By Tiaan Booyens
With the summertime fast approaching, our little town’s pool-deprived denizens will eagerly be looking for local watering holes to cool down. Luckily, we’ve got some tried-and-tested destinations to survive the heat if you find yourself in and around Stellenbosch this festive season. This way, you can take a dip without inviting yourself to a friend’s house or signing up for a gym membership just to have access to a pool. Grab your sunblock and take a splash!
A day at the Coetzenburg Dam
Stellenbosch students have been going to this not-so-hidden gem for generations – and for good reason. With ample room to laze around in the sun, questionably safe rope swings for your entertainment, and a sprawling view of Coetzenburg Mountain, the dam has all you need for a day-long hangout. Granted it’s a bit of a hike to get there via the trail behind the Stellenbosch University Coetzenburg Centre. However, taking some refreshments and inviting a group of friends will guarantee a good time.
… or the “new” dam
The recently renewed Ertjieskloof Dam, better known as the ‘new dam with rocks’, is perfectly situated for easy access on the main hiking trail leading up to Coetzenburg Mountain. It’s also a bit closer to town if you prefer to go for a quick dive. The new dam has quickly become a favourite among the locals and boasts considerably clearer water if you don’t mind stepping over the rocks to get there (it’s almost like walking over Legos sometimes). Go check out Stellenbosch’s most Instagramable dam for yourself this summer.
Make the rounds up Eersterivier
The town has many nooks and crannies for those who fancy a cheeky little stroll under the trees. One of our favourites is the Koloniesland trail that meanders all the way up the Eersterivier. You can reach this trail from practically anywhere along the stream and follow it all the way up to the famous suspension bridge over an inviting pool of water from the mountains. It might not be the best place to show off your butterfly stroke, but it’s great for an idyllic promenade and a splash.
Spelunking at Dappat se Gat
Let’s face the music: Stellenbosch does not have a beach, and it usually is a mission to recruit enough carpoolers to orchestrate a proper coastal outing. But who doesn’t love setting off to grab ice cream along the Strand for sunset? If you’ve decided to make the drive to the beach, why not travel an extra fifteen minutes for a screensaver-quality view at Dappat se Gat (Caves) on the Clarens Drive past Gordon’s Bay? The waves are rad enough for surfing, the sandy beach is perfect for tanning, and there’s a cool cave to explore during low tide. It doesn’t get any better than this.
Bikini Beach, books and baubles
Bikini Beach in Gordon’s Bay has been the best beach outing I’ve ever had with friends. Located only half an hour out of town, this bay offers lekker waves and even more lekker vibes. After cooling down in the saltwater, you can grab a bite to eat just off the beach. Afterwards, I highly recommend a trip to the local ice cream shop, Aladdin’s Cave Emporium of trinkets and treasures, and the famed Bikini Beach Books which house a trove of second-hand books and bits. You’ll return to the city of oaks refreshed and rejuvenated.
Be sure to let us know some of your favourite spots to cool down during the hot summer days!
