Dramatic Landscapes, The mighty Langeberg Mountains with Grootberg as the Highest peak seen in the centre of the frame
This marks the entrance gates to grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve managed by Cape Nature.
This is the Latest upgrade that Cape Nature has made: Viewing Decks, this one just above Chalets and a second Viewing Deck along the 6Km cycling route.
As we traversed the rugged, uneven dirt road, drawing nearer to the majestic Langeberg mountains, the familiar blue signage of Capenatue indicated a mere 6 kilometres remaining, instilling within us a sense of anticipation to once again immerse ourselves amidst the Champion Redwoods of the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve. Its recent designation as a World Heritage Site is noteworthy.
The vast mountains were veiled by thick mist, accompanied by a gentle drizzle and a palpable chill in the air. Upon passing through the inviting entrance gates of the reserve, the fragrance of the forest enveloped us.
We had reserved a tented deck in the Glamping section a year prior, and owing to the burgeoning popularity of this recent addition to Capenature’s offerings at Grootvadersbosch, we eagerly retrieved our keys from reception.
We finally found our first Breviceps acutirostris. Also known as the common rain frog, strawberry rain frog, or Cape short-headed frog, it is a species of frog in the family Brevicipitidae.
Despite the rain, our enthusiasm remained undiminished. It struck us as peculiar to celebrate precipitation during the Easter long weekend. However, the rain was essential for our Herping expedition within this pristine forest nestled amidst the Langeberg, within a valley sculpted by the Duiwenhoks River. Our primary objective was to locate the Strawberry Rain Frog, also known as the Short-headed Rain Frog. Since our visit seven years prior, we have been fascinated with this distinctive amphibian species endemic to these mountains. Regrettably, our initial attempts were unsuccessful, hence our optimism for a fortunate third endeavour.
During our previous visit to Cape Nature in 2017, we observed the construction of the new Glamping Decks. Enthralled by this development, we resolved to return and indulge in this novel experience, coupled with the myriad activities offered by this remarkable reserve. Unbeknownst to us, the entire camping infrastructure had undergone an upgrade, including new ablution facilities, a welcoming pool, and a play area. As ardent nature enthusiasts, our focus naturally gravitated towards the environment and its inhabitants. Cape Greysbok, bushbuck, and baboons roamed the vicinity, necessitating vigilance to deter the latter’s intrusive advances.
The constant rain persisted as we settled down with a glass of red wine, revelling in the forest’s nocturnal symphony. In the distance, a Fiery-necked Nightjar’s call resonated; while we were convinced, we discerned the calling of an African Wood Owl from the campsite. This would be our sanctuary for the ensuing nights.
Arising before dawn, we embarked on familiar trails, hoping to glimpse the elusive nightjar or, ideally, the Wood Owl that had serenaded us during the night. With sunrise heralding the commencement of a new day, we roused the family, eager to commence our Herping expedition and delve deeper into the forest. Lacking specific guidance on locating the Strawberry Rain Frog, we gravitated towards the Californian Redwoods.
Thirty minutes into our woodland Forest hike, fortune smiled upon us. Beaming with delight, we beheld the diminutive creature we had long sought. Nearly seven years in the making, this achievement marked a significant milestone in our quest.
Following a flurry of photographs and videos, we gently returned the frog to its sandy habitat. Traversing the dense jungle canopy, we were captivated by the ethereal beauty of these ancient forests. A moss-covered wooden sign denoting the Redwoods with a small arrow beckoned us deeper into the lush embrace of towering Champion Redwood trees.
Descending the slopes towards the Duivenhoks River, we marvelled at the forestlike splendour surrounding us. Birdsong and the gentle murmur of the river accompanied our herping excursion as we revelled in the unspoiled tranquillity of this idyllic setting. Time seemed to lose significance as we temporarily escaped the burdens of reality.
Returning to base camp, our efforts were rewarded with discovering a second Strawberry Rain Frog. Another poignant encounter ensued, allowing us to admire this exquisite reptile before releasing it into its sandy abode.
The ensuing morning greeted us with a glorious sunrise and clear skies, ideal conditions for our cycling expedition through the Boosmansbos section of Grootvadersbosch. Vast expanses and deep canyons, sculpted by meandering rivers, unfolded before us. Cape Nature thoughtfully constructed scenic viewing decks at strategic intervals along our 6-kilometre cycling route, offering respite for a leisurely picnic whilst admiring the panoramic vistas across the valleys, dominated by the towering peak of Grootbeg at 1600 meters above sea level. The juxtaposition of our proximity to these majestic cliffs against the vast expanse of the landscape reminded us of a profound sense of insignificance.
