Palmiet River Nature Reserve is a hidden gem just 15 minutes from the bustling city of Durban in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province. This 90-hectare reserve is named after the Palmiet River that runs through it and is a peaceful haven for nature lovers and bird watchers alike.
The reserve boasts over 150 different bird species, 170 tree species, and 15 km of trails for both self-guided and guided walks. Visitors can explore the winding river and the hills above it, taking in the beauty of the gnarled tree roots and the diverse wildlife that call the reserve home. From vervet monkeys playing along the riverbanks to bushbuck roaming the trails, the reserve is a hub of activity for animals and plants alike.
For those interested in guided tours, the reserve offers birding trails and snake awareness talks for both adults and children. The reserve is also always in need of conservation volunteers and trains teenagers to become Palmiet Rangers, giving them hands-on experience in preserving the local ecosystem.
In order to protect the wildlife, dogs are discouraged in the reserve, and trail running is not allowed. This has allowed porcupines, duiker, bushbuck, snakes, genets, and monkeys to make the reserve their home. Additionally, the reserve is of archaeological interest, with the Igwalagwala cliff being the site of an archaeological dig that uncovered numerous artefacts now housed at the Bergtheil Museum.
Popular activities and tourist destinations at Palmiet River Nature Reserve
Firkin Hophouse Micro Brewery & Pub
Palmiet River Nature Reserve is not only a haven for nature lovers and bird watchers, but also for beer enthusiasts. Just a short drive away, in Durban’s Pavillion Shopping Centre, lies the Firkin Hophouse Micro Brewery & Pub. Here, visitors can take a tour of the brewery and learn about the onsite brewing process, as well as taste all four of the locally brewed beers.
The beers, with alcohol content ranging from 3 to 5 percent, are made from a combination of locally sourced malt and English malt, and 100% South African hops from George. The micro brewery produces up to 16,000 litres of beer every month, each with its own unique and quirky character. For those who are fans of Guinness, the St Patrick’s Porter is a dark beer similar to the Irish brew but with a lighter taste. Other options include Bishop’s Bitter, Pale Ale, and Oscar’s Hophouse Larger, which has a mild taste and is a great option for those who are not big beer drinkers.
So, whether you’re exploring the beauty of Palmiet River Nature Reserve or just looking for a new craft beer to try, the Firkin Hophouse Micro Brewery & Pub is a must-visit destination. With its unique blends and local flavors, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a cold beer after a day of exploring.
The Pavilion Shopping Centre
The Pavilion Shopping Centre, located just 20 kilometers from the bustling city center of Durban, is a popular tourist destination near Palmiet River Nature Reserve. This mall offers a wide range of shopping options, from convenience stores to boutiques and speciality shops. The recently renovated food court is home to over 40 family-friendly restaurants and coffee shops, including well-known chains like Nando’s and Mugg & Bean.
The Pavilion also provides a range of amenities to make your shopping experience as enjoyable and convenient as possible. These include dedicated parking spaces for mothers with young children, as well as those with disabilities, family rooms, gift-wrapping facilities, and even a Muslim prayer room.
For families with young children, the mall offers an array of entertainment options, including a skate park, superbowling, arcade games, and a 12-screen Nu Metro cinema with wheelchair and booster seats available. This means that while parents can enjoy some solo shopping, kids will have plenty to keep them busy.
The Pavilion is known for its commitment to excellent customer service and friendly vibe, making it an inviting destination for both locals and tourists from all over the world. Whether you’re looking to collect keepsakes, indulge in a little retail therapy, or simply enjoy some great food, the Pavilion is the perfect place to spend a day.
Make A Teddy Bear
Make A Teddy Bear, located in Durban near the Palmiet River Nature Reserve, is a unique and fun experience for both young and old. The workshop offers guests the chance to build their very own teddy bear from scratch, starting with the selection of a basic bear character and ending with the grooming, wardrobe selection, and official naming. The process involves seven stations, including ‘Choose Me’, ‘Hear Me’, ‘Stuff Me’, ‘Stitch Me’, ‘Fluff Me’, ‘Dress Me’, and ‘Name Me’.
At each station, the bear builders will guide guests through the process of building their bear, including the insertion of a sound chip, stuffing, placement of a red satin heart, sealing stitch, barcoding, grooming, wardrobe selection, and official naming. The workshop offers a wide range of clothing choices, including designer bear couture, fun fashions, licensed brands, and hero costumes.
The teddy bears crafted at Make A Teddy Bear are truly one-of-a-kind, as each bear has a unique barcode that is matched with its creator’s details. This means that if the bear is lost and returned to any workshop across the world, it will be reunited with its maker. The official naming is captured on a global database, and a birth certificate is issued, so the creator can celebrate their bear’s “bear-thday” with a teddy bear’s picnic. These workshops are great for indoor weather days, and the crafted teddy companions are sure to be friends forever.
Make A Teddy Bear, located in Durban near the Palmiet River Nature Reserve, is a unique and fun experience for both young and old. The workshop offers guests the chance to build their very own teddy bear from scratch, starting with the selection of a basic bear character and ending with the grooming, wardrobe selection, and official naming. The process involves seven stations, including ‘Choose Me’, ‘Hear Me’, ‘Stuff Me’, ‘Stitch Me’, ‘Fluff Me’, ‘Dress Me’, and ‘Name Me’.
