The Grootbos Private Nature Reserve enjoys a charmed location on the golden shores of Walker Bay, extending back through over 2,500 hectares of pristine fynbos and milkwood forest. Two exquisite lodges and a further two private villas are set in these enchanting surroundings, where native flora and fauna meet the ocean in a prime Garden Route setting.
The Garden Lodge with its beautiful, freeform swimming pool, offers panoramic ocean and fynbos views from every angle. Eleven freestanding suites are dotted throughout the gardens. Each is filled with light from its floor to ceiling windows and decorated in a contemporary style, with beautiful views from the private wooden deck.
Seeking out the Marine Big Five is just one of the draws of a stay at Grootbos, where boat trips can be arranged to observe Cape fur seals, Bottlenose dolphins, penguins, southern right whales and perhaps even a great white shark. On dry land, some of the reserve’s 800 individual plant species can be discovered on a botanical safari tour, or you wish to gain an alternative perspective on the wonders of the fynbos on a riding or bird watching perspective. Back at the lodge, soothe tired limbs with a restorative massage in the spa or simply unwind by the pool with a chilled glass locally-produced Sauvignon Blanc in hand.
The restaurant at Garden Lodge has been designed to let the magic of nature flood through its doors. Ingredients are mostly organic, and many originate from the reserve, including honey, meat, eggs, herbs, vegetables and even spring water. Every plate is designed as a colourful work of art and comes with a carefully curated list of wines from the Grootbos cellar. For an extra special experience, dine outside by the burning embers of the boma or enjoy a sunset picnic on the beach.
