Hermanus - Fernkloof Nature Reserve

On the northeastern outskirts of Hermanus, centered on the Mossel River, is Fernkloof Nature Reserve (area 1,446ha/3,572ac), which also takes in the Platberg, a hill to the north. Ranging in height between 63m/207ft and 842m/2,763ft, the reserve presents an interesting cross-section of the different types of fynbos vegetation and protea species. There are over 40 different Erica species, offering a succession of flower throughout the year. Over 100 species of birds have been recorded here, including a pair of crowned eagles which bred in the reserve. The visitor center, 500m/550yd from the entrance to the reserve, is the starting-point of a 40km/25mi long hiking trail running through the whole of the reserve (picnic areas).