The Offbeat Goat Collection
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Gansbaai, South Africa
South Africa / Gansbaai & De Hoop Nature Reserve / Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
A splurge-worthy eco-forward lodge offering a unique rustic-luxe getaway and unforgettable coastal experience
With its fynbos scrub and flowered fields, nature plays muse at this mission-driven eco-resort: a sophisticated sanctuary of wood, stone, and glass blending seamlessly into the natural surroundings. Hailed as a pioneer in regenerative tourism, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve has conservation and community upliftment baked into its DNA. And don't think sustainability and luxury can't go hand in hand.
Surrounded by flower-clad fields and scented milkwood trees, these eco-forward lodges are sleek, stylish, and dressed to impress, blending the old with the new. The oasis of minimalist design meets old African panache stands behind its “luxury meets harmony with nature” tagline and is undoubtedly the pick of the bunch in our South Africa collection.
“A melting pot of biodiversity, culture, and natural wonder… At Grootbos, we go beyond simply conserving this pristine wilderness we call home. We’re constantly researching, innovating, and pioneering new ways of doing things – in order to transform the lives of community members as well as preserve 2500 hectares of botanical and wildlife treasures.”
—Grootbos Nature Reserve
the look.
The recently revamped Garden Lodge presents 11 stylish suites extending gracefully from the milkweed canopy, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Infused with style and authenticity, the interiors seamlessly blend raw timber, brushed concrete, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows framing the awe-inspiring ocean vistas. This family-friendly retreat exudes a sophisticated ambiance, complete with all the proper luxury touches, you’d expect from a 5-star luxury resort: snug wood-burning fireplaces, premium linens, fluffy duvets, and opulent tubs overlooking Walker Bay.
On the other hand, the Forest Lodge provides a more intimate escape, nestled amidst the forest and connected by charming walkways. The spacious interiors feature a refined rustic-chic design with thoughtful touches, seamlessly integrating nature into the living space. Imagine outdoor showers, private wooden decks, and sweeping views of the fynbos below.
And both lodges are equally enchanting inside as they are outside, with drool-worthy pools, expansive decks, and nature trails weaving their way through endless tangled milkwood trees, wild dunes, and fynbos scrub.
the experience.
spectacular nature
Engage in one of the many nature-centric activities, including coastal walks, floral safaris, or marine safaris tracking the marine “big 5” (African penguin, Cape fur seal, bottlenose and humpback dolphins, great white shark, and southern right whale).
pool with a view
Brave the cold and swim in the stylish infinity pools.
sustainability stories
Tap into a wealth of knowledge on Grootbos’s sustainable practices.
detox + wellness
Indulge in a calming wellness treatment under the ancient milkwood forest. Or simply fritter away the day, taking in the Walker Bay views from your private deck.
the impact.
Grootbos continues to be a pioneer in conserving local biodiversity, protecting wildlife, and safeguarding natural resources, with sustainability at the heart of everything they do.
Conservation-driven
The Reserve is one of the 10 Global Ecosphere Retreats in the Long Run network (Zeitz Foundation) that protects the environment and empowers the local communities. Recipient of numerous eco-tourism awards: Responsible Tourist Award, Conde Nast Traveller’s Annual Green list, and Imvelo’s winner for responsible tourism.
Community-focused
All conservation initiatives focus on the local community's social upliftment, providing nature-based livelihoods that include locals in their conservation efforts. Projects include: Green Futures, Growing the Futures, the Youth Development Program, and Future Trees.
Culinary sustainability
Emphasis is on sourcing local through their successful Growing the Future organic farm or local suppliers within a certain radius from the hotel.
Waste, water, and energy management
Grootbos is single-use plastic-free. Kitchen waste is passed on to the Grootbos Foundation Growing the Future’s farm pigs, water is bottled onsite, and all candles are recycled.
at a glance.
$$$-$$$$
good to know
Grootbos offers different options: The Garden Lodge (11 family-friendly, one to two-bedroom suites), a Forest Lodge (16 free-standing contemporary suites built on the hillside), and two high-end splurge-worthy private villas. Garden Lodge welcomes children of all ages.
location
R43 between Stanford and Gansbaai, Western Cape
*Photos courtesy of: Grootbos Private Nature Reserve and Wetu.
Stays in South Africa
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