03/01/2025
De Mond Nature Reserve is situated 26 km southeast of Bredasdorp on the captivating southwestern Cape coast between Struisbaai and Arniston (Waenhuiskrans). It spans 954 hectares at the mouth of the Heuningnes River. Established in 1986, it remains a cherished destination for nature enthusiasts and avid hikers alike, offering serene picnics and invigorating hikes along scenic trails.
The renowned Sterna Trail, spanning 7 km and taking around 2 hours, starts near the reserve office. Named after the damara tern, this circular trail features a swaying suspension bridge over the Heuningnes River,
offering diverse scenery through riverine vegetation, dune forests and stabilised dunes, eventually revealing the splendor of the river mouth and saltmarshes before returning to the estuary mouth. (Please note that the bridge was closed when we visited on 1 January 2025.)
The Damara Trail stretches over 16.5 km, split into two days. The first
leg covers 5km in approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, while the
second leg spans 11.5km and takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes. This
linear coastal route from De Mond to Waenhuiskrans (Arniston) passes by
notable landmarks such as the Waenhuiskrans cave and historical fish traps, with remnants of an old shipping beacon adding to its allure.
Please see more descriptions at each photo.
