is best done with a scrumptious picnic and lots of photo opportunities. To take the moderate route, start from the Chapman’s Peak parking area just below the toll gate. The route is well maintained as easy to follow. Just prepare yourself for the feeling at the top!
FOR THE BRAVEST OF HIKERS
SPES BONA FOREST
This 4-hour walk is graced by the yellowwood and milkwood forests that stand guard over the innumerable flowers and wooden boardwalk paths. Take the route to the Kalk Bay Amphitheatre and then the left path to the boulder collection called Cavern Rocks. Go past the Boomslang Cave and several others. The path will come around in a circle, through the forest in Echo Valley and through the Spes Bona forest.
DEVIL’S PEAK
The last home of the critically endangered Peninsula Shale Renosterveld, takes 2-4 hours to get a taste of true Capetonian mountainscape. For the difficult path, park at Rhodes Memorial, and follow signs to the Kings Block House. Then up Mowbray Ridge before moving along Knife’s Edge. Keep going until the summit.
Because of tough terrain and high drop offs, don’t try this one alone unless you’re a skilled climber or have someone who has done the route before. It is still child-friendly and the reward is completely worth it. Check out this photo essay of a fellow hiker if you don’t believe us!
TASTE FYNBOS FLAVOURS
CAPE FYNBOS TEA CEREMONY
Discover the flavours of fynbos with an informative and relaxing tea ceremony at the historic Company Gardens. You’ll taste teas that have been brewed for centuries and even make your very own blend!
For more information visit www.capefynbosteaceremony.com
FYNBOS-INFUSED GIN TASTING
Woodstock Gin Co make proudly South African Gin infused with flavours like rooibos, buchu and honeybush. You’re welcome to taste their Gin at their cosy distillery located in Woodstock.
Visit www.woodstockginco.co.za for more
