Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Experience nature like never before at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve!

In the company of experienced guides, encounter the wonders of the unique fynbos landscape with its breathtaking biodiversity. This fascinating ecosystem is home to numerous species of insects, birds, mammals, and plants.

The reserve also offers unique opportunities to observe the marine Big Five: whales, great white sharks, dolphins, penguins, and seals.

The delicate beauty of a protea flower, the awe-inspiring size of an adult whale, the gentle sound of the sea in a secluded bay, and the mystique of ancient cave paintings - you can discover this and much more at the multi-award winning Grootbos Nature Reserve.

The private 2,500-hectare nature reserve is located in Gaansbai near Hermanus, the "whale capital" of South Africa. These giant mammals stay in the local bay from July to mid-December in order to give birth to their offspring.

Nature meets you at every turn in Grootbos Nature Reserve. Between the suites and the main building, winding paths lead through the beautifully landscaped garden with its colorful flora. Culinary delights include an extensive breakfast, served buffet style or in the privacy of your cottage. While the sun plunges into the sea, the 5-star chef prepares delicious specialties such as lobsters and freshly caught fish, as well as vegetables and salads that he grew himself for dinner.

After an exciting day of excursions, you can relax by the swimming pool and savor a cocktail at the bar. Grootbos Nature Reserve is a paradise for nature lovers, who get to explore the surroundings on guided excursions on foot, on horseback or via off-road vehicles, boats, or mountain bikes.

Meals: Full board. At the Forest Lodge you will eat at Red Indigo; at the Garden Lodge, you will have your meals at The Garden Restaurant. Dinner consists of 6 courses.

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve was one of the first ecotourism destinations in South Africa. In 2004, the Grootbos Foundation was established to promote and implement environmental and social development projects. Thus, the biodiversity of Grootbos and the surrounding area is to be preserved and a sustainable livelihood in harmony with nature is to be cultivated through the interaction of ecotourism, science, management, and education.

Grootbos includes two exclusive, 5-star lodges - Garden Lodge and Forest Lodge.

Garden Lodge - surrounded by tranquil gardens. Traditionally furnished, it conveys a homey, warm atmosphere. In total, this lodge offers eleven detached, spacious suites.

Forest Lodge - presents a sophisticated and contemporary design with clean lines, large windows, and warm colors. Ideal for couples on their honeymoon. Forest Lodge offers 16 detached suites with cozy fireplace nooks.

Grootbos Nature Reserve's 27 luxurious suites are set amongst magnificent Milkwood trees, each measuring approximately 80 m² and offer you the following facilities: lounge with fireplace, one or more bedrooms with separate dressing area, spacious en-suite bathroom with shower and bathtub, wooden terrace with magnificent views of the sea and the spectacular sunsets, small kitchen area with minibar, tea and coffee maker, hairdryer, telephone, and TV.

The Grootbos Game Reserve offers nature lovers a variety of activities. With expert botanists, you can take excursions through the 1,000-hectare nature reserve with its more than 600 different plant species.

Miles of secluded beaches tempt you to take long walks or horseback rides by the sea. From July to December, whale and shark watching are among the most fascinating experiences in the Grootbos nature paradise. Children are allowed to help feed the animals and receive riding lessons.

Included: Guided walks, horseback riding, scenic drives to the beach, beach walks, whale watching from land, township tours, visits to Grootbos Foundation projects.

For a fee: boat trips for whale, dolphin, and shark watching

Closest city: Cape Town (approx. 160 km)

Closest airport: Cape Town International Airport

Number of rooms: 27

Including

• 1 night including full board and activities in the Garden Lodge One-Bedroom Luxury Suite

Services & Notes

• Children of all ages are welcome. It’s only in the Forest Lodge that children under 12 years old are not allowed. A maximum of 2 children under 10 years old are allowed in the parents' room.
• Activities for children include pony riding (4 to 11 years old), horse rides (from 12 years old), excursions, kite when there is enough wind, activities in nature, and much more.