Enjoy rare fynbos and migrating whales at Grootbos reserve

For those who really want to embrace South Africa’s natural beauty, it doesn’t come much better than Grootbos. Not only do we have a precious botanical ecosystem on our doorstep but we are also on the edge of an incredible coastline, overlooking Walker Bay. Our latest addition is our carbon-negative Garden Lodge featuring 11 canopy brushing suites created with families in mind. Design elements include solar panels, reclaimed materials and eco-friendly water without compromising on style. The light floods through the floor-to-ceiling windows and there’s a heated swimming pool, dedicated kids’ playroom and of course those breath-taking views.

Located in 2,500 hectares of wilderness, close to Hermanus, Grootbos is home to 765 of the roughly 9,000 fynbos species found within the region. Our on-site Florilegium exhibition showcases the intricacies of this Cape Floral kingdom through botanical ilustrations depicting unique local flora, some of which you won’t find anywhere else on the planet. What makes this set of beautiful drawings really standout is the inclusion amongst the flora of the insects, pollinators and other creatures that help maintain this incredible ecosystem. You’ll never look at plants in the same away again.

To make the most of our pristine environment we offer beach picnics, safaris, hikes, scenic flights and marine-based exploration. Walks and 4×4 tours to our fynbos-clad mountains bring the story of South Africa’s native fynbos to life and our eco-boat excursion taking in the marine ‘big five’ is another popular tour. We can also take guests to see remnants from the bushman period (late and middle strong age). Bones, tools, beads and other artefacts were unearthed in the cliff caves of De Kelders – a World Heritage Site not far from here.

This part of the Cape coast is a breeding ground for southern right whales. We see Bryde’s whales year-round but in migration season southern rights come right into the Bay’s shallow waters, facilitating land-based whale watching, as well as tours by air and boat.

The Grootbos Foundation is an integral part of our ethos. From humble beginnings in 2003 we now support the local community in many ways, whether training the unemployed and equipping them with vital life skills, providing kindergarten care, or supporting education and sports facilities.

Grootbos, which means big forest in Afrikaans, is named after the milkwood forest on our property. Whether strolling through this fairytale forest or gazing into a king protea, Grootbos is all about immersion in nature.