South Africa - Western Cape Day Hikes

A large beach with undulating dunes of soft white sand to the east of Hangklip. This can be a windy spot and the Atlantic Ocean surf is cold and strong, even in summer.

The Koppie was formed 440 million years ago. It's a freestanding hill in the town of Hermanus and is named after Sir William Hoy 1868-1930, a Scotsman and railway manager, who first visited Hermanus in 1910 and visited annually until his death. He and his wife, Lady Gertrude Hoy, are both buried at the summit of the hill, which boasts beautiful views of Hermanus and the Atlantic Ocean

This is a great little hill, only 207m high but with cracking views across the Hermanus coast line and the Atlantic ocean. The hill is within the Fernkloof Nature Reserve and there are an abundance of well maintained trails to explore here

This is one of the hills that shadows the eastern suburbs of Hermanus. Looking forward to accessing these hills via the Fernkloof nature reserve over the next few days

You need a permit to hike in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The views are well worth the small price I paid to hike here though. There are single and multi-day trekking route options available, but due to the intense summer heat I favoured a shorter route. Heading north up the west bank of the Palmiet River before gaining a bit of height and walking down on the east side. Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve is a stunning location in South Africa and this walk can be enjoyed by all ages.

A truly stunning section of the Hermanus Coastal Cliff Path. Kwaaiwater translates from Afrikaans to 'Angry Water'. There are a handful of benches situated perfectly to sit and enjoy the show!

Kogelberg Nature Reserve - the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom. Approximately 1,800 plant species can be found here. Hikers require permits (available at a small cost) to explore this area, which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Cape Leopard has been spotted here. A nice mixture of woodland walking, hopping over rivers and walking across the open hillside on well maintained paths.