Silvermine Nature Reserve

Silvermine Nature Reserve is a protected area in the Western Cape that spans several kilometers across the Cape Peninsula and contains diverse mountain vegetation. A river cuts through a rocky gorge and divides the terrain into two main sections connected by a mountain pass.

In the late 1800s, a dam was built here to channel water to the nearby city. Since the early 1900s, the area has grown into a popular outdoor recreation destination.

The name comes from the silvery shine of river stones that once caught visitors' attention. Today, walkers can still see these glistening pebbles in the streams, understanding the origin of the place's name.

The area can be explored on foot with trails of varying difficulty and length, ranging from short walks to several hours of hiking. It is best to arrive early in the day for good light and comfortable walking conditions.

The river here is one of the few completely undisturbed watercourses on the Cape Peninsula because it does not flow through any developed areas. This rarity makes it a place where visitors can see a natural river ecosystem without human interference.

Location: Western Cape

Elevation above the sea: 347 m

Part of: Table Mountain National Park

GPS coordinates: -34.10746,18.43550

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:04