Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

It was in 1991 that the Lutzeyer family first set eyes on a small farm on the fynbos slopes overlooking Walker Bay – and they couldn’t believe the beauty they saw. In 1994 Michael sold his business interests in Cape Town and decided to develop a bed and breakfast on the site for local visitors, not knowing that soon he would be attracting visitors from across the globe.

Since then, through a combination of hard work, enthusiasm, vision and strong family cooperation, the Lutzeyers have turned the reserve into a world leader in progressive luxury tourism, transforming the lives of community members and preserving 2500 hectares of botanical and wildlife treasures.

We go beyond simply conserving this pristine wilderness we call home. We’re constantly researching, innovating and pioneering new ways of doing things, and winning many eco-tourism awards along the way.

Our reserve offers you the chance to immerse yourself in the unique fynbos kingdom and ancient forest of Grootbos, featuring 800 plant species, 118 bird species, 29 mammals and 21 amphibians – some of which are under threat of extinction.

Our carefully curated experiences offer you the chance to grow, learn and discover. Whether it’s spotting whales and their calves in the ocean, learning how bees pollinate flowers or meeting passionate people changing the world, you’ll have your eyes opened – as well as your heart.

The freshest air, the cleanest water and the clearest views: a stay at Grootbos is a glimpse into a truly organic life. Much of the food we serve is grown right here on our reserve and you can taste this in every mouthful.

Soak up the sun, enjoy the fragrant smell of fynbos in the air and let our beautiful surroundings do its magic. There is an abundance of pleasure here to soothe your body and mind. Grootbos is a world leader in sustainable tourism and has been awarded some of the highest international accolades possible, making us one of only a handful of lodges to achieve this.

64 interns journeyed from across the world in the past year to work with the Foundation and change lives in the process. Every year, three of our Green Future students get the opportunity of a lifetime as they head to work at the renowned tourist attraction, the Eden Project, in Cornwall, UK.

Over 7000 community members benefitted last year from initiatives put in place by the Grootbos Foundation. Take a sip of mountain spring water. Relax in a bath by candlelight. Simply by staying at Grootbos, you’re helping uplift local people and their families by supporting small businesses.

ACCOMMODATION
Meander through an ancient Milkwood forest, soak up the beauty of the fynbos or admire dramatic mountain and sea views as you wind your way towards your private suite. All of our accommodation at Grootbos has been designed to complement our pristine natural setting, while never compromising on style or luxury.

GARDEN LODGE
With its heavy wooden beams and homely feel, the Garden Lodge reception area, pool and restaurant is a relaxing setting for those who enjoy a traditional aesthetic. Your breath will be taken by the magnificent view of Walker Bay at its front door.

FOREST LODGE
The contemporary design and décor of Forest Lodge could place it in any of the top cities in the world. But nowhere else would you be able to enjoy one of the world’s most biodiverse landscapes, the changing colours in the southern sky and the occasional little buck that comes feeding nearby.

PRIVATE VILLAS
Our two private villas are the last word in secluded luxury, offering unforgettable experiences to our discerning guests. With intuitive service provided by your own private chef, butler and nature guides, your every need will be met in a home-away-from-home environment of unsurpassed quality.

LUXURY SUITE
Private, peaceful and luxurious, our Garden Lodge suites are ideal for enjoying time with loved ones, soaking up the silence or simply connecting with nature. Curl up in the sun-filled lounge with a book, enjoy a cup of tea on your own wooden deck or simply appreciate the gorgeous views from every room in your exquisitely furnished suite.

Amble through our abundant indigenous gardens until you reach your spacious Luxury Suite. Feel like you’ve reached your own holiday home in the fynbos as you enjoy your indulgent en-suite bathroom, your own stylish lounge, a minibar, warming fireplace and DVD player for in-room entertainment.

FOOD & WINE
Every mouthful. Every drop. Every glance at every view. Dining at Grootbos is an experience in its own right, with its unique combination of fresh organic produce, a world-class natural setting and our hugely experienced culinary team.

FINE DINING
Maybe it was the vivid yellow of an egg yolk. Or the way the fresh mushrooms in the ravioli melted in your mouth. Or, perhaps it was the unique taste of Grootbos honey in your homemade ice cream. Whatever stands out to you: you’ll leave us with more than delighted tastebuds – you’ll leave us with rich culinary memories.