As we cycled downhill towards our camp, we were enveloped by the fragrance of indigenous fynbos flora; we revelled in yet another breathtaking vista, a testament to the remarkable beauty of our surroundings. With temperatures soaring into the high thirties, we sought refuge by the pool, enjoying the recently upgraded facilities. Our compliments extend to Cape Nature for transforming the original camp into a world-class facility, mainly catering to families with children.
We left the following morning with a profound sense of fulfilment.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Cape Nature for curating a delightful outdoor experience for families. We recommend visiting this enchanting nature reserve for all enthusiasts of camping, the great outdoors, nature, and hiking, where endless exploration awaits.
Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve
Managed by Capenature:
The reserve’s 250ha of Southern Afrotemperate forest is the most prominent remaining example in the Langeberg. The reserve’s highest peak, Grootberg, is 1637 metres above sea level. Most of the thirty-five typical Southern Afrotemperate forests are present, including stinkwood, yellowwood, red alder and the dominant ironwood.
Visitors to this beautiful reserve will relish going into the forest on day walks and mountain biking trails. This is an excellent birding destination, with more than 196 bird species regularly spotted. Hikers will likely bump into bushbuck and spot baboons and smaller mammals on the trails. Sighting the Forest emperor butterfly and a subspecies of the rare Ghost frog would be the highlight of a visit here, as they can only be found in this particular forest.
Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve is a sanctuary of tranquillity, a place that seems to have sprung from the pages of a fairy tale. Visitors are enveloped in the gentle, dappled light of the indigenous forest as they hike and can cool off in the serene, tea-coloured river water, sheltered by ancient trees.
Grootvadersbosch is a hidden gem among the Western Cape reserves, its allure enhanced by its air of self-contained mystery. This is the place to be for those seeking a truly unique experience. Day walks, mountain biking trails, and the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area offer a variety of challenges for those who crave immersion in the Wilderness. A rare privilege awaits those who spot the forest emperor butterfly or a subspecies of the elusive ghost frog, both found exclusively in this forest. Cape Nature provides a range of accommodations, from newly refurbished cabins to comfortable and well-equipped campsites, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
Boosmansbos Wilderness Area
Boosmansbos Wilderness Area lies in the Lange-Berg mountains, 22 km northwest of Heidelberg, in the southwestern Cape. It is 14 200ha in extent and is incorporated into Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve. The name derives from a hermit living in the forest in the early 19th century. Boosmansbos was proclaimed a Wilderness Area in 1978 and managed to maintain its natural systems and safeguard its pristine environment. As part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, it was declared a World Heritage Site
in 2004.
Climate and landscape
The Langeberg mountains lie in the transitional zone between winter and all-year rainfall regions. Boosmansbos has an average annual rainfall of 1 050 mm. Drier periods are from May to July and December to January. Berg wind conditions prevail from May to July. Grootberg (1 637m) is the highest peak in Boosmansbos. Several rivers originate in the Wilderness Area, including the Duiwenhoks River and its tributary, the Noukrans River. The soils in this area are derived mainly from Table Mountain sandstone. Isolated pockets of Bokkeveld shales occur, and the indigenous forests are found on these.
Plants and animals
Mountain fynbos and forest vegetation occur in the Wilderness Area. There are several rare species, especially among the Erica family: Erica blenna, E. barryda- lensis and E. langebergensis. Mammals found here include grey reedbuck, klipspringer, grysbok, baboons, leopard, mongoose and genet. The area is affluent in birdlife, with 184 species recorded, including black, martial, crowned and booted eagles, red-winged and redneck francolins, black rumped buttonquail, and striped.
flufftail and Layard’s titbabbler.
Activities
As this is a Wilderness Area, the paths are unmarked, and huts provide only basic shelter. A rudimentary toilet facility is provided. Hikers should be well-equipped for rugged terrain and adverse weather conditions and must carry an accurate map of the area. A maximum of 12 people per day are allowed.
There are 64km of paths, and hikers may choose their routes. The circular two-day route indicated on the map is the preferred trail. This trail, mostly an old jeep track, leads up Loerklip and back down Saagkuilkloof. If heavy rains are experienced during the hike, it is advised to return via the Loerklip path as the Duiwenhoks River may be in flood.
Hikers should note that all refuse must be carried out and that fires are prohibited. Reservations are essential.
