Blaauwberg Nature Reserve
From Blaauwberg Nature Reserve, there is a spectacular view down the slopes of Blaauwberg Hill, over seven kilometres of rocky, sandy coastline. From here, you can see two proclaimed World Heritage Sites, Table Mountain and Robben Island.
Hiking in the reserve
Blaauwberg Nature Reserve was recently declared a Provincial Heritage site, due to its extremely rare indigenous flora found there and its history (from ancient KhoiSan shell middens and old kraals to the 1806 Battle of Blouberg. On the site, there is also a  WWII radar station.
Two hiking trails, including the 4.4km Coastal Dune Trail, are open to the public. This trail marks the start of the West Coast wildflower route. Â In spring, the reserve bursts into colour, with over 560 species.
Start + end point Enviro Centre at Eerstesteen Resort, Otto du Plessis Drive (M14
Duration 1.5 hours
Note to There is a fee to pay at Eerstesteen. It is open until 7 pm in summer or 5 pm in winter. The Coastal Trail is easy and quite flat, but it is quite exposed. Take care as muggings have been reported. Do not hike alone and keep valuables hidden. It is safer to join a Botanical Walk (once a month on Saturdays) with a knowledgeable flora guide. A second trail is the 7.3km Two Hills Trail, which is open once a month for a guided history-focused walk; reserve a place with hike@bca.org.za.
Child-friendly? Yes
Dogs allowed? No
Eerste Steen Resort is in Otto du Plessis Drive (M14), north of Bloubergstrand
Eerste steen beach surf report
