The Heuningberg Nature Reserve

The Heuningberg Nature Reserve

Xplorio Headquarters

The 800 hectares Heuningberg Nature Reserve is a wildflower garden that includes the Heuningberg Mountain. The reserve is a main attraction for Bredasdorp as the town is situated at the base of the mountain and the ideal place for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to begin their explorations. 

A trek to the summit of the mountain rewards visitors with panoramic views that include Arniston and De Hoop to the east, Struisbaai and Soetanysberg to the south, Elim to the south-west and views across the Rûens and Riviersonderend Mountains to the north. 

The Reserve had humble beginnings in 1964 when it was only 68 hectares in size and originally proclaimed the Bredasdorp Nature Reserve. At the time it was comprised predominantly of old quarries but the area was restored by terraces that can still be seen in the garden section today. In 1986 the Reserve was extended to include 800 hectares of land and the Heuningberg Mountain, which lead to the name being changed to the Heuningberg Nature Reserve. Half of the reserve is privately owned in the south around the Preekstoel rock. 

Eps Joubert, who was once a teacher at the Bredasdorp High School, realised the value of the Reserve and initiated the clearance of alien vegetation as well as creating the hiking trails where people could really enjoy everything the Reserve has to offer.  Where there were once patches of pines, gums, myrtle, acacias and rose in the garden there are now only indigenous plants. The reserve is made up of approximately 260 species of plants and 34 of which are endemic, such as the Bredasdorp Lily. Other flowers visitors can expect to find are Proteas, Serrurias, Ericas, Lobelias, Painted Ladies, Everlastings and more. 

The Heuningberg Nature Reserve is a must for anyone visiting Bredasdorp as the mesmerising beauty of the fynbos is sure to capture the hearts and imagination of outdoor lovers. There are also many birds that are attracted by the fynbos and an array of petite fauna that will keep many on the lookout. 

The Heuningberg Nature Reserve

Xplorio

Xplorio is a marketing company that has created a digital platform to help local communities in the Overberg accurately represent themselves online. The user-friendly Xplorio platform allows towns and businesses to create an online presence that is accurate and true to life. This representation help...

View Profile

Recent Posts

Exploring the Overberg: South Africa’s Coastal Gem

Exploring the Overberg: South Africa’s Coas...

Stretching from the dramatic peaks of the Kogelberg to the windswept shores of Walker Bay Nature Reserve.

The Longest Zipline on the Planet is in the Overberg!

The Longest Zipline on the Planet is in the O...

Experience the thrill of the world’s longest zipline near Caledon in the Overberg!

Meet Gansbaai’s First Family: The Strand Street Geese!

Meet Gansbaai’s First Family: The Strand St...

In Gansbaai, we have our very own First Family - and no, they don’t live in a mansion or run a country. 

Enter the Overberg Crossword Challenge for a Chance to Win R500!

Enter the Overberg Crossword Challenge for a ...

Explore the wonders of Overberg while having fun with Xplorio’s crossword puzzle, and stand a chance to win R500!

Things to Do This Winter in the Overberg

Things to Do This Winter in the Overberg

The Overberg offers a perfect getaway for those wanting adventure and relaxation in winter.

'Kelders van Geheime': Local Actor in New ETV Sitcom!

'Kelders van Geheime': Local Actor in New ETV...

Gansbaai is abuzz with excitement! One of its own, Geon Nel stars in Kelders van Geheime, eTV's first Afrikaans sitcom.