On Sunday a couple of us set off to the Silvermine Nature Reserve for a swim in the reservoir and some much needed relaxation time…

Silvermine is a popular spot for Capetonians in the summer, with the nature reserve offering walks, mountain bike trails, rock climbing and swimming in the rivers and reservoir.

We were under no obligation to do any of the above, other than lounge in the tannin coloured water of the reservoir which dates back to 1898 when it was built to supply water to the growing Cape Metropolis.

Little boarded walkways around the reservoir made it easy to find a spot out of the wind, while lovely picnic areas have been laid out around the reservoir and in the surrounding trees and fynbos - complete with braai facilities (although extreme caution is advised during summer as fires are a hazard in this area).

Silvermine Nature Reserve forms part of the Table Mountain National Park and stretches the entire length of Ou Kaapse Weg from Tokai and Muizenberg, over the mountain to Fishoek and Sun Valley.

To get there you take Ou Kaapse Weg and at the very top of the mountain pass is the entrance to the park – there is a fee at the gate of R15 which is incredible value for money considering all the activities you can do and the spectacular scenery from the top of the mountain.

Silvermine Nature Reserve is also within a 15minute drive from The Constantia, The St James and The Long Beach, so be sure to spend a day exploring this beautiful little hidden gem.