Blaauwkrantz Nature Reserve
Blaauwkrantz Nature Reserve - Western Region, Eastern Cape © Blaauwkrantz Nature Reserve
Located 22 km from Grahamstown, in the rugged Blaauwkrantz Gorge, lies the
Blaauwkrantz Nature Reserve which covers a total area of 200 ha on the banks of
the Blaaukrantz River. The reserve displays a diverse variety of Eastern
Province thornveld vegetation which includes over two hundred plant
species. The region is charcterised by rocky outcrops, and magnificent specimens
of aloes and tree euphorbias, also known as Candelabra trees.
The Blaauwkrantz Nature Reserve is managed by the Algoa Regional Services
Council, and also serves as a decent birding destination with 185 species
being spotted in the reserve.
An interesting variety of mammals can also be see in the Blaauwkrantz Nature Reserve, including bushbuck, vervet monkey, rock hyrax (a.k.a. rock dassie) and the Cape clawless otter. Of particular importance in the Blaaukrantz Nature Reserve is a rare and almost extinct fish called the Eastern Province rocky (Sandelia bainsii), found in pools along the Blaauwkrantz River. The reserve features an environmental education centre containing much information on the area.
Rock climbing at Blaauwkrantz Nature Reserve is another popular activity,
with the rugged cliffs of Blaauwkrantz Gorge providing challenging climbs for
all levels of mountaineering.
Located at the bottom of the Blaaukrantz Gorge, lies a magnificent pool, known
as the Blaauwkrantz Pool. Legend has it that these pools are the home of "The
People of the River" also known as Abantu Bomlambo. According to Xhosa
cosmology, the People of the River are believed to live beneath the water with
their crops and cattle, and are often consulted by initiates before they are
trained as sangomas or diviners. Those who gain approval are said to be taken
into the depths of a pool to join their society for a time. Those who are
rejected by the People of the River drown.
Accommodation Near Blaauwkrantz Nature Reserve
A Stone's Throw
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Grahamstown
15.8km from Blaauwkrantz Nature ReserveFreedom is a stone's throw away...stunning sunsets - country garden setting - spectacular views - bird lover's delight - swimming pool - scenic walks - children welcome. Warm Eastern Cape Hospitality! …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
1 on Ross
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Grahamstown
20.8km from Blaauwkrantz Nature Reserve1 on Ross consists of three cottages nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac just off Henry Road. It has a beautiful garden which featured in the Gardens of Grahamstown show, pool and offers braai facilities. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Jenny's B&B
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Grahamstown
21.6km from Blaauwkrantz Nature ReserveExperience warm South African hospitality with home from home comforts at Jenny's B&B. Situated in a tranquil suburb in Grahamstown, heart of Settler country, with a picturesque garden, perfect for a restful stay. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Dockside Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Port Alfred
27.1km from Blaauwkrantz Nature ReserveDockside Guest House is situated directly across the picturesque small boat harbour on the East Bank of beautiful Port Alfred, in the Eastern Cape - situated midway - exactly 150km between the cities of East London and Port Elizabeth. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Ripples
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Port Alfred
27.6km from Blaauwkrantz Nature ReserveRipples is a large, newly refurbished luxury self-catering property situated in a prime location on the west bank of the River Kowie, in the picturesque Eastern Cape coastal town of Port Alfred; ideally suited for group holidays, family reunions and bespo …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Sibuya Game Reserve
Game Reserve And Bush Lodge Accommodation in Grahamstown
29km from Blaauwkrantz Nature ReserveThe delightfully scenic Kariega River estuary winds its way through wooded thickets and steep banks before opening out onto wide, grassy flats and sandbanks just upstream of the Indian Ocean mouth …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Dunwerkin
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Kenton-on-sea
29.4km from Blaauwkrantz Nature ReserveTwo x2 bedroomed en-suite luxury up-market units each with fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, comfortable living area with full DStv and DVD. Ceilings fans and underfloor heating throughout. Private patio with patio furniture, Weber braai, ... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
