Nestled on the tip of Cape St Francis between a plethora of coastal holiday homes in the St Francis Bay area is the beautiful Cape St Francis Nature Reserve. This area is not only one of incredible natural beauty, rich in both plant life and animal life, but it is also extremely popular among residents and holiday-goers alike.
Exploring the reserve, you will find that the abundance of fauna and flora is not only captivating but incredibly special. The area is engulfed by so many different and amazing plant species that it falls under the Cape Floral Kingdom which is recognised as one of only six plant or floral kingdoms in the world.
These plants are not scattered randomly across the landscape. Instead, from one hill to the next, different plant species grow together in their own communities. This means that the entire region is divided into these vegetation types, comprising plant species that grow in their particular area and nowhere else. Botanists from all over the world have visited the area discovering new species of plant life that are only found in this area.
What else can you expect to see along your journey?
The Cape St Francis Nature Reserve is an endangered coastal dune forest which is protected and offers its visitors unhindered views of the warm Indian ocean which is teeming with marine life. On your walk, you may have the opportunity to spot some dolphins playing in the surf, penguins, marine birds, seals and even sea otters. Between the months of July and December, many residents and holidaymakers flock to the area to view the majestic Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales which can be seen breaching, lobtailing and spy-hopping across the coastline.
Marine life is not the only aspect of the trip you need to look forward to. The wildlife in the reserve itself is just as spectacular. Some of the animals you will have the pleasure of viewing include game like bushbuck, grysbok, duiker, porcupine, bushpig, monkey, mongoose and even the elusive caracal.
If you're a bird enthusiast, then you will be happy to know the area is home to over 200 species of birds which includes the Denham's Bustard, White-bellied Korhaan, Long-tailed Widowbird, Red-capped and Rufous-naped Larks, Common Stonechat and Blackwinged Lapwing.
The reserve offers a trail that is approximately a one-hour walk and is completely free for visitors to explore. So you can go spend the day taking in all the natural beauty surrounding you before heading off for something to drink or a bite to eat at one of the many fabulous restaurants nearby.
A nature reserve protected for future generations
Cape Saint Francis Nature Reserve is a highly protected area and falls under the care of Foster, which is a voluntary organisation that has taken on the management role for the Seal Bay, Cape St Francis, Irma Booysen & Seal Point Nature Reserves. This ensures that the reserve will remain breathtakingly beautiful every time you visit whether it's now or in the future. You are able to join Foster as a member should you like to be involved in the conservation processes, otherwise they accept donations as well.
The St Francis Bay area that surrounds the reserve
St Francis Bay is a beautifully lush, family-orientated neighbourhood with so much on offer for its residents. With gorgeous surroundings, various amenities and a safe and clean reputation, more and more people are looking to move to this stunning area. Whether you are looking to relocate or invest, Seeff has a wide variety of homes available near Cape Saint Francis Nature Reserve and other amenities you love. If you would like to know more or simply wish to browse, check out our properties for sale or our property rentals today.