The small Western Cape village of Sir Lowry's Pass is situated just inland from Gordon's Bay at the foot of the Hottentots-Holland Mountains. The village is named after the extremely picturesque pass itself, which is on the N2 national route just outside the village. As you cross the mountains from East to West through Sir Lowry's Pass you are suddenly presented with a spectacular view of the whole of the Cape Town area with the mountains and the sea.
There are two excellent hiking trails that start at the summit of Sir Lowry's Pass and take the visitor into the Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve. Visitors will walk through one of the world's richest floral kingdoms with over 1500 species of indigenous plants to be seen along the trail. Three streams pass out of the mountains to pass through the village. This is the perfect stopover for visitors to the Cape region.
Sir Lowry's Pass, located in the Western Cape, offers stunning landscapes and a variety of activities for visitors.
Here are five must-see attractions in and around Sir Lowry's Pass:
1. Sir Lowry's Pass Viewpoint: This viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of False Bay, the Helderberg Basin, and the surrounding mountains. It's a perfect spot for photography and to appreciate the natural beauty of the Western Cape.
2. Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve: This expansive reserve features diverse flora and fauna, scenic hiking trails, and opportunities for bird watching. The reserve also offers more adventurous activities like kloofing (canyoning) and zip-lining through the rugged landscapes.
3. Steenbras Dam: Located near the pass, this dam is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The Steenbras River Gorge offers stunning natural scenery and challenging hiking trails, as well as opportunities for swimming in natural rock pools.
4. Waterkloof Wine Estate: A nearby winery renowned for its award-winning wines and biodynamic farming practices. The estate features a modern, architecturally stunning tasting room with panoramic views of the vineyards and False Bay. It's an excellent place for wine tasting and enjoying fine dining.
5. Vergelegen Wine Estate: A historic wine estate close to Sir Lowry's Pass, Vergelegen offers beautiful gardens, historic homesteads, and a variety of wine tasting experiences. The estate is known for its rich history and beautifully landscaped grounds, making it a great spot for a leisurely visit.
These attractions provide a mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural experiences, making Sir Lowry's Pass and its surroundings a worthwhile destination for travelers exploring the Western Cape.