The beauty of the Helderberg Nature Reserve

I've never been into the Helderberg Nature Reserve before, and so today was an eye-opening experience, as we hiked through untouched fynbos - proteas, sugarbushes, pincushions, ericas - all above head height and coming into bloom in a full spectrum of colours from dark green to white to palest dusky pink and rich dark pink. Surrounded by soaring peaks and sheer cliffs, recently dusted with snow and still carrying its chill, we were serenaded by sugarbirds, prinias, robins and gorgeous orange-breasted sunbirds. It was a paradise. 
In the distance, False Bay lay quiet in windless conditions, green and blue patches as clouds drifted overhead and the occasional splash of white along the rocky shore below Clarens Drive, that most marvellous of scenic drives that winds along the eastern flank of the bay from Gordons Bay to Pringle Bay. Cape Point lay in the misty distance, with the familiar outline of the southern Peninsula mountains tracing the skyline back to Table Mountain.
Several trails crisscross the Reserve, allowing hiking for all levels of fitness with the same spectacular views, and allowing us an always appreciated break from the madding crowd. Although treacherously slippery in places, the paths are easy to negotiate in good hiking boots and with walking sticks to steady as you slide, and I would highly recommend this area for those seeking soul food.