River Valley Nature Reserve in Margate is truly a hidden gem! The picnic sites are absolutely perfect—well-maintained, serene, and surrounded by stunning natural beauty. It’s the ideal spot to relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere while enjoying quality time with family or friends.
The hiking trails are an absolute highlight. They’re well-marked and take you through breathtaking scenery, from lush forests to picturesque river views. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a gentle walk in nature, there’s something for everyone.
What made our stay even more special were the owners, John and Diane. Their passion for the reserve shines through in every detail, and they go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. The staff was incredibly friendly, always ready with a smile and helpful tips for exploring the area.
My parents stayed in one of the cottages, and it was a dream! Beautifully designed, cozy, and equipped with everything we needed for a comfortable stay. Waking up to the sounds of nature and enjoying a cup of coffee on the veranda was pure bliss.
A visit to The Farmer’s Wife shop is a must! It’s filled with unique, high-quality local products, delicious treats, and charming gifts. It’s the perfect place to grab a little piece of the reserve to take home or find a special souvenir.
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat with stunning views, great facilities, and warm hospitality, River Valley Nature Reserve is a must-visit. We can’t wait...
Read moreThis is the kind of place locals forget to tell you about. This small, but wonderfully diverse private nature reserve is just a stones throw from Ramsgate. The well-kept trails lead you through some fantastic examples of 3 different indigenous landscapes - grassland, coastal forest, and riverine. If you have a passion for Wildflowers, and other indigenous species, this is an excellent place to see them. For R25, day visitors can park on site, and either drive all the way up to the picnic spot, convenient for families with young children, or park at the entrance and make the 3km loop walk down and back again. The ticket includes entry, picnicking and braai facilities and fishing in the river. At the end of a fabulous day exploring all the interesting nooks and crannies that River View Nature Reserve has to offer, we retired back at The Farmer's Wife farmstall for a delicious frothy coffee and home baked scones. The shop supplies organic and vegan produce to the public. All in all this was a great day out, not too demanding, easy walking, and highly...
Read moreWhat a gem! The map is really easy to follow and each trail has something different to offer - from grassland to forest and when you reach the sandy riverbank it's a nice reminder of how close the ocean is. You'll enjoy it whether you go by yourself or take the whole family.
The picnic spot is lovely, right next to the river, with the option to catch fish and have a braai. There is also a play area for the kids. The views from the different look-out spots are breathtaking! We saw Impala on all the trails and the birdlife is abundant.
On top of that the "Farmer's Wife Farm Stall" has a selection of fresh produce, home-baked goods (sit down for a coffee and freshly baked cake) and other gift-worthy goodies. This is my new favorite hiking spot close to home....
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