Jonkershoek Nature Reserve
Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, affectionately referred to as “Jonkers” by the locals, operated by Cape Nature, one of South Africa’s foremost public conservation entities, is one of the jewels in the crown. Home to the majestic Jonkershoek Mountains and spectacular Jonkershoek Valley, the reserve, which includes the smaller Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve, is conveniently situated near the town of Stellenbosch, the hub of the famous Cape Wineland Region. The rugged Jonkershoek Mountains, part of the important Boland Mountain Complex, are ideal for trail runners of all levels looking for fantastic trails, spectacular views, and an opportunity to experience the region’s fascinating biodiversity and history. In addition to trail running, visitors to Jonkers can enjoy world-class hiking and MTB trails, birding, unique biodiversity, and the chance to swim under waterfalls in crisp, clear mountain streams. Jonkershoek Nature Reserve is 11 000ha of pristine protected wilderness, and functions as a mountain catchment area for the Eerste, Berg, Lourens and Riviersonderend Rivers (although only the Eerste (First) River flows through the Jonkershoek Valley. Jonkers contains a comprehensive network of maintained trails, while smaller Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve, at 204ha, home to the historical Assegaaibosch Farmstead, a National Monument built in 1792, is ideal for shorter outings. The sturdy stone Colonial Government Trout Hatchery, dating back to the late 1800s, is today used by Cape Nature as a conservation station.
