From its source in the Hottentots Holland Mountains to its mouth at Strand, the Lourens River extends over 23 km. It travels through fynbos, alien plantations and farmland, as well as residential, commercial and light industrial areas. The pristine mountain catchment area and upper reaches are not freely accessible, as they are on private estates. The estuary at the mouth is not accessible to the public, but may be viewed through the fence from Strand Beach.
Challenges
Invasive alien plants, such as the black wattle (Acacia mearnsii) and kikuyu grass (Pennisetum clandestinum), as well as dumping, littering, squatting and illegal abstraction of water, are ongoing challenges.
In the lower reaches, the river passes the golf course on its way to the estuary at Strand, where interesting birds may be spotted. Sadly, the river is often cluttered with unsightly rubbish, and the banks are overgrown with thick grass.
ADDRESS: Somerset West to Strand
OPENING HOURS: Not applicable
SIZE: The river is 23 km long.
ENTRANCE FEE: None
PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Taxi
ACTIVITIES AND FACILITIES: Picnic area, hiking trails, birdwatching
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION: No formal programme
CONTACT: Tel 021 851 6982; fax 021 851 2148
E-MAIL: helderbergnature.reserve@capetown.gov.za
WEBSITE: www.helderbergnaturereserve.co.za
Source: City of Cape Town (2010) City of Cape Town nature reserves: A network of amazing biodiversity. City of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
