Helpful Info and FAQs

Have a question about getting to Grootbos or staying with us? Or, just curious to know more about this exquisite part of the world? Read on for directions, safety tips and more.

From Cape Town

Directions

Take the N2 from Cape Town, past the airport to Somerset West. Either follow the N2 over Sir Lowry's Pass turning onto the R43 after the Houhoek Pass, or take the R44 along the coast and turn onto the R43 to Hermanus. Drive through Hermanus and Grootbos is situated 13km past Stanford on the R43.

From the Garden Route

Directions

The N2 brings you west past Swellendam and Riviersonderend. 10km past Riviersonderend turn onto the R326 to Stanford. At Stanford turn left onto the R43. Grootbos is situated 13 km from Stanford on the R43.

Coastal Scenic Route from Cape Town

Directions

The drive from Cape Town will take you along the R44 from Gordon’s Bay to Hermanus. One of the top scenic routes in Southern Africa, it hugs the coastline with amazing views of the ocean (and possibly even whales between July and November). The route winds through the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, known for its beautiful fynbos, high mountain peaks, steep kloofs, valleys and several tributaries of the Palmiet River.

En-route to Grootbos you can visit Stony Point in Betty’s Bay, which is home to one of only three breeding colonies of African Penguins on the South African mainland. There are pathways leading past the penguin nests and you’ll have opportunities to snap photographs of these amazing creatures.

After leaving Stony Point you’ll pass the Harold Porter Botanical Garden towards Kleinmond. Once you’ve reached Kleinmond the R43 leads you towards Hermanus, which is wedged between mountain and sea offering spectacular views over Walker Bay. Drive through Hermanus, pass Stanford and you’ll arrive at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve.

En-route to Grootbos

We may be an unforgettable destination but the journey here is an experience in its own right.  Marvel at dramatic unspoilt views, stop in at some unique attractions and absorb all the exquisite natural beauty that surrounds you.

Faq

What time can I check-in?

From 14:00 on the day of your arrival.

When do I need to check-out?

You need to check-out by 11:00 (late-check-outs only on request)

Do the suites have internet access?

Yes, all our suites are equipped with internet access. Wireless internet is available in the main lodges as well.

Do you offer room service?

We don’t offer room service due to the nature of the setup of our suites.

When is the full payment for my accommodation due?

Full payment is due 30 days prior to arrival. You can pay via credit card (AMEX, VISA and Mastercard) as well as bank transfer.

What is included in your rates?

All meals (breakfast, lunch and 6-course dinner) as well as all land-based activities.

What activities are not included in my stay?

Boat-based whale watching (July - December), Dyer Island boat trip (January - June), shark cage diving, scenic flights, spa treatments, beach horse riding and quad biking.

Which time of year is best for whale watching?

From July - December.

Which time of year is best for viewing the Cape Floral Kingdom?

From July – December.

How far are you situated from the Garden Route?

Grootbos is conveniently situated between Cape Town and the start of the Garden Route.

How far are you situated from Cape Town?

160km's (100 miles) – which is about a 2-hour drive.

Grootbos Foundation and global recognition

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.

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A UNIQUE SOUTH AFRICAN EXPERIENCE

Grootbos invites you to experience our country's most precious floral biome and marine wilderness like never before. Enjoy unique guided experiences while being treated to five-star luxury at our lodges and villas. We offer South African residents an exclusive discounted rate and additional benefits. 

What's new at Grootbos - New Garden Lodge and Florilegium

The last year has been a busy one at Grootbos. We rebuilt our beloved Garden Lodge entirely and re-opened it in April 2022. We also officially launched the Grootbos Florilegium - Africa's first contemporary florilegium - which is a collection of botanical illustrations created by local and international artists, depicting the charismatic plants found on our reserve and the surrounding regions.

Click below to learn more about these exciting developments.

See New Garden Lodge See Florilegium