Melkbosstrand is situated north of Bloubergstrand and takes it’s name from the milkwood trees growing to the north of the town. The water is cold for swimming, but the fishing in the area is excellent. Rock lobsters are common on the reefs but are protected south of the village – an area but forms part of a crayfish sanctuary stretching from Die Josie (close to Chapman’s Peak) to Melkbosstrand.

NATURE

Koeberg Nature Reserve

The reserve plays a pivotal role in the conservation of the area’s ecology, especially since the development of industrial and residential properties along the coast. A number of unique coastal land forms, wetlands and different vegetation communities are protected in this area. Strandveld is especially being threatened by the fast expanding Cape Town metropolitan area, poorly planned coastal development, farming and mining. It is these factors that could ultimately lead to the decline and disappearance of the strandveld. At present, only 0,74 % of strandveld is South Africa is being conserved and the reserve actively protects this veld type which occurs naturally in the area. Before the Koeberg Nature Reserve was proclaimed, only 32 % of the original sand plain fynbos was left, of which 1,4 % was being conserved. With the proclamation of the reserve these figures have increased.

Hiking Trails

The Grysbok Trail

These are two options on this trail. The first is a 2,5 km loop that meanders through fynbos and which offers fine views of Table Mountain. The second is 1,9 km in length and includes a walk down to the beach and around a salt pan.

The Dikkop Trail

There area two alternatives on this trail. The first, is a circular 13 km hike and includes a stroll along the beach, pristine strandveld and a stretch of dune veld. This route is particularly spectacular during the springtime when the hiker can view an amaizing show of wild flowers. The second option is a shorter 8 km trail.

Animal Life in the Reserve

An abundance of animals occur in the reserve. A variety of antelope is present, and the visitor can observe them in their natural and unspoiled habitat. Predators such as the African Wild Cat, grey mongoose and genet occupy the reserve, and the visitor might even encounter the caracal (rooikat), the largest predator in the area. If one looks carefully enough even reptiles can be observed firsthand. Commonly found species include the Cape cobra (geelslang), mole snake, boomslang, skaapsteker and the angulated tortoise. There are over 156 recorded bird species in the reserve, making for hours of uninterrupted bird watching.

The Reserve as a Resource

The Koeberg Nature Reserve is managed as a sustainable natural resource and is there to serve the community. Socio-economic factors have been incorporated into the management strategy of the reserve, so that the local and wider community derives a number of benefits from it’s existence.

Water Usage

The Western Cape Regional Services Council (WCRSC) in conjunction with the CSIR draws water from an underground aquifer on the reserve – a natural underground lake, and pumps this water to Atlantis for industrial and domestic use.

Wood Harvesting

A well co-ordinated programme is presently underway to control the spread of Acaria Cyclops (rooikrantz) and Acacia saligna (Port Jackson). Both rooikrantz and Port Jackson are regarded as weeds and pose a real threat to the indigenous fauna and flora in the area. Woodcutters area allowed to cut thses alien species down and sell the wood to the public. Not only is the alien vegetation being eradicated, but the local community is deriving financial benefit from the programme.

ATTRACTIONS

Beaches

A sandy beach popular for fishing, walking and picnicking.

Klein Zoute River Mouth

Renowned for it’s excellent windsurfing conditions.

WHERE TO STAY

Beach Villa Guest House

Beach Villa Guest House is literally on the beach with views of Table Mountain in the distance and the Atlantic on your doorstep. Tastefully furnished en suite bedrooms with beach and sea views, four poster beds, TV (MNET and German Channel), telephone, bar, fridge, safe, optional Jacuzzi etc. enjoy leiserly breakfasts. Within walking distance of restaurants. Tours and car hire arranged. Airport transfers, fax and laundry service.

Accommodation in and around Melkbosrand