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	Rugged, steep krantzes silhouetted against the skyline, mountain slopes covered with a grass blanket, deep lushly vegetated ravines and a crystal-clear lake are facets of the beaty of this reserve, which covers 18 000 ha. Oribi, reedbuck, mountain reedbuck and gray rhebuck inhabit this mountain reserve. The bald ibis, the blue and the white bellied korhaan are conspicuous on the grassy slopes while buff streaked chat, ground woodpecker and sentinel and Cape rock thrushes can be seen on rocky outcrops. Bearded and Cape vultures as well as the black and martial eagles and secretarybird are found here. The yellow-wood, wild peach, koko tree, silky bark, black bark and bush guarri flourish in the sheltered ravines. Wild grape has twined into the tree tops where they form a dense leafy canopy that protects ferns and mosses below. The mountain slopes are decorated with wild myrthe, redwood, ouwood, bush guarri, highveld protea, silver sugarbush and the scarce tree fern.


	Location, Accommodation and Facilities The nature reserve is situated approximately 23 km from Harrismith on the Harrismith/Bergville road (R74). The fully equipped chalets all have a breathtaking view of the lake and the mountains beyond. There are 360 camping sites along the shores of the dam. The caravan park is equipped with modern ablution facilities and power points. Slipways and boathouses have been built for boating enthusiasts. A recreation hall with bar and kitchen may be rented. Recreation The prevailing winds at Sterkfontein Dam make it ideal for sailing and it has become a .


	mecca for water sports. The reserve is also a popular spot for camping, angling, game viewing, biking and hiking. A two-day hiking trail has been established. No one wanting to relax and savoir the great outdoor sensation and the beauty of the mountain, will be disappointed. Climate The weather is very variable, so visitors should always be prepared for unexpected cold spells. The summers are mild, the winters cold. The annual rainfall varies from 750 to 1 400 mm. For more information contact the Tourist Officer, Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve, P.O. Box 24, Harrismith 9880 or phone 05861-23520, Fax 05861-21772.