Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Garden Lodge

The charming and sustainable Garden Lodge is inspired by its natural surroundings and blends harmoniously with the fynbos, featuring native trees and plants. Through the reuse of natural materials, playing with natural daylight, and the expansive layout of the lodge, you experience nature at its best. The 11 spacious and standalone suites offer plenty of privacy. They include a cozy fireplace, a separate living room with seating area, and a large terrace with views over the enchanting Cape West. In addition to one-bedroom suites, there are also two-bedroom suites, ideal for larger groups. Each bedroom is equipped with an extensive ensuite bathroom, often with a bathtub and/or walk-in shower.

Forest Lodge

The Forest Lodge is also fully aligned with the stunning surroundings of the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. Located in the Milkwood forest, the 16 standalone suites, scattered throughout the gardens, are connected by winding paths. Each suite features a romantic and cozy living room with an open fireplace. The large glass sliding doors open onto the spacious terrace and let in plenty of natural light. Enjoy the idyllic sunset from the luxurious king-size bed. The ensuite bathroom is equipped with a bathtub and a rain shower. Additionally, there is a separate toilet and shower.

Private Villas

Looking for even more space and extra privacy? The Sunbird Villa with 4 bedrooms and the Fynbos Villa with 6 bedrooms both also have their own private pools.

The cozy restaurant in the Garden Lodge brings the outdoors inside with its large windows. Located on an outdoor terrace on a dune, you can enjoy the stunning view over Walker Bay. In the Forest Lodge, you can dine romantically at the Forest Boma beneath the enchantingly lit trees of the Fynbos. Additionally, the Forest Lodge features its own restaurant, coffee bar, and lounge.

You are not necessarily bound to dine only in the restaurant. Venture out and enjoy the Cape nature while having a picnic on the beach or among the dunes.

The delicious dishes consist of creative combinations made from the best and most pure products from the area, complemented by exquisite Cape wines. The elegant wine cellar in the Garden Lodge also houses many award-winning wines. You can also enjoy a wonderful dinner here.

Each lodge has its own swimming pool with stunning views over the surroundings. Enjoy the heated pool at the Garden lodge amidst beautifully maintained gardens, or indulge in spectacular panoramic ocean views from the Forest lodge.

The wellness spa in the Garden Lodge is located amidst the tranquility of the Milkwood forest and the lushly landscaped gardens. Professional treatments and natural, locally produced products all contribute to your delightful spa experience. Immerse yourself in a world of relaxation and rejuvenation, where every detail is designed to enhance your well-being. The spa at the Forest Lodge further down the path also features a beauty salon.

At Grootbos in Hermanus, there are numerous activities to make your stay unforgettable:

•  Whale watching (one of the best places in the world)
•  Shark diving
•  Marine safari
• Hiking and cycling tours
•  Beach safari
•  Horseback riding
•  Bird watching

A highlight is the Lady Stanford River Cruise, where you can relax and enjoy the countryside as you gently cruise along the Klein River from Stanford to the Hermanus Estuary. Along the way, you may spot a flamboyant flock of flamingos or blue swallows slicing through the sky next to the boat.

During the nature excursions organized by Grootbos, expert guides will accompany you and explain the fascinating relationships between the plants, insects, birds, and mammals living in the reserve. A visit to the ancient forest with trees around 1000 years old is highly recommended. You can discover all this beauty during a trip in a 4x4 vehicle, on foot, or horseback. The stunning beaches with sea caves and saltwater pools are also definitely worth a visit.

For adventure seekers, there is an optional extra to come face-to-face with a great white shark and even go into the water in a cage. Additionally, you may spot dolphins, sea lions, African penguins, and whales (seasonal). Bird enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy in the area.

At the Garden Lodge, fun and exciting activities are organized daily, especially for children, which are also educational in nature. Your children can enjoy their own excursions to the beach, adventurous walks through the nature reserve, collecting shells, planting trees, and treasure hunts. Additionally, the little ones can have a great time in the playroom, designed to evoke the atmosphere of the forest.

The Garden Lodge offers suites with two separate bedrooms, ideal for families with children. Or stay in one of the two larger villas, perfect for big families who want to enjoy a relaxing stay together.

The lodge has received numerous awards for both its accommodation and its commitment to conservation and sustainability.

The 'Grootbos Foundation' was established over 20 years ago to develop social and environmental projects. The foundation aims to protect the native flora and fauna of the area, inform guests about the biological, historical, and cultural significance of the Western Cape, raise ecological awareness among the local community, and take a leading role in protecting the region's natural environment. The proceeds from ecotourism at Grootbos are invested in the foundation's projects.