The Cape Peninsula once consisted of two islands separated by the Fish Hoek (Silvermine) Valley, which was then merely a passage for the sea. During the ice age, the water receded and over the years this was replaced by shifting sand dunes blown in by the strong southeasterly winds. The surrounding community used plants to stabilize the dunes, but this stifled the indigenous flora and efforts are still being made today to clear the alien vegetation. The dunes in Fish Hoek may well be buried by the homes and gardens that have developed over time, but they remain a prominent feature of the landscape surrounding the Skildersgat Ridge.
Fish Hoek residents have the opportunity to explore the Skildersgat Ridge and an hour’s walk will take you to its summit, with panoramic views of False Bay in the east and the Atlantic Ocean in the west. The historic dirt road leading to the 17th century silver mines and the powder house (one of the oldest buildings in South Africa) can also be seen from here. The Silvermine River runs along the Clovelly side of the Fish Hoek Valley and happens to be one of the richest amphibian habitats in the country, with many species considered endangered.
The rate of expansion in Fish Hoek and the surrounding flood plain area made it necessary for recent landscaping work in order to control the floodwaters on the river estuary. This included the planting of indigenous fynbos and the creation of large pools, which has also improved the amphibian habitat and attracted a variety of bird life. Fish Hoek is the first town south of Kalk Bay, about 25 minutes outside of Cape Town and on the way to the picturesque historical village of Simon’s Town. Those who take Ou Kaapse Weg to get here will be spoilt with panoramic views of the stunning Cape Peninsula.
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