At each station, the bear builders will guide guests through the process of building their bear, including the insertion of a sound chip, stuffing, placement of a red satin heart, sealing stitch, barcoding, grooming, wardrobe selection, and official naming. The workshop offers a wide range of clothing choices, including designer bear couture, fun fashions, licensed brands, and hero costumes.
The teddy bears crafted at Make A Teddy Bear are truly one-of-a-kind, as each bear has a unique barcode that is matched with its creator’s details. This means that if the bear is lost and returned to any workshop across the world, it will be reunited with its maker. The official naming is captured on a global database, and a birth certificate is issued, so the creator can celebrate their bear’s “bear-thday” with a teddy bear’s picnic. These workshops are great for indoor weather days, and the crafted teddy companions are sure to be friends forever.
Pavilion Food Court
The Pavilion Food Court at the Pavilion Shopping Centre in Westville is a recently renovated, must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. With the addition of new parking spaces, visitors can easily access the food court located on the Cinema Level, which forms part of the entertainment section of the shopping centre.
Designed to cater to movie-goers and shoppers, the food court offers a diverse range of dining options to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a sit-down meal, the food court has you covered with a selection of both old and new restaurants. From classic fast food options like KFC, Steers, and Debonairs Pizza, to more upscale dining experiences at Adega and Coconut Grove, there’s something for everyone at the Pavilion Food Court.
The Nu Metro Cinema Complex has also been upgraded, with the addition of four new theatres, including two luxurious cinemas complete with leather recliners and dining amenities. So, why not make a night of it and enjoy a movie followed by a delicious meal at one of the food court’s many restaurants?
For dessert, you can indulge in sweet treats from popular chains like Milky Lane, Cups and Cones, and I Drink Bubble Milk Tea. The Pavilion Food Court truly offers a unique dining experience and a taste of the exciting developments happening in Westville.
Ricksha bus tour
The Ricksha bus tour is a popular activity for tourists visiting Durban and is a great way to explore the city’s central attractions. The tour takes you through a variety of destinations, including the Victoria Street Market, Francis Farewell Square, the beachfront, the Berea, Florida Road, Mitchell Park, Morningside, the Cube viewpoint, Wilson’s Wharf, and the city centre. With a knowledgeable tour guide on board, visitors can ask questions and learn about the various sights along the way, including highlights such as the oldest cemetery, City Hall, Moses Mabhida Stadium, and Juma Musjid Mosque.
This city tour experience operates twice daily, with tours departing at 9am and 1pm and two refreshment stops along the way. The bright blue and orange double-decker bus is easy to spot, and the three-hour tour provides a comprehensive overview of Durban for first-time visitors. While the original departure location was the Old Pavillion Site, it has since moved to uShaka Marine World, so it is important to check beforehand to ensure you are at the correct meeting location. There is also an office at North Beach.
Addington Beach
Palmiet River Nature Reserve is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Located near the popular Addington Beach, the reserve is known for its stunning sandy stretches, warm waters, and lush greenery. This natural wonder is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities like swimming, stand-up paddling, body-boarding, hydrofoiling, and surfing. The area is well-protected, with shark nets and lifeguards on duty all year round, making it a safe place for families and those learning to surf.
In addition to these water activities, Addington Beach is also great for those who love to bask in the sun, go for long walks, or enjoy picnics. The beach is surrounded by restaurants and bars, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring. And with its close proximity to the city center and the King Shaka International Airport, it is an easily accessible destination for travelers.
For those looking for an underwater adventure, there are plenty of opportunities for snorkelling or scuba diving. The coast off KwaZulu-Natal is home to an array of marine life and flora that is truly a sight to behold. Pack your gear and discover the beauty of the ocean.
Overall, Addington Beach and the Palmiet River Nature Reserve are must-visit destinations for those looking for a day of fun in the sun, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
The Bergtheil Museum
The Bergtheil Museum, located in the picturesque suburb of Westville, is a unique destination for visitors interested in the history of Natal and the German settlers who played a significant role in its development. The museum is housed in Westville’s oldest building, dating back to the 1840s, with high stone walls and hand-hewn yellowwood floorboards, giving it a serene and tranquil atmosphere. The surrounding park also adds to the peaceful setting.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum to learn about the 1848 German settlers brought to Natal by Jonas Bergtheil, who was the Director of the Natal Cotton Company at the time. The museum is named after Jonas Bergtheil and showcases his contributions to the settlement of Westville, Cleremont, and New Germany.
The Bergtheil Museum boasts a rich collection of photographs, documents, and artefacts that tell the story of these settlers and their impact on the region. Despite undergoing alterations over the years, the museum has managed to preserve the original charm of the building, and its massive stone walls and hand-hewn yellowwood floors are still visible. In 1983, the building was declared a National Monument, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in South Africa’s history.
Visitors to Palmiet River Nature Reserve can enjoy facilities such as an interpretive center, a braai facility (booking required), and bird watching hides. Guided walks and self-guided walks are also available for booking through the reserve. So why not take a break from the city and explore this stunning nature reserve just a short drive away?
