Paarl is particularly known for its mountain or "Paarl Rock".

The huge granite rock is formed by three rounded outcrops that make up Paarl Mountain and is the second largest granite outcrop in the world and forms part of the Nature Reserve.

Few towns have been blessed as Paarl has with an area of unspoiled natural beauty at its doorstep.

The picturesque landscape of fynbos vegetation is dominated by massive rounded granite rocks set among ancient wild olives, rock candle woods and wagon trees.

The water in the storage dams contributes to the tranquillity. There are several viewpoints which offer panoramic views toward Table Mountain and the sea in the west and the Boland Mountains in the east.

A network of paths make it an ideal area in which to walk, within a few minutes of the bustle of everyday urban life.

Local schools have laid out the Klipkers Nature Trail for which a guidebook is available. The circular route starts at the Language Monument and takes roughly 2 hours.

Conservation of the indigenous plant and animal life involves among other things, eradicating exotic plants and implementing a program of controlled burning.

The Jan Phillips Mountain Road is kept in good repair, although not tarred, as well as the road leading to the Bretagne Rocks with its spectacular viewpoints.

On the plateau, roads are not intensively maintained, mainly to discourage motor traffic and to retain it as an unspoiled walking area.