LOCAL FOOD
We’re proud to support other local producers who are just around the corner from us, such as Kaliba Dairy with their fresh butter, cheese, yoghurt, as well as Kleinriver Cheese Farm and Stone House Cheese Farm, who produce a variety of soft white & semi-hard cheeses. Try our cheese plate with home made compote and chutneys to taste this mouth-watering produce.

DINING EXPERIENCE
Every plate of food served up at our tables is a perfect, colourful piece of art. We use only the very freshest ingredients, sourced as close to Grootbos as possible, with many coming from our own organic farm on the reserve.

ORGANIC FOOD
We believe that nothing tastes better than organic, freshly picked vegetables and herbs. Which is why we have our own farm from which we harvest and get these ingredients to our kitchen and onto your plate as fresh as possible. At the same time, we are supporting our local community by training and employing them through our Growing the Futures Project.

This means that as you’re swooning over that home made linguini or Thai spiced soup, you’re also contributing to our food production and social upliftment projects. And the best part? All meals are included in your rate.

CULINARY CREATIVES
Our culinary team meets regularly to brainstorm and experiment, discussing which ingredients are the best, right now. Whether it’s visiting the harbour to pick up the catch of the day, or heading to our farm to check on the micro herbs, you can be guaranteed that Executive Chef Benjamin Conradie and his knowledgeable team have got your tastebuds covered.

Nibble on a just-baked croissant from one of our pastry chefs. Sample the freshness of an octopus salad, and you’ll quickly realise that you’re tasting food from a culinary team who’ve been extensively trained, many with international experience in the world’s most luxurious hotels

RESTAURANT
We believe that food is about more than feeding your body. It’s about connecting with others. Taking time to savour each mouthful. And tasting the freshness and wildness of this unique place. Enjoy these culinary experiences at one of our two distinctive lodge restaurants, each with their own character and atmosphere.

Garden Lodge was designed to let the magic of nature flood in through all of its doors and windows. Enjoy its warm cosy interior and spectacular ocean and fynbos views, as you savour memorable meals with loved ones.

Our Forest Lodge restaurant with its striking contemporary design is a masterpiece in itself. Head out on to the wide deck and enjoy breakfast in the open air, or sit inside and marvel at the endless views as you enjoy a dining experience second to none.

DESTINATION DINING
We love getting out into nature which is why our culinary experiences are not restricted to our fine dining restaurants. Enjoy an al fresco picnic with your toes in the beach sand, sip on cocktails as you see the sun set or enjoy a uniquely South African meal in our boma as you watch the fire embers burning low.

WINE EXPERIENCE
At Grootbos we know a lot about wine. But we’re not pretentious about it. We believe that everyone will enjoy discovering and experiencing the award winning wines of this region, whether they’re sampling a food and wine pairing, hearing from one of our sommeliers on what makes this vintage particularly special or going on a guided tour to the wine farm itself.

Choose from a vast selection of bottles in our cellar and enjoy the most perfect expression of our landscape and its people.

WINE COLLECTION
We aim to support the local economy in everything we do and luckily we happen to be situated in an area rich in wine production, which is also the Pinot Noir capital of South Africa.

Our primary sourcing area is the Overberg, which extends from the Elgin Valley across Bot River, Hermanus, Stanford and Elim, ending at Malgas near Swellendam. We also stock wines from further afield and a few sparkling wines and champagnes from France, but otherwise our collection is proudly local.

Headed by sommelier, Eben Bezuidenhoud, our team have a nose for the unusual, a desire for finding the very best and knowledge born out of years of experience. From studying viticulture to roaming the worlds most renowned wine regions, they have what it takes to share this love of wine, as well as the stories behind it, with wine lovers like you.

WINE & FOOD PAIRING
Wine and food pairings are hugely popular with guests who want to immerse themselves in the tastes of this unique area. We offer individually crafted once-off 5-course food & wine pairing menus, keeping the focus on the surrounding wine regions of the Overberg.

WINE TOURS
Join us on a guided tour around the area’s best wine farms, to see the origin of the wines you’re drinking and learn more about them. With the area’s incredible diversity of soil types and its refreshing sea breeze, you’ll soon see what sets the wines of the Overberg apart. Although these areas are lesser known than nearby wine routes, this makes the experience that much warmer and more sincere.

BOTANICAL 4×4 TOUR
Take a 4×4 botanical safari on an open-top Land Rover and soak up the serenity in shaded glades, feel the wind in your hair as you drive past fields of flowers and get perspective looking down from mountain peaks.

