Two hiking trails are available to hikers in the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve:

Coastal Dune Hiking Trail *

This is open to the public, starts and ends at Eerste Steen, the official office of the Reserve.  Its distance is about 4.4km, with a hiking time of approximately 1½ hours.  The trail meanders through threatened Cape Flats dune strandveld vegetation, and follows the historical routes used in the area dating back to the early 1900s.  Points of interest along the trail include an old milkwood tree, a well point and a kraal. Shell middens and archaeological remains along the coastline as well as to the east of Blaauwberg Hill are also present and are testament to the indigenous Khoikhoi communities who once inhabited this landscape.  The Eerste Steen area also features picnic sites, braai areas, surfing, windsurfing, birdwatching, whale-watching and fishing (permit required).

Opening Hours:

Coastal section and trails: Mon to Sun – Sunrise to sunset
Eerste Steen Braai and Picnic facilities: Nov to Apr 08h00 – 19h00; May to Oct 08h00 – 17h00

Blaauwberg Two Hills Hiking Trail

The trail is 7.3 kms long and not open to the public.  However, a walk on the trail is normally held on the last weekend of each month under guidance of an FoBCA committee member. Hiking times are approximately 3-4 hours which includes a recreational stop on Blaauwberg Hill, and an informative talk on the Battle of Blaauwberg. The World War II buildings on top of Blaauwberg Hill still stand and are of historical significance.  Hikers will be able to enjoy stunning views showing two World Heritage Sites, namely Robben Island and Table Mountain.  The trail is normally advertised to the public in community newspapers, as well as communicated to FoBCA members.

See Upcoming Events for the next hike.

Battle of Blaauwberg Walk

This walk focuses on the Battle of Blaauwberg of 1806 that took place on the eastern section of the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve.  There will be an overview of the Battle, and you will be shown the route taken by the British 1st Brigade on their march from Melkbosstrand into position on the day.  The group then follows in the footsteps of the 2nd Brigade Scottish Highland Regiments as they charged the Batavian line, and establish where General Janssens assembled his Batavian defence line against the invading British force.  A map and brief of the Battle will be provided to assist in your understanding of this historic event which influenced Africa.

The talk is led by registered tour guide Dave Honour, who is also an expert on KZN battle sites.  

For more information or to book, please call/sms Dave Honour at 082 906 4875 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  See also Upcoming Events on the Home Page for the date of the next Battle Walk.

Visitor Safety Tips

To ensure that your visit is enjoyable and trouble free we ask that you read these safety hints.

Preparation:

• Save the emergency number to your cellphone - Tel: 021 480 7700.
• Check the weather beforehand and make sure it is not raining.
• Wear and pack proper walking gear if needed: good walking shoes, sunblock, water, and warm, waterproof clothing.

Parking:

• Never leave your goods/valuable items visible in the vehicle.
• Always lock your vehicles doors and keep the windows closed.
• Never leave your vehicle unattended when possible.

Walking and/or hiking:

• Never walk alone – rather go in a small group and stick together.
• Start heading back well before dark and keep to well-marked paths.

Swimming and water sport:

• Swim in areas that are supervised by a lifeguard.
• Never swim alone.
• Never drink alcohol before swimming, diving or boating.

General:

• Be observant. Always take note of your surroundings.
• Never leave your possessions unattended.
• Move into the shade every so often if on the beach for a long period.

Contacts:

• General queries, please contact the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve on Tel: 021 444 0454 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
• Report any suspicious vehicles / persons / activity to: Melkbosstrand police (SAPS) Tel: 021 553 8200 or Table View police (SAPS) Tel: 021 521 3300

Public group on top of Kleinberg Last uphill to the top Public group on the verandah of Montispectus

Spring and some beautiful views from top Roy Fuller-Gee (chairman) explaining some aspects of the Battle of Blaauwberg Bloubergsvlei in the front with snowy peaks in the distance

The Reserve stretches to the sea Start of Renosterveld Trail Beautiful Table Mountain view