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Nature reserve · Paarl, Cabo Ocidental
Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve
Reserve on the heights of Paarl mountain, with three large granite domes, fynbos trails and views over the Berg River valley.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve
Paarl mountain consists of three enormous granite domes, visible from a distance across the Berg River valley. In 1657, Dutch explorer Abraham Gabbema saw the rocks gleam after rain and called them 'pearl' and 'diamond', which gave the town its name.
The reserve protects the mountain top, with fynbos, proteas and small dams. A dirt road circles among the domes, and trails rise to Paarl Rock, the main dome, where a steel cable assists the final stretch, and to Bretagne Rock.
From the summit you can see the whole town, the Berg River valley, the farms and the Drakenstein mountains. There is also an old signal cannon, used in colonial times to signal the arrival of ships to Cape Town.
In the middle of the reserve is the Wildflower Garden (Meulwater), with native plants and a picnic area.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 2 hours to half a day.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, away from summer heat. Avoid climbing the domes in rain or strong wind: the rock is slippery.
How to get there
The entrance is on Jan Phillips Mountain Drive, above Paarl centre. By car only.
Tip
Bring water and shoes with good grip. The final ascent of Paarl Rock is short and steep, with a supporting cable.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve
Can you climb Paarl Rock?
Yes, via a trail that ends in a steep section with a steel hand cable for support.
Where does the name Paarl come from?
From Dutch for 'pearl', because of the shine of the granite domes after rain, as described by Abraham Gabbema in 1657.
How long should you spend in Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve?
From 2 hours to half a day, depending on the trails.