TINY, EXQUISITE WORLDS
Keep still, listen intently and you’ll be amazed at the things you learn on a botanical safari. With the richest temperate flora in the world and six completely new species never discovered by science before, 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 our 2500 hectares of pristine wilderness will bring the fascinating story of fynbos and forest to life as you touch, smell and see the natural miracles that surround you. Learn how a sunbird’s beak fits perfectly into a flower, why the honey our bees produce is completely unique and how important ravaging fires are for bringing forth new life.

SHARK CAGE DIVING
This thrilling encounter with one of nature’s most fearsome predators will stay with you for years to come. Venture into our underwater world with a tour company that prides itself on conducting responsible experiences – protecting both these creatures and the environment.

TICK THIS OFF YOUR BUCKET LIST
Gansbaai in the Western Cape of South Africa offers the best shark cage diving in the world: attracting these awesome predators as they hunt for birds, penguins and seals. Look these hunters right in the eye and feel your adrenalin surge as you make memories you’ll keep for a lifetime.

No diving experience is needed and you’ll never be more than a metre below the surface, completely protected in a metal cage. We work in partnership with Marine Dynamics, conducting the tour on our luxury boat along with the help of a dedicated marine biologist. You can also view the sharks from an elevated viewing deck instead of a cage.

WHALE WATCHING
It’s no secret that whale lovers from around the world flock to Walker Bay every year to observe these peaceful giants of the deep. The close proximity you get to these majestic creatures and the pristine natural environment you view them in, is what elevates this experience above the ordinary and makes it the best in the world.

Grootbos is ideally positioned to offer you close encounters with the magnificent Southern Right Whales. They migrate every year from the icy Antarctic to our warm, sheltered bays to mate, calve and raise their young and seeing them in their natural habitat is a sight that will leave you spellbound.

Board the luxury whale watching boat “Dreamcatcher” of Dyer Island Cruises in Gansbaai and enjoy a trip led by a marine biologist. You may also spot dolphins, penguins, seals and Great White Sharks.

AIRBORNE
Board a plane for the most spectacular bird’s eye views of whales below you and contemplate just how gigantic these mammals truly are. Our aircraft is ideal for snapping that perfect shot as you glimpse large mating groups, as well as mothers with their newborn calves.

LAND BASED
Take a walk on the cliffs and pathways of De Kelders as our knowledgeable guides take you to all the best viewing spots. See the waves frothing and listen to the slap of the whale’s gigantic tails, plus their breaching and spy-hopping, as they come within metres of the shoreline.

LADY STANFORD RIVER CRUISE
Soak up the peaceful, countryside days, while quietly cruising down the Klein River from Stanford to the Hermanus Estuary. Spot a flamboyant flock of Flamingos or Blue Swallows riding the airwaves next to the boat.

A UNIQUE RIVER BIRDING SPOT
Set out on the Lady Stanford, an exclusive luxury boat cruise down the Klein River from Stanford Village towards the Hermanus Estuary and back. Indulge in the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountain ranges, while our experienced guides point out a wide variety of birdlife, especially the feathered variety!

The Lady Stanford is an experience for any nature lover who wants to be completely immersed in a pristine environment. It can comfortably accommodate up to 26 passengers and is fully equipped with relevant birding books and checklists, binoculars, blankets and even an eco-friendly toilet.

BIRD WATCHING
Bird-lovers will relish the chance to view more than 120 species of birds. The Klein River Lagoon is home to an array of birds, including the Blue Crane (National Bird), Flamingo, African Fish Eagle, Red Knobbed Coot, Yellow Billed Duck and a variety of Cormorants and Geese. s.

SUNDOWNERS 
Enjoy the natural beauty of the Overberg as the sun sets behind the breathtaking mountain ranges. Treat your senses to a luxurious and magical experience on the Klein River with glass of bubbly. Accompanied by an expert guide to share the secrets of golden hour and the flourishing birdlife.

EXCLUSIVE CHARTER
Create everlasting memories on a sublime cruise fit for the whole crew. Lady Stanford comfortably seats 26 guests which makes it perfect for special occasions, social events and family gatherings.

WALKS & HIKES
The air is fresher here. The views are clearer. Immerse yourself in the essence of Grootbos by walking or hiking along one of our many trails and return to your suite with a clearer mind and more restful soul.

