Having worked as a front desk receptionist, I can say from experience that the people at Grootbos look after their staff very well, which makes us want to stay for as long as possible. At least 40% of the staff have remained with the reserve for 5 to 10 years, which is rare in the hospitality industry. Some people have left only to return after a few years of working elsewhere.

It is always in the best interest of companies to train and develop their staff, but at Grootbos, this training is taken to another level. The training is constant and the skills gained have changed people’s lives. Staff develop a feeling of self-worth and are able to provide for their families. The projects help to develop skills that we can feel proud about; from learning about horticulture and bottling water to making candy and jewellery.

The Grootbos ethos is to build a solid foundation for local communties. Instead of outsourcing skillsets, at Grootbos, locals are trained and employed. Kids are provided with a safe haven with sport and development programs where they are taught meaningful life skills.

Grootbos makes a huge effort to ensure that our environment is looked after and protected for future generations. Projects like the Indigenous Fynbos Nursery, Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy, and Future Trees all contribute toward ensuring sustainbility. Additionally, a new project that will connect the reserve to the Cape Agulhas National Park enforces our philosophy that no one is too small to make a difference.

These are just a few of the reasons why Grootbos is a five star experience. The staff go out of their way to make a guest’s stay an amazing experience because our experience working at Grootbos is just as enjoyable.