The Cape’s favourite dams and rivers to cool off in

The Cape is known for its beautiful natural surroundings – this is why outdoor activities such as hiking and paragliding are so popular here. However, there are more leisurely outdoor activities to enjoy, especially when the weather is hot.

Here is a list of the Cape’s favourite dams and rivers to cool off in:

1. The Silvermine Reservoir

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Silvermine Reservoir. . . . #silverminereservoir #reservoir #silvermine #silverminereserve #silverminenaturereserve #southafrica #capetown #iphonephotography #iphonephotograph #mobilephotography #myfeatureshoot #artofvisuals #dreamermagazine #somewheremagazine #etczine #archivecollectivemag #ourmag #ourmomentum #pixsoulmag #visualpleasuremag #fineartphoto #blackandwhite #blackandwhitephotography #bnw #bnw_captures #blackandwhiteonly #whyconcept #forbiddenart #visualcreators #visualsgang

A post shared by Tarquin Wyeth (@tarquinw) on Feb 23, 2019 at 12:02am PST

This reservoir is one of the most popular in the region, and is one of the most conveniently-located freshwater swimming spots around. Follow a short boardwalk just off the beautiful Ou Kaapse Weg road, and you’re there. There is an entrance fee to pay at the gate, and visitors are allowed to hike, swim, braai and picnic in the region.

Location: Table Mountain National Park, Table Mountain (Nature Reserve), Cape Town

2. Crystal Pools

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Crystal Pools???? #kogelberg #southafrica #capetownhikes #sunrise #lovecapetown #crystalpools #shotleft #naturalpools #hikingadventures #capetown #hikingsa #mountains #nature #hikingviking #sunshine #outdoors #summer #landscape #clouds #hikinglife #cliffjumping #explorer #naturelover #potd #landscape #hikingtrail #planetearth #earthfocus #endorphinewarriors #trailblazershikingclub

A post shared by Trailblazers Hiking Club (@trailblazershikingclub) on Apr 18, 2017 at 10:43pm PDT

The Crystal Pool Hiking Trail begins on the R44, after crossing a bridge over the mouth of Steenbras River. Permits must be booked ahead of time, and these are checked once you arrive. Only 50 people are allowed to visit the pools daily to prevent overcrowding.

Location: Kogelberg Nature Reserve Trail, Helderberg Rural, Cape Town, 7135

3. Beaverlac Nature Reserve

 

View this post on Instagram

 

?

A post shared by Cerys Faith Raine (@cerrie.raine) on Jan 11, 2020 at 3:10am PST

Beaverlac is well-known for its beautiful scenery and idyllic swimming pools. Natural rock pools form the perfect swimming spots and waterfalls make it a beautiful sight to drink in. The reserve is no longer open to day visitors, but there are great campsites for an overnight adventure.

Location: Porterville, 6810

4. Bainskloof

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Nothing quite like a cool, clear, clean pool and a rock from which to spring! #bainskloof #capetown #southafrica #kloofing

A post shared by Matthew Dowling (@hyraxadventures) on Jan 11, 2020 at 10:29pm PST

Bainskloof is a beautiful place to explore on foot, and there are several hikes through the pass. The hikes can get you to the Witte River, which is perfect for swimming. If you intend to hike and swim, make sure to plan ahead and purchase permits from Bainskloof Corner Lodge.

Location: Bainskloof Rd, Wellington, 7655

5. Solms-Delta

 

View this post on Instagram

 

@cindyreynders private island

A post shared by Kimon Alexis Sitas (@kimon_alexis) on Mar 28, 2016 at 1:14am PDT

While Solms-Delta is better known for being one of Franschhoek’s most beautiful wine estates, visitors also have the option of swimming in the beautiful Dwars River. It is recommended that you purchase a picnic basket from the in-house restaurant and make your way to one of the allocated spots along the quiet stream.

Location: Solms-Delta, Delta Road off the R45, Groot Drakenstein, Franschhoek Valley

6. Berg River

 

View this post on Instagram

 

?

A post shared by lindsay de vries . (@lindsaydvries22) on Jan 8, 2020 at 8:13am PST

The Berg River Resort has something for everyone. Facilities include a 3,5m deep Olympic pool, a kiddie’s pool, waterslide and the river which is ideal for swimming and canoeing. Berg River resort is the perfect place to visit for a family braai, a picnic, school outing, birthday gathering or a team-building event.

Location: R45 Franschhoek Road, Paarl South, 7624

7. Breede River

 

View this post on Instagram

 

This place for me was a ‘safe place’, growing up I spent every chrissy holiday here ?, this is the place I got to de stress and recoup each year. This time we got to share it with @bethannebrand @charlesbrand1 & @benjibrand which was just a dream come true. Dreaming of these days spent lazing in the river. I also got to do one of my best down wind paddles of life ?. I wish we had a GoPro on us that day because you wouldn’t believe it unless you saw it! Thank you mama and pops for making it happen ☀️ @maryrosebailey @seton_bailey

A post shared by Tessa Brand (@tessanicolajayne) on Jan 14, 2020 at 7:09pm PST

Breede is a long river that runs through several Western Cape towns, including Worcester, Ceres, Swellendam and Witsand before flowing into the Indian Ocean. There are several swimming spots along the 337 km river, but the best ones are located in the Bontebok National Park.

Location: Swellendam, 6740

Picture: Stefintheclouds88/Instagram