Kogelberg Nature Reserve
Hugging the beautiful coastal route east of Cape Town, the Kogelberg Nature Reserve is just over an hour from Cape Town. Considered by many to be the most beautiful of CapeNature’s protected areas, Kogelberg Nature Reserve earns that reputation largely to the fact that it occupies an area with minimal human interference. Its exceptional diversity and quality of fynbos means it is considered the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom. The reserve presents perhaps the finest example of mountain fynbos in the Western Cape and is a world-renowned World Heritage Site.
The reserve is unspoilt with the peaks, dips and tributaries of the Palmiet River creating a remote wilderness.
The best way to explore Kogelberg is walking the number of hiking trails. And once you’re done on the trails, you can take advantage of the award-winning accommodation at Kogelberg – the Oudebosch self-catering Eco Cabins, each providing a view of this World Heritage Site.
To find out more, download the Kogelberg Nature Reserve complex brochure and map.
ACCOMMODATION
Oudebosch Eco Cabins – The glass fronted eco-cabins afford occupants breath-taking views of the reserve, which is a World Heritage Site. Each of the five Oudebosch eco-cabins at Kogelberg Nature Reserve sleeps four people and consists of two bedrooms, one bathroom, one en-suite, and a spacious kitchen, lounge and dining area.
MOUNTAIN BIKING & CYCLING
A moderate 22km ride along the jeep track through the Kogelberg Valley starts at the reserve office. The route should take between 2-4 hours. Please use sunscreen, protected riding gear and make sure you have plenty of water on the trail. Permits can be purchased from the reserve office.
Please note mountain bikers must be wearing helmets at all time.
Immerse yourself in nature
This was a stunning experience, to come back after a long day’s winter hike to crisp white sheets, a log burning fire and piping hot showers was awesome. The Oudebosch cottages are not only well equipped but beautifully set in natural surroundings taken advantage of by huge windows which allows you to sit in comfort and warmth while enjoying nature on your doorstep.
We had a big group so had taken two cottages, neither of the ovens were working but we were told about this and planned accordingly.
We also noted alien vegetation in the vicinity of the cottages, which for a reserve with Natural Heritage status is not acceptable and should be removed.
Bird lovers will enjoy the mornings when you are woken by birdsong and at least four different types of birds are present in the fynbos, some even visiting the cottage deck and being very accommodating when it comes to posing for photographs.
An experience to be recommended to those who enjoy outdoor activities and nature.