Walks and Hikes

Reconnect with nature and yourself by walking or hiking along one of our many trails. The fresh crisp air and expansive views will recharge you and leave you with a clearer mind and rested soul.

In harmony with nature

Meander through our ancient Milkwood forest. The earthy aromas will soothe your soul. Up for a brisk walk?

Enjoy a guided hike across rolling hills of fynbos and learn more about the unique species found on Grootbos. Discover the secrets of nature, watch a sunbird sip sweet nectar from a protea, or bushbuck blissfully browsing among the leaves.

Trails are all well marked and easy-to-read maps are available. You can choose between self-guided walks or led by an experienced guide, to learn more about these fascinating and secretive eco-systems.

Be amazed by the intricate detail of an Erica irregularis flower; breath in the sweet aniseed scent of buchu, or listen to the soothing calls of the forest birds.

  • Set your own pace: there are walks and hikes to suit every fitness level.
  • The reserve is perfectly safe and all trails are excellently marked.
  • Choose from mountain, forest or fynbos walks.

From Our Expert Guides

Jo De Villiers
"Exploring the reserve on foot during Secret Season is my favourite activity. It is the most magical time of the year."
Embrace the transformative power of nature by reconnecting with yourself and finding inner harmony.
Explore Immersive Wellbeing

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

A great nature experience. The natural views of this property just blew me away, with it's nature walks as well as great level service from staff and management.

Kent Basson - South Africa

I have hiked for many years and just completed a 3 day hike in the reserve, the nature and fynbos is magic.

Hether S - South Africa

We enjoyed our 3-4 hour hikes through the fynbos very much.

Friederike W - Germany

#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.

See Specials
Enquire Now
Enquire

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.

Our Summer Sun special offers 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