INDULGE THE BEAUTY & SERENITY
Enjoy an entrancing stroll through our Milkwood forest or a more revitalising hike up our fynbos-clad mountains, as you begin to understand what makes Grootbos quite so special. From a sunbird sipping from a flower to an ocean vista that leaves you breathless, surprises await you around every corner.

Trails are all well marked and you can choose between self-guided walks or guided walks, to learn more about these fascinating and secretive eco-systems. Gaze into the petals of a King Protea, breathe in the blackcurrant scent of buchu or simply listen to the exquisite silence that surrounds you.

MARINE SAFARI
Visit one of the only places in the world that plays home to such an extensive range of marine wildlife, and witness these fearsome, graceful and comical creatures in their own aquatic wonderland.

Seeing the Marine Big 5 in their natural habitat is a sight few have had the privilege to witness. Enjoy close encounters with whales, sharks, dolphins, seals and penguins in all their glory as they feed, frolic and play.

Join us on a purpose-built eco-friendly tour vessel as we partner with Dyer Island Cruises, and enjoy a trip led by experienced marine biologists and guides. Witness thousands of Cape Fur Seals basking in the sun, try and spot some fearsome Great White Sharks or delight as bottlenose dolphins surf right by the boat.

FAT BIKING
Explore the Overberg landscapes along trails through the Cape fynbos and into dune moonscapes through to the pristine Walker Bay coastline. This Fat bike adventure is a great experience, strap on your helmet and head out. The experience starts on guided trails through the fynbos. The landscape transitions into the dramatic dune landscapes and finally to the white sands of the Walker Bay coast.

Birds, seals, dolphins and whales (in season) are frequent sightings in this natural wonderland. The extra thick 4.7 inch tyres ensure that you won’t get stuck and that the dunes are easily navigated. Fat Biking is something for every level of proficiency or experience and is appropriate for all ages. It makes for a fun group activity, team building or family outing.

HIVE TO HOME
Explore the secret life inside the hive and see what the buzz is all about. Learn how black and yellow formations set out to collect nectar to create a unique, fynbos honey.

THE BIG BUZZ
Suit up and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Visit active beehives under the guidance of our experienced beekeeper and learn the important role bees play in our environment and how delicate their ecosystem is.

Look inside a beehive and bee amazed by the fractals in nature – the matrix of hexagonal cells. An insect society made up of individuals that come together to function as one. Return to the farm and see how natural honey is spun and the many uses it has to offer. Conclude the Hive to Home experience with a delicious honey-inspired breakfast under the ancient Milkwood trees.

BEAUTY TREATMENTS
Our Beauty Treatments are set amidst the serenity of a Milkwood forest or near lush landscaped gardens, providing sanctuaries where tension is dispelled and stress melts away. Healing hands and natural, locally-sourced products all add to the tranquil experience, ensuring you leave us calmer, stronger and more centred.

REVITALISING & REJUVENATING
After a day of activities, enjoy treatments in our luxurious treatment rooms, the privacy of your own suite, or even in the forest with the trees and birds as company. We have two fully-equipped Bloom beauty centres: one of which is situated conveniently close to Garden Lodge.

The other is set deep in the Milkwood Forest, a short walk from Forest Lodge where you’ll be surrounded by the sound of trees moving in the wind and may even spot a shy bushbuck coming to visit.

BIRD WATCHING
You can tell by the chorus of the birdsong that greets you on arrival at Grootbos, that bird watching here will be out of the ordinary. With 26 species that are endemic to the region, you’re sure to record more than a few rare sightings.

A UNIQUE COASTAL BIRDING HOTSPOT
With 118 different bird species, Grootbos is uniquely positioned to offer both avid birders and curious novices a rich and varied birding experience. Glimpse the vivid orange of a Sunbird’s breast, see a Cape Sugarbird sipping on nectar or spot a rare Black Harrier.

Cool Afromontane forests, the rocky coastline and serene estuaries provide a magnificent backdrop to our birding outings. Our experienced guides will share fascinating facts while helping you spot rare and endemic birds feeding and breeding in these different ecosystems.

PROGRESSIVE TOURISM TOUR
From the very beginning, we’ve always been about much more than luxury travel. Which is why we designed the entire Grootbos experience around a new movement we call Progressive Tourism: and we want the world to share in this vision too.

