Whether you love to swim in the ocean, rivers, rock pools or open-air swimming pools, the CapeNature reserves have something for everyone, so bring your bathing costume along.

The awe-inspiring De Hoop Nature Reserve in the Overberg has a number of wonderful options. You can cool off in the waves, or head to De Hoop’s large, clear rock pools that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Also in the Overberg, a good place to enjoy a swim is in the Heuningnes River estuary in De Mond Nature Reserve.

The Garden Route is paradise for anybody who loves swimming or water sports, and the Goukamma Nature Reserve between Sedgefield and Knysna doesn’t disappoint. Explore the estuary and ocean here by swimming, sailing, fishing or canoeing.

The Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve encompasses 250 hectares of indigenous forest in the Langeberg region near Heidelberg. They are not on CapeNature property, but you can cool off in the swimming holes in the Duivenhoks river after an invigorating 3km to 5km hike from the main office. If you’re an overnight guest, jump into the new swimming pool close to the self-catering cottages (it’s not open to day visitors).

With four rivers having their source in the Jonkershoek Mountains, there are fabulous natural rock pools in the mountains and waterfalls to discover at the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve near Stellenbosch – a welcome respite from the heat during summer hikes on the reserve’s trails.

South Africa’s first registered biosphere reserve, the splendid Kogelberg Nature Reserve  encompasses the entire coastal area from Gordon’s Bay to the Bot River estuary. Swimming is permitted on the Palmiet River Walk at the demarcated swimming spots.

There are many swimming holes tucked away in the mountains of the Limietberg Nature Reservein the Du Toitskloof Mountains, including the Witte River and Wolwekloof pools. You need a permit to explore these pools and eating, drinking and diving are not allowed.