Grootbos
near Hermanus, Garden Route, South Africa
Wonderful wilderness retreat between Cape Town and the Garden Route, with pristine beaches, whale-watching and horse riding
I always assumed that the name ‘Milkwood’ was a figment
of Dylan Thomas’ ale-oiled imagination. But, 10,000 miles
away at the southern tip of Africa, I found myself in a forest of
real milkwood, or sideroxylon imerme if you prefer: a low,
shady, trunk-twisted canopy alive with chirping birds, crawling
insects, elusive bushbuck and flowers even more colourful than
Dylan’s seamy characters.
I was in Grootbos Private Nature Reserve; 2,500 hectares of coastal
hillside owned and managed by the energetic Lutzeyer brothers, and
an enthusiastic team of conservationists. Since they bought the
property in 1991 they have restored the original fynbos
vegetation, banishing invasive plants and nurturing 100 bird and 30
mammal species. For humans, they built 11 One- and Two-Bedroom
Suites as well as the 16 stylish suites at Forest Lodge,
all hidden discreetly amongst the foliage, and linked by pathways
and a tunnel (no milkwood trees were harmed during the building!).
As a base for nature trails, whale-watching and horse riding, or
just a breath of fresh air between Cape Town and the Garden Route,
it's unbeatable.
Reviewed by Michael Cullen
Last updated 02 March 2012
Highs
- The hidden setting on low, wooded hillsides - you don’t know it’s there until you arrive
- Secluded cottages with sitting rooms and spacious decks
- Pristine sandy beaches nearby, with prime southern right whale-watching from June-December
- Various nature activities run by caring, qualified guides; most of which are included in the price
- A swimming pool and a restaurant at each lodge
- If you want to learn about the world's smallest and most diverse floral kingdom, this is the place to stay
Lows
- Although Grootbos is located in its own nature reserve, don't expect serious game viewing (except for the world’s biggest mammal, the whale, of course) - for this you will need to go to the Eastern Cape or further afield
- It's not cheap, but meals and many activities are included in the price, so we think it's still great value
