UNESCO's first declared Biosphere Reserve in SA!
Biosphere Reserves are areas of terrestrial and coastal eco-systems which are internationally recognised within the framework of the United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation's (UNESCO's) Man and Biosphere Programme.
Collectively, they constitute a World Network. They are nominated by national governments and must meet a minimal set of criteria and adhere to a minimal set of conditions before being admitted into the World Network.
Each Biosphere Reserve remains under the sovereignty of the State where it is situated and submits to State legislation.
Goal 1: To raise general awareness of the KBR, build a broad based understanding of the Man and Biosphere program, and establish an identity for the managers of the biosphere reserve.
Goal 2: To support environmentally sustainable socio-economic and conservation initiatives that offer scope for wider replication. (ie economic development that is socially, culturally and ecologically sustainable.
Goal 3: To facilitate and co-ordinate biosphere level research and forward planning, and share results with partners.
Towns: Grabouw; Elgin; Botriver; Kleinmond; Betty's Bay; Pringle Bay; Rooi Els
Take the N2 out of Cape Town. To visit the highlands areas and the Green Mountain Wine Route, pass through Somerset west and climb Sir Lowrey's Pass to the forest and orchard areas. To explore the coastal route, after Somerset West look for the right turn to Gordon's Bay and the R44.
Clarence Drive (R44) is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the World!
For many years the coastal area of the KBR was only accessible on foot, donkey or by boat. The first road was built by Italian prisoners of war during the second World War. Named Clarence Drive in 1950, this scenic road was rebuilt in the 1990's to provide parking areas from which to enjoy the magnificent sea views across False Bay and spectacular views of whales during late winter.
