Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities on earth and many clients choose to also spend time on the Cape Peninsula before or after safari. Here, you can find the “Marine Big Five” – Whales, Dolphins, Seals, Penguins and Sharks! We stayed at Grootbos, Private Nature Reserve, a luxury eco-reserve located near the Southern tip of Africa, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. Accommodations are individual garden or forest lodges. I fell in love, however, with the two large villas which are absolutely perfect for a multi-generational family or a group of friends celebrating a big occasion. Each villa is assigned a private chef, wine steward, and naturalists to accompany guests on excursions exploring the flora, fauna and activities of the resort and region. Horseback riding, fat tire cycling in the sand dunes, hikes, whale watching, cage shark diving, picnics and winery visits are some of the must-do’s that will engage active guests while staying at Grootbos and exploring the beauty of the Cape Peninsula!
My pictures won’t do justice, so instead check out this video which will give you an idea of what exploring the Marine Big Five in the “Serengeti of the Sea” – https://www.grootbos.com/en/gallery#gallery-2
Fat Bike riding on the sand dunes was definitely my favorite activity of the trip. Unreal landscape and exhilarating down hill rides. This is an activity for everyone who enjoys adventure. Truly a blast!
The experience starts on guided trails through the fynbos. The landscape transitions into the dramatic dune landscapes and finally to the white sands of the Walker Bay coast.
Birds, seals, dolphins and whales (in season) are frequent sightings in this natural wonderland. The extra thick 4.7 inch tyres ensure that you won’t get stuck and that the dunes are easily navigated.
There’s something special about seeing a place on horseback. Take a slow trot as you appreciate the views or ride down the sweeping sand dunes, mountains and coast line.
Horse riding at Grootbos is for the novice through to the expert rider, with 18 expertly trained horses in the stable on the reserve.
Grootbos Villas – Many of our clients travel to Africa on a multi-generational trip or in the company of several families. Starting or ending a trip through South Africa by taking over one of the two large private villas at Grootbos is highly recommended.
With a villa rental, guests benefit from a private chef, lots of space to unwind, and the opportunity to do all of your activities in private, expertly coordinated by your assigned concierge. A day of whale watching or shark cage diving in the comfort of your charter yacht or a day of visiting local and highly acclaimed wine farm on the Cape Peninsula with your group is a wonderful way to bookend a magical holiday! The villas come with private pool, sauna, gym, game rooms, stunning kitchens and plenty of space to gather.
Although certainly the Cape Peninsula is a magnificent beach destination during their summer, many of my clients find themselves on Safari during our summer which is winter in the Southern Hemisphere. It is an ideal time for spotting wildlife on Safari and whale watching is at its peak but it is not exactly beach weather. This video will give you and idea of all there is to do at Grootbos during the Cape winter – magical! https://www.grootbos.com/en/gallery#gallery-1