CHANGING THE WORLD’S APPROACH TO TOURISM
What is progressive tourism? It’s a term we coined to explain a new way of living that is at the heart of the entire Grootbos experience. It’s about every action we take benefitting someone else or having a positive impact on the environment.

From the freshly grown tomatoes you eat at lunch, to the recycled candles in your room, to the earrings you buy at the gift shop – we’re constantly seeking out new ways to create sustainable livelihoods for the people who call this unique area

SCENIC FLIGHTS
A scenic flight around this area is an experience of a lifetime. Spot up to 60 whales frolicking in the waves beneath you, see glorious vineyards from up high, glimpse shipwrecks on rugged shorelines and mountain peaks amongst the clouds.

A NEW POINT OF VIEW
Viewing marine life from above means you won’t disturb the wonderful creatures below you, giving you a privileged glimpse into their natural world. From the inviting cabin of a small plane, get a bird’s-eye view of Grootbos and its breathtaking surrounds.

Purple mountains cradle fynbos far below, while whales swim protectively alongside their newborn calves. In season, you may witness whole pods of whales mating and playing, a sight you won’t glimpse in the same way from land. Why not fly over iconic Table Mountain to Cape Point? Or to the southernmost tip of Africa? An aerial tour can easily incorporate all of these and more.

SOUTHERN TIP OF AFRICA TOUR 
Visit the southernmost tip of our continent for a day filled with vivid storytelling, extensive natural beauty and a host of unusual experiences.

AN ICONIC DAY TRIP
This specially crafted day trip will show you the undiscovered corners of this unique area through a combination of experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Snap unforgettable pictures of the tip of Africa, watch the locals feeding sting-rays in the Struisbaai harbour and uncover the fascinating history of small villages.

Spot birds, antelope and ostriches as we drive on the border of the Agulhas National Park, where the Blue Crane bird is abundant. Then enjoy a leisurely lunch in the harbour. Take a brisk walk to the lighthouse, and then learn how many ships came to be wrecked along this ‘Cape of Storms’.

COASTAL SAFARI
Time stops on our beaches. Whether you’re sinking your feet into untouched white sand on a solitary walk, or discovering the origins of early man on our cave tour – you’ll feel closer to the earth as you get to know this exquisite coastline.

BEACHES
Pick up a shell while on a guided beach tour. Have the waves to yourself as you take a dip at the water’s edge. Or simply lie back and soak up the sun. A visit to our beaches offers you relaxation, inspiration or solitude, depending on how you choose to spend your time.

Based off our reserve and just a short drive away, the beaches nearby are unpopulated and unspoilt. Our guides know all the best spots and will transport you there and back, and we can also provide you with a delicious picnic to enjoy outdoors.

LEARN & EXPLORE
Our guided cave tour along the dramatic limestone cliffs of De Kelders will introduce you to a Stone Age World, when Khoi bushman called these caves home. See how they lived as you visit Klipgat Cave, a World Heritage Site, and snap some breathtakingly beautiful photographs.

This is one of only three places in South Africa where such ancient remains have been found. Learn more about it through engaging commentary from our guides, and get transported back into a forgotten world.

QUAD BIKING
Go adventuring through shaded forests, up craggy mountains and down into scenic valleys, as you see the landscape in a fun-filled and safe way. Quad biking is perfect for those with a sense of adventure and a thirst for fun. Twist the throttle, drink in the fresh air and enjoy time with others as you explore this untouched paradise.

Our experienced guide will take you along a designated trail, running through pristine fynbos and indigenous forests towards dramatic lookout points. The easy pace and helpful guidance provided ensure that this is a fun, safe and immersive way to experience the unique landscape.

MOUNTAIN BIKING TOURS
To explore Grootbos on a mountain bike is an exhilarating experience unlike any other. Experience the breathtaking views of fynbos-clad hills, vineyards with blue dams and the mesmerizing coastline of Walker Bay and get ready for the most scenic ride of your life.

For the novice rider, bikes are available at the lodge to use. Experienced riders are welcome to bring along their mountain biking gear. For a leisurely pace, cruise along the double-track routes or explore the single-track routes for a more adventurous ride.

After a fun-filled day on the reserve, arrive at the lodge and be pampered by the warm hospitality while celebrating your conquest of the day. Relax and unwind in your luxury suite with panoramic views of Walker Bay.

Rooms: 27

Price: from 982 EUR per night

Source: www.grootbos.com