Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is an oasis of luxury set amid unique native wilderness – a magnet for rare birds.
Overlooking Walker Bay, which up to 160 Southern Right whales call home between June and December, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is an oasis of luxury set amid unique native wilderness. Established by a family to protect the the last remaining vestiges of “fynbos”, delicate coastal flora endemic to South Africa’s Western Cape, this sanctuary is now a magnet for rare birds. Its cliffs also offer some of the best land-based whale-watching on Earth.
Guests at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve have two distinct wings to choose from. Crafted in stone, timber and thatch, beautiful family-friendly Garden Lodge boasts 11 spacious suites and nestles amid wildflowers. The one and two bedroom suites here are warm and inviting, with fireplaces and private furnished decks looking out over the horizon. Forest Lodge is much more contemporary, featuring 16 sophisticated modern suites that sleep two, some with private plunge pools – an ideal choice for honeymooners or couples. Both lodges boast their own dining, lounge and recreational areas.
It’s easy to fill your days here at Grootbos Private Reserve. Expert guides are on hand to accompany you on walks through the hills, 4X4 flower safaris, cave tours, horseback riding adventures and bird-watching. You can also head down to the coast to participate in shark cage diving or a boat cruise in search of the marine “Big 5” comprised of Southern Right whale, great white shark, Cape fur seal, dolphin and African penguin.
Accommodation Details
- Guided walks
- 4×4 flower safaris
- Horseback riding
- Whale-watching
- Shark cage diving
- A unique private nature reserve established to protect rare coastal flora
- Comprised of two distinct wings: one for families, the other for adults
- With a wealth of activities on offer from flower safaris to horseback riding
- Exceptional cuisine and outstanding facilities
- Discover South Africa’s marine “Big 5”
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is a scenic 2 hours’ drive from Cape Town, following Sir Lowry’s Pass through the mountains or the stunning coastal route that traces the Whale Coast.
Accommodation around the Cape Winelands and Garden Route.
Below are some of our preferred hotels and lodges in the Cape Winelands and Garden Route regions. Please contact us to tailor accommodation options to suit the style of your trip and your budget.
Babylonstoren
Less than 45 minutes’ drive from Cape Town lies Babylonstoren, one of the oldest and best preserved 17th century Cape Dutch farms.
Delaire Graff Lodges & Spa
At the edge of charming Stellenbosch in the Cape Winelands, Delaire Graff Lodges & Spa offers the ultimate in luxury accommodation and fine dining.
Franschhoek Country House and Villas
Just outside of Franschhoek village lies a lovely original homestead with many decorative accents that allude to the property’s rich history. Innovative regional cuisine awaits you at the
Grand Roche Hotel
A member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World consortium, the Grand Roche Hotel in Paarl is filled with character.
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Overlooking Walker Bay on South Africa's Western Cape, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is an oasis of luxury set amid unique native wilderness - a magnet for rare birds.
Lanzerac Hotel and Spa
The iconic Lanzerac Hotel and Spa is one of the region’s grandest examples of Cape Dutch architecture, constructed in 1692.
Le Quartier Francais
Set in the peaceful village of Franschhoek, Le Quartier Francais invites visitors to indulge in absolute luxury and sumptuous cuisine.
Leeu Estates
Leeu Estates is a 17-room country house and boutique winery in the Frankshoek Valley and is the flagship property of Leeu Collection
Leeu House
Elegant Leeu House is an enchanting combination of casual country living and world-class luxury set in the charming, historic village of Franschhoek.
South Africa Itineraries
The following tours are private, independent and can be easily customised to suit your personal travelling requirements. Please contact us to begin designing your personalised South Africa experience.
African Safari Extravaganza
This epic itinerary encompasses an epic five-country train journey aboard the Rovos Rail, a safari in Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti as well as a beach getaway on the Indian Ocean coast.
Best of South Africa
Experience the very best of South Africa from vibrant Johannesburg and spectacular Cape Town to seeking out the 'Big 5' on safari and discovering the beautiful Cape Peninsula.
Cape Town and Garden Route Discovery
Experience the sites of Cape Town, Cape Winelands, the Karoo semi-desert and the lush forests and lagoons of the famous Garden Route.
Cape, Kruger and a Castaway Island
This 13 day African getaway has it all: Cape Town, the winelands, Kruger National Park and even a castaway island off the coast of Mozambique.
Essential South Africa and Victoria Falls by Rail
Experience an unforgettable safari in the Sabi Sand Private Reserves, be awed by Victoria Falls then journey aboard Rovos Rail back to Johannesburg.
Kruger and The Cape
Discover some of South Africa's best known attractions on this journey that begins with a big game safari in the world-renowned Sabi Sand and concludes in beautiful Cape Town.
Magical Mashatu & Mala Mala
Combine two fantastic safari experiences on this exciting 8 day itinerary staying at Botswana's Mashatu, "Land of the Giants" and legendary Mala Mala in South Africa.
Malaria Free Safari
This malaria-free South Africa safari means that you don't need to worry about taking medication on your holiday. This is an ideal option for families with young children or travellers with health concerns.
Say ‘I Do’ in Africa
Tie the knot at a stylish resort in Mauritius, before a honeymoon in South Africa staying at two exclusive safari lodges adjoining Kruger National Park and exploring Cape Town.
South Africa and Victoria Falls
Discover Zimbabwe's magnificent Victoria Falls, go on a safari in search of the Big-5 in South Africa and visit scenic Cape Town.
South Africa and Victoria Falls Family Safari
Go gameviewing with the kids in two excellent malaria-free "Big 5" reserves in South Africa: Pilanesberg and Madikwe. Then, fly to Zambia for a tour of Victoria Falls.
South Africa Cape Explorer
Travel with the family from Cape Town to beautiful Grootbos Private Game Reserve. At malaria-free Kwandwe, experience an unforgettable "Big 5" safari.
South Africa in Luxury
Travel from cosmopolitan Durban to Cape Town in utmost luxury, taking in two beautiful and unusual private game reserves in between: Phinda and Grootbos.
Winelands, Garden Route and Safari Self Drive
Explore Cape Town, self-drive the famous Winelands and Garden Route regions and finish with a "Big 5" safari at Shamwari Game Reserve.
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