Enquiries & Reservations
Tel: 087 087 8250 or
E-mail: reservation.alert@capenature.co.za
Nature Reserve details
Initially known as Melkhoutskraal, the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve encompasses 250 hectares of indigenous forest in the Langeberg region, close to Heidelberg. The name translates to “big father” in honour of Roelof Oelofse, who owned the land in 1723. It has only been a reserve since 1986 and was declared a World Heritage Site in 2004.
Birdwatching
Nearly 200 bird species are regularly spotted in the reserve. Visitors should watch for black, crowned, and booted eagles, the rare striped flufftail, the narina trogon, and beautiful sunbirds and sugarbirds.
The forest area features two bird hides (pictured below), which are easily accessible via the hiking trails and provide excellent vantage points from which to view the many bird species in the nature reserve.
Hiking and Walking
There are a variety of day hikes and longer overnight trails available. Regardless of the trail length, visitors should heed trail advice, particularly the need to wear comfortable shoes, suntan lotion, and a hat and to carry sufficient water.
Hiking trails and maps
Hikers will enjoy the relatively easy three-to-four-hour hike on the Bushbuck Trail and the more challenging Grysbok Trail.
Please help us protect nature.
No pets/no firearms/no picking of flowers or collecting of seeds/no fires except in designated areas/no horse riding.
Permits
Permits may be purchased for R50 per adult and R30 per child at the reserve office or through Cape Nature Central Reservations.
We finally found our first Breviceps acutirostris. Also known as the common rain frog, strawberry rain frog, or Cape short-headed frog, it is a species of frog in the family Brevicipitidae.
Trail preparation
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat.
- Do not hike alone.
- Carry enough food and water with you.
- Make sure you know what the weather conditions are before you depart.
- Take a warm jacket/raincoat in winter.
- Make sure you have a relevant map of the area.
- Take a field medical kit with you for emergencies.
- Obey all signage.
- Stay in a group and on the trails.
- Please alert reserve staff once you have finished your hike so that they know you are safely off the trails.
- Please ensure that you bring along enough drinking water while hiking.
Bushbuck trail
Trail distance: 10km
Estimated time: 3-4 hours
This beautiful route wanders through mountain fynbos and indigenous forests, providing a shaded and relatively easy hike for all ages. The route loops in and around the indigenous forest, allowing hikers to visit bird hides in the forest and take them past most of the tree species in the reserve.
Grysboksirkel
Trail distance: 15km
Estimated time: 5-6 hours
The Grysboksirkel is a more challenging hike. It takes you out of the forest-covered valley, up the mountainside through the Fynbos area, and onto the ridge of the hills bordering the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area. The hike is a loop that will return you to the reserve road.
Mountain Biking
The reserve’s 250ha of Southern Afrotemperate forest is the most prominent remaining example in the Langeberg. The reserve’s highest peak, Grootberg, is 1637 metres above sea level. Most of the thirty-five typical Southern Afrotemperate forests are present, including stinkwood, yellowwood, red alder and the dominant ironwood.
Visitors to this beautiful reserve will relish going into the forest on day walks and mountain biking trails. This is an excellent birding destination, with more than 196 bird species regularly spotted. Hikers will likely bump into bushbuck and spot baboons and smaller mammals on the trails. Sighting the Forest emperor butterfly and a subspecies of the rare Ghost frog would be the highlight of a visit here, as they can only be found in this particular forest.
Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve has a magical, fairy tale quality, leaving visitors with the impression that they have entered another world. Hikers walk in the dappled light of the precious indigenous forest and swim in the cool tea-coloured river water shaded by ancient trees.
Grootvadersbosch is one of the less well-known reserves in the Western Cape. This is how it should be for those who love its air of self-contained mystery. Day walks, mountain biking trails, and the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area offer an array of challenges for those who want to immerse themselves in the Wilderness. A rare highlight would be a sighting of the forest emperor butterfly or a subspecies of the elusive ghost frog, as they can only be found in this forest. Cape Nature offers a range of accommodations, from newly refurbished cabins to comfortable and well-equipped campsites.
To learn more, download the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve brochure and maps.
How to get there
Take the N2 from Cape Town towards George. Proceed through the Swellendam and Buffelsjag Rivers. Approximately 1.5 km after the BP garage (on the right side), turn left at the Suurbraak/Barrydale signboard. Continue through the town of Suurbraak and past the turn-off for Barrydale via Tradouwpass. The tar road becomes a dirt road. Continue till a T-junction, turn left and keep left at the next fork in the road. The reserve is well signposted. The road ends at the entrance gates.
GPS: 33 59 08.4 S 20 49 24.7 E
General Information
Office hours: 07:00–16:00
Tel: +27 (0)28 492 0001
Accommodation and permit bookings Tel: 087 087 8250
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