Grootbos

Hermanus, South Africa

DESTINATIONS > AFRICA > SOUTH AFRICA > Grootbos

Stay at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Just two hours from the delights of Cape Town, with panoramic views and tucked between mountains, forest and sea, this breathtaking eco-reserve combines ultimate luxury with top-notch sustainability credentials. Set in 2,500 hectares of wilderness, on the iconic rolling fynbos slopes, this retreat offers sleek contemporary design and the opportunity to discover flora, wildlife and marine life alike.

Offering freestanding suites and private villas, accommodation is secluded and tranquil, with many opportunities to enjoy sweeping views of the bay. Private decks are the perfect spot to take an outdoor rainshower or soak up the African sunset with an award-winning South African wine in hand.

Explore the private reserve with an endless number of activities for all ages, such as horseriding through the fynbos or a gentle canter over the dunes and along the sandy stretch of Walker Bay coastline.

Spot the Southern Right whales as they come into the bay each year to mate and calf, or head out on a boat for more whale watching and the chance to see the marine Big Five. Discover unique flora on a botanical safari, join the birdwatching experts, explore pre-historic caves or just relax with a pampering spa treatment.

The philosophy of the team at Grootbos goes beyond just preserving the surrounding environment of pristine wilderness. They are committed to researching, innovating and pioneering, with community projects and protecting species under the threat of extinction. During your time here, you can learn more about their responsible projects and take the time to immerse yourself in the environment.

Why we love it

Their progressive ethos means a luxury tourism that works hard to protect and develop the ecosystem and support local communities
You can’t beat the panoramic views over the fynbos and down to the bay
It’s the perfect spot to connect with wildlife and learn more about the natural environment

Facilities

Swimming pool

Lounge

Experiences

Horse Riding

Go for a relaxed ride through the fynbos or ride one of the special horses that are specifically trained for the beach, and head off along the dunes.

Whale Watching

These peaceful giants of the deep come to Walker Bay to mate and calf in the sanctuary of the Bay. The Walker Bay rocky outcrops offer close viewing points from elevated positions.

Boat excursions

Besides seeing the amazing whales, this trip offers a complete experience of the Marine Big Five, which includes the whales, dolphins, African Penguins, Cape Fur Seals and surface viewing of the Great White Shark.

Botanical Safari

Your time at Grootbos will mean that you'll never look at plants and flowers in quite the same way again. The 800 recorded plant species in the 2,500 hectares of pristine wilderness will bring the fascinating story of fynbos and forest to life.

Sustainability Tour

Learn how Grootbos' various projects are changing lives and conserving this protected wilderness, as the entire experience has been designed around protecting the community and nature around.

Birdwatching

Knowledgeable guides are geared to give bird watchers of all levels a winged overview of these magnificent creatures that enliven the skies of the reserve.

Spa

For those who just want to relax, enjoy an array of spa treatments in the comfort of your own suite.

Walks and Hikes

Enjoy an entrancing stroll through the Milkwood forest or a more revitalising hike up fynbos-clad mountains, exploring the trails on your own or joining guides to discover more about the ecosystem.

Fat Biking

This is the ultimate ride from Grootbos Nature Reserve down the mountain to the top of the sand dunes, before scaling down the vertical dune face for the adrenaline seekers.

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Call +44 (0)203 137 1247

Call +1 (800) 635 8124

Missy & Harry

Absolutely amazing holiday. Garonga is heaven! We did everything possible and our guide was brilliant and hilarious. I can definitely recommend True Travel for their excellent advice and professionalism – they clearly are very knowledgeable about where they send their clients and made sure we had a worry-free holiday that perfectly suited us. We were particular grateful for the collection off our flight and help onto our transfer in Johannesburg, which included a very nifty queue jump due to their reputation!