Complimentary land-based activities range from guided flower safaris through the ancient milkwood forests on open 4x4 vehicles to hikes on walking trails up fynbos-clad mountains or gentle horseback rides, with ponies available for children. Picnic on the beach or walk along the rocky shores and explore the ancient coastal caves. Whale watching from the coastline between Hermanus and De Kelders is a highlight of the area as Southern Right whales migrate to the warm waters just off shore to calve from July to November – choose a prime spot on the headland, take a boat trip for a closer encounter or witness the spectacle from the air on a scenic flight.
Beyond the reserve, head out for a day of wine tasting in the Overberg’s wine farms or explore the small local villages of Africa's most southerly tip. At the heart of Grootbos is the Grootbos Foundation, a socially and environmentally responsible programme designed to improve the lives of the local community – guests are invited to learn more on a ‘Living the Future’ tour.
Garden Lodge
Villa Exterior
Forest Lodge Suite
Forest Lodge Wine Cellar
Villa Patio Area
Beach Sundowners
Cave Experience
Cottage Lounge
Forest Boma
Experience a Big Marine Five safari (whales, penguins, sharks, seals and dolphins) on an eco-friendly vessel, spotting the animals up close accompanied by specialist marine biologists and guides to offer up incredible facts.
From secret supper clubs to experimental fine dining, transcend stereotypes on a bespoke gourmet voyage to find the freshest flavours in South Africa’s most fertile pockets.
May half term breaks are an easy way to sneak in some early summer sun and warmth as a family; little ones will relish the excitement of exploring somewhere new during their time off school, while grown-ups relish a week of rest before the fast pace of summer starts.
Ever since the storied explorers of yesteryear set off in search of civilisations new, travel has widened our view of the world and our place within it. But how have past odysseys influenced our present-day wanderings and what will globetrotting look like in the future?
Feel at home in a lodge that exudes solitude and tranquility, where quiet moments can be spent on the expansive viewing deck overlooking the Great Fish River watching elephant and buffalo come to drink.
Ecca Lodge makes an exceptional safari base, laid-back and even a little funky; it is the antithesis of stuffy and old fashioned.
Of all the lodges in our Shamwari portfolio, this is the most luxurious, although the luxury is understated and the ambience anything but pretentious.
