Babylonstoren Farm Hotel | Franschhoek
Babylonstoren is one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms. It has a fruit and vegetable garden of beauty and diversity, unique accommodation, fine food and a sense of wellbeing.
• A 250-hectare working wine and fruit farm that dates back over 300 years
• A place so beautiful, a welcome so warm and an experience quite unlike any other
• A quiet corner of the Cape that is surrounded by majestic mountains on three sides where the fynbos is home to many wild creatures
• Service that is both sincere and deeply proud of its heritage
• A garden that celebrates biological diversity
• Fresh food with distinct flavours that celebrates the seasons and the bounty of the garden
• A place to escape from the world and reconnect with it as it ought to be
• A sense of purity, simplicity and quiet where life is uncomplicated but where spontaneity and the unexpected are also celebrated
Your Stay
2 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English
No. Rooms: 29
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Cycling, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Sports, Wine
The pristine Cape Dutch style of our two-bedroom cottages emulate a farm stay experience with thick walls, elegant gables and a hearty fireplace. A contemporary glass cube has been seamlessly added to the 18th-century structure to house a dining and kitchen area. The interiors continue this contemporary pairing with modern four-poster beds and furniture from international design brands such as Kartell, Magis, Philippe Starck and the Bouroullec Bros. Each bedroom also has a luxurious en-suite bathroom. Bookshelves filled with carefully selected books, underfloor heating and free Wi-Fi are just a few of the things that await you. Our cottages are either garden or vineyard facing. A well-stocked personalised bar fridge, as well as breakfast, are included in the room rate. All our two-bedroom cottages are serviced daily and come with a king-size bed, and a king or two single beds in the second bedroom.
4 Cottages available
Each of the slightly larger open-plan cottages has a luxurious en-suite bathroom and lounge area with thick walls, elegant gables and a hearty fireplace. Into this pristine Cape Dutch style, a contemporary glass cube has been seamlessly added to house a kitchen area. The interiors continue this pairing with modern four-poster beds and furniture from international design brands such as Kartell, Magis, Philippe Starck and the Bouroullec Bros. Bookshelves filled with carefully selected books, underfloor heating and free Wi-Fi are just a few of the things that await you. Suites are either garden or vineyard facing, with access to the garden and the farm. A well-stocked personalised bar fridge, as well as breakfast, are included in the room rate. All our one-bedroom cottages come with a king-size bed and are serviced daily.
3 Cottages available
Each open-plan suite has a luxurious en-suite bathroom and lounge area with thick walls, elegant gables and a hearty fireplace. The interiors take on an altogether contemporary feel when paired with the modern lines of furniture by international design brands such as Kartell, Magis, Philippe Starck and the Bouroullec Bros. Bookshelves are filled with a wonderful selection of books while underfloor heating and free Wi-Fi are just a few of the things that await you. A well-stocked personalised bar fridge, as well as breakfast, are included in the room rate. All our one-bedroom suites come with a king-size bed or twin beds and are serviced daily.
6 Suites available
Comfort is key in the one-bedroom Farmhouse suites where a moody interior theme comprising swarthy four-poster king-size beds, dusted moss walls, luxurious en-suite marble bathrooms and generous walk-in cupboards are paired with contemporary furniture and accessories such as extra-length MDF Italia sofas. In addition to the underfloor heating, each room is fitted with a cast-iron stove. Bookshelves filled with a wonderful selection of books and free Wi-Fi are just a few of the things that await you. A well-stocked personalised bar fridge, as well as breakfast, are included in the room rate. All our suites are serviced daily.
9 Suites available
At Fynbos Cottages guests can fully immerge themselves in the beauty of the natural plant habitat of the Western Cape’s mountains. The cottages are newly built in the Cape Dutch style and adjoin vineyards and orchards – ideal for our more adventurous guest
Our Cape Dutch Manor House dates back to 1777. This exclusive house has five bedrooms accommodating ten guests. All rooms have a king-size bed, with two of the rooms having the option of twin beds. Rooms are serviced daily and breakfast is included in the room rate, as well as a well-stocked personalised bar fridge. The interior has been beautifully restored to its former glory, but with a definite contemporary touch. Bookshelves are filled with a wonderful selection of books and the traditional farm kitchen boasts a roaring old wood-burning stove. Guests have access to the garden at all times, with games set up on the private lawn. Curl up in front of the hearty fireplace and admire the architecture, or enjoy refreshments in the garden whilst savouring the exquisite views.
5 Rooms, 10 guest. Exclusive use
Fully equipped kitchen, spacious lounge, private pool and courtyard
Up to ten guests are accommodated in five individual bedrooms, each comprising a fireplace and spacious en-suite with marbled tile floors and luxurious freestanding baths to soak away your worries. Leading off the spacious lounge is a contemporary glass cube, seamlessly encompassing a fully equipped kitchen. The heart of the house is the private central courtyard, offering a gathering space for friends and family to share. A crystal pool in the center of the courtyard is fed by a shallow channel, emulating the streams on the rest of the property and providing the tranquil sound of gently trickling water.
