Caves and Beaches

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 a cave tour – you’ll feel closer to the earth as you get to know this exquisite coastline.

The best beaches in the world

Pick up a handful of shells when strolling along the endless white sandy beaches, listen to the waves crashing and marvel at the glorious views.
A visit to our beaches offers relaxation, inspiration or solitude, depending on how you choose to spend your time.

At the foot of our reserve lies the cradle of human culture; caves that were home of our ancestors from the Middle Stone Age through the Later Stone Ages.

Discover the ancient secrets the coastal caves hold. Soak up panoramic views, through the naturally casted window which after the rock shelter was named.

  • Watch some of the best sunsets you’ve ever seen while enjoying a drink on the rocks.
  • Secret beaches waiting to be discovered
  • Enjoy the fresh sea breeze, with the ocean all around you.
  • Learn more about marine life and spot the rare black oystercatcher, Cape clawless otter and other coastal creatures.

From Our Expert Guides

Clayton Niemand
"Visiting Walker Bay during Secret Season with its endless stretches beaches and azure blue waters is the epitome of a paradise."

Secret Season Special

 The Secret Season Special includes a 3 night stay in a private free standing luxury suite, full board and an array of activities and adventures to choose from. This exclusive package is valid from May through to July from R 4 450 per person, per night sharing. Offer subject to availability.

View our Secret Season Special

Testimonials

Magnificent - whale watching is a must, whether from the deck of your room or a coastal walk or by boat.

Nicolette Barnes - South Africa

Amazing few days in glamorous wilderness resort.

Niamh G - United Kingdom

Tranquil beauty - we enjoyed horseback riding, 4x4 tour, caves, whale watching, the spa and of course the food. There were other activities offered but our kids loved the horses.

Wesley Bewick - Gabon

#ExploreGrootbos Short Films

WHERE WINE MEETS WILDERNESS

Grootbos is set amidst the celebrated Overberg wine region. Discover and experience the award-winning wines of this region. Enjoy guided tours and tastings at renowned wine farms, experience food and wine pairings, and learn from our sommeliers about the wines they love and the stories behind them.

The Gentle Giants of the Sea

Each year, the months of June through to December, mark the return of the Southern Right Whales. Their playful lobbing, breaching and their charismatic presence brings everyone out to the shore edges. The Walker Bay coast below Grootbos offers an unrivalled opportunity to watch these majestic, giants of the deep.

An Ancient Milkwood Forest

Discover an enchanting 1000 year old Milkwood forest tucked away in the heart of Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. Experience a sanctuary of nature where the air is filled with the sweet, heady scent of seasonal flowers and the landscape sings with the sound of a million insects and birds.

Conserving Our Future

Conservation of the Cape Floral Kingdom has always been our mission. This has helped Grootbos become an award-winning leader in sustainable tourism. Learn more about the 3500 hectares of land under our protection and our conservation efforts in the hub of the Cape Floral Kingdom.

The Cape Floral Kingdom

The Cape Floral Kingdom is a ‘biodiversity hotspot’ offering a unique floral landscape where endemic floral species, birds, insects and animals abound. The 907 recorded plant species in our 3500 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.

THE GREAT WHITE SHARK CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

The Walker Bay region is home to the most accessible of the Great White Shark colonies in the world. This fascinating apex marine predator can grow to over 6 meters in length and live to over 70 years. Our partner Marine Dynamics will ensure a fascinating shark experience. Get your adrenalin pumping as you face these apex predators during a cage dive, or experience them from the comfort of their luxury boat.

Enjoy the warmth of our hospitality

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