Knersvlakte

Knersvlakte is a nature reserve in South Africa's Western Cape province, featuring rolling hills covered entirely with white quartz gravel. The landscape extends between Klawer and Kliprand, creating a distinctive pale terrain that stands out from the surrounding countryside.

The name originated from the crunching sound of wagon wheels grinding against hard quartz stones during early settlement and travel through the region. This onomatopoeia reflects the experience of early travelers crossing the rocky terrain.

The reserve supports 1,500 plant species, including 190 endemic varieties, making it one of the most concentrated areas of succulent plant diversity worldwide.

Access to the reserve is easiest through Vanrhynsdorp, where information and guidance are available for visitors. Plan your visit during cooler months when the white stones do not reflect excessive heat from the sun.

The white quartz stones reflect sunlight and create cooler surface temperatures compared to darker rock areas nearby. This natural cooling effect allows specialized plants to thrive in what would otherwise be an inhospitable environment.