The Grootbos trails will take you through the Milkwood forest all the way up to the fynbos rich mountains.
Walking and Hiking
You can opt to walk or hike on your own along the trails that stretch out throughout the reserve or go with a guide, who will provide some added in-depth information regarding the local ecosystems, plants and animals.
Whale Watching
Every year, Southern Right Whales come to the shores around Grootbos to mate and raise their young. The best time to see the whales is from June to December. You can select some land based watching, or head out on a cruise that departs from Gansbaai nearby.Botanical 4x4 Tour
At this eco-lodge close to Hermanus you can choose to experience a 4x4 botanical safari on an open-top Land Rover. Your experienced guide will teach you about some of the 785 recorded plant species within the area and how they were once used for medicine. Keep your eye out for some of the smaller game that inhabit this area as you go.Beach Excursions
The beaches are just a short drive away, where you can soak up the sun and maybe take a dip in the ocean, if you are brave enough to endure the Atlantic. These beaches are unpopulated and unspoilt, and you can request for one of the guides at Grootbos to show you some of the best spots. They will happily transport you there and back, and also provide you with a delicious picnic to enjoy on the beach.Birding
With 118 different bird species, Grootbos Nature Reserve offers a unique birding experience. Here, you can catch a glimpse of Sunbirds, Cape Sugarbirds and Black Harriers. You can try a birding tour, walk a short trail or simply spot birds from your suite.Private Spa
After a day of activities at this eco-lodge, you can pamper yourself at the luxurious treatment rooms, or from the privacy of your own suite. Choose from shiatsu to facials, manicures and massages.Horse Riding
Horse riding is an optional activity at Grootbos. Whether you are an expert rider or a complete beginner, taking a trot through the fynbos down to the beach is an awesome way to see the area. The 18 horses in the stable are well exercised and expertly trained.Bush Cuisine
Tantalise your taste buds with delicious fresh produce expertly prepared to showcase the bounty of the area. Each forkful is a medley of flavours, texture and aromas matching the wilderness surrounding you. This is fine dining, where each plate of food is a masterpiece of culinary art.
Meals can be served al fresco, as a picnic on the beach as you watch the whales leaping out of the water. In the middle of the reserve amongst the fynbos, in the outdoor boma under the glittering stars or as a romantic cellar dinner for two. Wherever you choose to dine, rest assured the food will be bursting with flavour and be freshly prepared from the best organic produce locally sourced.
What started out as a hobbity self-catering resort, built to help pay for the restoration of the natural vegetation on a farm near Gansbaai,...