The Blaauwberg Nature Reserve has recently opened its brand new self-catering accommodation unit to the public.
The self-catering unit, which is a renovated World War II Officers Mess building, sleeps up to four guests (two single beds and a double bunk bed) n an open-plan bedroom. The unit’s doors lead onto a deck from which all of the spectacular views from the top of Blaauwberg Hill can be seen.
The unit features green technology – there is no municipal electricity. Instead, photovoltaic solar panels charge the batteries that provide light. A gas-operated stove and fridge/freezer are provided. There is also an outdoor shower with a gas geyser, as well as a self-composting toilet (no flushing needed). Guests are encouraged to use biodegradable products if possible and to use water sparingly during their stay.
The lounge, dining room and kitchenette opens up onto a deck, allowing a cool breeze to circulate. The kitchen area is equipped with the basics and a braai area with a Weber braai is available. Parking is a few metres from the unit via a gravel path.
Visitors will enjoy magnificent views down fynbos slopes, across the city, to seven kilometres of rocky and sandy coastline, the ocean and beyond. The nature reserve presents itself as one of the few viewpoints in the world from which you can see two proclaimed World Heritage Sites i.e. Table Mountain and Robben Island.
The unit is named Montispectus, after the Bloubergstrand dwarf burrowing skink (Scelotes montispectus) that was first discovered in the reserve in 2002. It means “to behold the mountain”.
Capetonians are encouraged to book well in advance for Spring and Summer. Montispectus can be booked through the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve Administrative Offices on 021 554 0957 or via Blaauwberg.NatureReserve@capetown.gov.za.
Tariffs are as follows:
- Per night (1 – 2 persons): R600
- Additional persons: R100 each
- Key deposit: R200
- Daily conservation fee: R12 (adult 18+); R6 (children 3 – 17 years); R17 (per vehicle).
For more information on Blaauwberg Nature Reserve, please visit www.capetown.gov.za/naturereserves, or for information on the the Friends of Blaauwberg Conservation Area, please visit www.bca.org.za.
