Nature reserve. It covers approximately 34,000 hectares and includes a marine protected area extending 5 km into the ocean. Established in 1957, it is managed by CapeNature and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Cape Floral Region.
The climate is Mediterranean, with mild winters and warm summers. The month of August sees the greatest amount of rainfall. The vegetation is represented by rare lowland fynbos, one of the most unique floral communities in the world.
The reserve is home to over 86 species of mammals, including the Cape mountain zebra, bontebok, elands, grey rhea, baboons, caracals and leopards. The marine part serves as a breeding ground for southern right whales, which can be observed from May to November. There are also dolphins, seals and over 250 species of fish. Birds number around 260 species, including the rare Cape vulture.
Popular activities include walking, cycling, whale and bird watching, snorkelling, sandboarding and routes such as the Whale Trail, a five-day trek along the coast. Accommodation options range from secluded villas to family cottages, including the Melkkamer, which has no electricity.
The eastern part of the reserve is used for missile testing at the Denel Overberg Test Range, but access to it is closed early.