Move to the rhythm of nature
Take a journey you will never forget
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An idyllic getaway like no other

Enjoy the best of what Africa has to offer in truly luxurious style, while at the same time contributing to the preservation of the environment and the upliftment of local communities

Harmonious, responsible connection to nature

Grootbos is an award-winning pioneer in progressive tourism. Not only does the region encourage tourists to lessen their impact on the environment and “leave no trace” – Grootbos actually has programmes in place to revitalise this fragile environment. The region is home to animals of conservation concern, and all who work here are committed to creating a harmonious, interconnected and symbiotic balance.

Exhilarating ways to experience what Africa has to offer

Grootbos boasts a wide and diverse range of breathtaking experiences, enabling you to enjoy the many facets of this alluring world. From the high-octane pleasures of shark cage diving to the more meditative practice of whale-watching, there is an activity for every personality and every mood.

World-class culinary excellence curated to your personal tastes

At Grootbos Villas, your experience is curated to your tastes and individual needs. You have a personal chef, a private guide and driver at your fingertips. Your entire stay runs according to your schedule, and on your personal clock. World-class meals are prepared from locally sourced ingredients, and served to you at any time you desire them.

Awards & Mentions

Best Family Hotel in the world
Hideaway of the Year
Top 100 Hotels in the World
2013 - Best Hotel
The 101 Best Hotels in the World
Finalist: Tourism for Tomorrow Awards

Progressive, natural, inclusive

Each of our villas is designed to exist in harmony with its environment. Yet we take it a step further than conservation. We’re constantly researching, innovating and pioneering new ways to protect this unique fynbos kingdom and its abundance of plants, birds, mammals and amphibians. We’re passionate about organic living and fresh, locally sourced produce. And we believe in including, uplifting and empowering the local communities that share this beautiful environment with us. You’ll soon discover why we’ve been honoured with multiple eco-tourism awards.

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Explore our Villas

Sample the breathtaking opulence of a world apart

  • Rooms
  • Living Areas
  • Luxury Comforts
  • Exterior and Views

Breathtaking, unforgettable experiences

From deep-sea encounters to private flights to the magnificent villas themselves, Grootbos Villas offers possibilities beyond your wildest imaginings.

Spectacular whale-watching trips

Enjoy exclusive viewing time with the ocean’s most magnificent creatures, accessible through private trips on land, sea and air. On your privately chartered boat, you’ll get undivided viewing time and the accompaniment of a marine biologist.

Face-to-face shark encounters

A shark cage diving experience is unforgettable, which is why you’ll only want to share it with those closest to you. Charter an entire boat for undivided viewing time, and learn about the habits of the undersea predators from your dedicated marine biologist.

Tiny, exquisite worlds

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.

Discover our exquisite coastline

With some of the most pristine beaches in the world, we can offer you everything from solitary walks along the water’s edge, historical cave tours led by our guides, sun tanning with whales in front of you, or snacking on a picnic as the sun goes down.

Nurture in Nature

Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Grootbos, where every experience is designed to nurture your body, mind, and spirit. Whether it's unwinding with soothing spa treatments or exploring the breathtaking surroundings, each experience aims to refresh your body, mind, and spirit, creating a lasting sense of wellbeing.

Luxurious Cruise on the Klein River

Set out on the Lady Stanford, an exclusive luxury boat cruise down the Klein River from Stanford Village towards the Hermanus Estuary and back. 

Whale Watching
Shark Cage Diving
Botanical 4x4 Tour
Coastal Safari
Immersive Wellbeing
Lady Stanford River Cruise
Our private Villas provide a sanctuary where opulence meets nature. Indulge in luxurious accommodation, breathtaking views, and curated experiences.
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The Grootbos Florilegium

Celebrating our botanical heritage and the unique ecology of the Cape Floral Kingdom through the medium of art.

Where Nature Meets Art

FLORILEGIUM (flôrəˈlējēəm).
A collection of illustrations featuring plants from a specific garden or region.

Discover the Grootbos Florilegium, a unique collection of botanical illustrations by a collaboration of local and international artists. The collection depicts the rare, endangered and charismatic plants found on the Grootbos reserve and surrounding regions. What makes these artworks even more distinctive is the inclusion of insects, pollinators and other creatures associated with the flora.

Connect with us to begin creating your unique getaway experience

Testimonials

Grootbos, the Cape's best kept secret. Amazing for walking, running, mountain biking, and horse riding as often as you want.

Adam F - South Africa

The villas are gorgeous, and little touches like lit fires upon one's return from dinner, and hot water bottles in bed made it extra special.

Liza H - South Africa

The highlight of the best trip of our lives - We loved the location immensely!

Ryan Danz - United States

Tranquil beauty - we enjoyed horseback riding, 4x4 tour, caves, whale watching, the spa and of course the food. There were other activities offered but our kids loved the horses.

Wesley Bewick - Gabon

It is very difficult to put down in words what you actually experience when visiting Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. It is as if all the elements just come together and then you experience this in luxury in a natural enviroment.

Werner P - South Africa

Exceptional place, we enjoyed wonderful sundowners as we watched for whales, flew above the bay to watch whales from the sky and went on a flower safari.

Charlotte Murray - United States

Our villa was really great, a sea view straight out from the bed, a beautiful fireplace and one of the best bathrooms I've ever seen!

Chad S - United Kingdom

Explore the Grootbos Private Villas

Explore the site for a taste of what Grootbos Villas has to offer

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. We offer South African residents an exclusive discounted rate and additional benefits.