De Mond Nature Reserve protects the unspoilt estuary where the Heuningnes River meets the sea, near Arniston and Bredasdorp on the Cape Agulhas coast. This quiet World Heritage Site is a birding and beach-walking gem, with a long swimming and fishing beach, dune fields, a suspension bridge over the river mouth and important breeding grounds for the endangered Damara tern.

The reserve is best explored on foot, with the Sterna day trail and the overnight Damara Trail leading through estuary, dune and coastal habitats rich in shore and water birds.

The self-catering Damara Trail cabin offers a simple, remote overnight base for hikers and small groups deep in this peaceful coastal reserve, far from the nearest town.