Snow is expected to hit the Western Cape and the winter chill along with it, providing the perfect excuse to grab the kids and head out to explore.
Snowfall generally occurs in, the Hottentots Holland, Cederberg, Matroosberg, Hex River Mountains, Franschhoek, Langeberge, Swartberge and along the Boland mountains.
As locals brave the icy weather for a chance to see some memorable winter scenes and take the perfect pictures, here’s a list of the nearest places to view the snow.
The Matroosberg Nature Reserve is located 174km and is a mere 2 hours and 15 minutes out of Cape Town. The Southern slopes located on the reserve will receive a heavy amount of snow and you can expect capped mountains for a few days after. The reserve also hosts a private ski-slope for those pros who can glide down the mountain. In 2017, Matroosberg received decent levels of snowfall, which is a good indicator of what to expect. The reserve also provides accommodation if you want to make a weekend of it.
Contact: 023 312 2282
Address: Erfdeel Farm, Matroosberg, Breede River, Western Cape
Website: www. matroosberg.com
Cederberg may be known for its dust bowl and mountainous area, but as the snow falls it creates a picturesque backdrop. Cape Town is situated two hours away from Citrusdal and the drive is beautiful, with snow you can expect it to be that much more stunning. There is usually snow on Sneeuberg Mountain and is one of the areas highest peaks.
Contact: 021 483 0190
Address: Citrusdal, Western Cape
Website: www.capenature.co.za
Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve
The Hottentots Holland Nature reserve stretches a from Elgin into Stellenbosch and is only 90km away from the city centre. This is the closest distance to travel to catch the snow. The nature reserve is known for its rugged terrain – making it a good place to head to. The highest peaks in the area are; Rifberg, The Triplets and Pike mountain – if you are brave enough to bare the chill then head a bit closer o experience a Christmas in July.
Contact: 021 483 0190
Address: Grabouw, Western Cape
Website: www.capenature.co.za
The Boland mountains are located near Stellenbosch and Paarl – this is also an area close to Cape Town, if you want to avoid traveling too far out. And while you’re in the area, stop off for a delicious glass of red wine. The Boland Mountains may be littered with white caps during the expected snowfall over the upcoming few days. There are five nature reserves; Kogelberg, Jonkershoek, Assegaaibosch, Hottentots and Limietberg. A drive to Kogelberg Nature Reserve is 110km away and takes up to 2 hours via the N2 and R44.
Contact: 028 271 5138
Address: Kogelberg Nature Reserve, Western Cape
Website: www.capenature.co.za
Picture: Facebook/ Matroosberg Nature Reserve / SnowReportSA