Serene and stylish secret garden

A luxury eco-reserve with flower safaris, close to the Southern tip of Africa tucked between mountains, forest and sea.

Spectacularly sited in its own private 4,000 acre nature reserve, and surrounded by fynbos-clad hills, Grootbos Nature Reserve offers inspired accommodation that has rightly earned a place amongst Tatler Travel Guides 101 Best Hotels in the World. Imagine a secret garden overflowing with abundant life, birdsong echoing from every corner. And then imagine being given the key to that garden…such is a stay at Garden Lodge

The Grootbos Garden Lodge accommodation is no less exclusive than its location. Eleven stylish stone and thatch cottages hidden amongst the gardens have separate sitting rooms, spacious bedrooms, and en-suite bathrooms. The two-bedroom cottages are ideal for families and all have wood burning stoves for cooler evenings and large panoramic windows looking out to the sea and mountains. Large wooden decks are standard features in all suites. The gourmet restaurant satisfies fresh-air induced appetites with delectable fresh local food whilst the swimming pool is perfect for cooling off and admiring the view.

A dedicated and enthusiastic team of conservationists is on hand to help guests make the most of Grootbos unique experiences, including a myriad of daily activities such as whale watching from land or sea, horse riding, mountain biking, guided walks and nature drives, bird watching, white shark cage-diving, beach expeditions and fishing. The months of May to July signals a very special time - the Secret Season at Grootbos. Traverse fynbos-clad landscapes to learn all about the Cape Floral Kingdom and the unique Erica irregularis on a 4-wheel drive flower safari. Explore ancient caves and forage for mussels along a rugged coastline. Experience the majesty of the Marine Big 5 and head into the fields to harvest honey.