5 Rooms, 10 guest. Exclusive use
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Conference Centre, Gym, Gym (nearby), Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Underfloor Heating
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Credit Card
The days are intentionally unscripted at Babylonstoren, and for our hotel guests, there’s much to do. In addition to exploring our 200 hectares of farm, in season, you can take part in the harvesting of fruit in the orchards or the pruning of our vines. Whatever the season, our garden is an ever-changing tapestry of fruit and vegetable plantings. Hotel guests are invited to join in the harvesting, pruning, planting or picking of our many fruits, herbs, nuts, spices and vegetables. We have maps for five different walks on the farm (available from Reception) and if you’re interested to learn more about the provenance of the garden, do join one of our garden tours that starts daily at 10h00. Booking is essential, so please enquire in advance at Reception.
Our daily guided garden tour starts at the Farm Shop at 10h00. One of our experienced gardeners will be your guide on this tour, during which we encourage guests to pick, taste, smell and touch while walking through our garden. Each of the 300 plant varieties is edible or has medicinal value. The beautiful garden is not only pleasing to the eye, but also provides the restaurants with fresh produce, harvested daily. Our enthusiastic guides will share some of the garden’s special stories with you and give practical gardening tips. We hope you will enjoy our garden and be inspired when you leave to plant your own!
Booking is essential for the garden tour.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat in summer and wellies plus an umbrella in winter. A famous Swedish proverb holds: There ain’t no bad weather, just the wrong clothes.
Entrance fees payable at the gate go to the Babylonstoren Trust for the education of our local children.
Regrettably, no dogs are allowed, as this is a working farm with lots of feathery friends.
Kindly note that all pathways in the garden are gravel and in some areas covered with peach pips.
You can walk or cycle to the dam – it is about 1,5 km. The view from the dam is spectacular and you will be amazed by the abundant bird life. Get a backpack from Reception (see Walk or Run). We have three canoes and life jackets for your rowing expedition – make sure you wear a life jacket. Please note that children have to be accompanied by an adult.
The gym, open from 6h00 to 21h00, is for the exclusive use of adults. We have a great selection of machines to keep you fit. Private yoga sessions are available on request. For more details, please enquire at Reception.
The Tasting Room sits adjacent to the Wine Cellar, offering views of the conical Babylonstoren hill, Simonsberg and the Banghoek Mountains. The eye-catching steel-and-glass creation is a modern link between the two Cape Dutch-style wings of the wine cellar and a perfect reflection of Babylonstoren’s philosophy of embracing both heritage and innovation. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls offer breathtaking views over the vineyards towards the small rocky koppie from which the farm derives its name, while indoors the striking central bar bedecked in vivid green tiles mirrors the lush vineyards beyond. A range of tantalising snack platters with charcuterie, cheese, pâté and fresh fruit and vegetables from the garden are on offer. The platters are an ideal light bite while tasting the Babylonstoren range of wines.
The Tasting Room is accessed via a maturation cellar revamped into a retail space, with exposed brick walls, lofty ceilings and a statuesque curving wall – a display of antique farming implements and packing crates creating a gentle farm motif in the triple-volume space. For guests with a little more time to spare, informative cellar tours offer an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at how the estate’s wines are crafted. The tour includes a walk through the vineyards and a visit to the olive oil production plant.
Come and unwind with us in this perfect spot for wine sipping and cheese nibbling.
The Tasting Room is open daily – from 10h00 to 17h00 in winter and 10h00 to 18h00 in summer.
Daily cellar tours start at the Tasting Room, every hour on the hour, from 11h00 to 15h00.
Booking is advised for groups of 11 to 24 people.
Our wines are best exemplified by the Babylonstoren logo, which consists of the pipe (representing the farmer), the flower (representing the garden) and the bird (representing nature). It is a combination of the very essence of Babylonstoren – keeping things simple and as true to the earth as possible. "It is this that we strive to achieve in our wine," says Charl Coetzee. "Truth to the area we are situated in on the slopes of Simonsberg, and simplicity by making elegant and balanced wines as natural as possible."
You may come across our resident tortises tortoises, our donkeys, the chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese and squirrels that all roam happily, or maybe even a wild steenbok. Keep your eyes and ears open – you may be lucky enough to see or hear the fish eagle. We have spotted 58 bird species on Babylonstoren. Guests are welcome to use the bird book in the Butterfly Room for reference.
For a closer look, we also have binoculars available at Reception.
As we are passionate about our garden at Babylonstoren, we welcome fellow gardeners, horticulturists, botanists or those who are interested in learning more about gardening. If you’re happy to get your hands dirty (you'll be planting, harvesting, pruning and mulching) and eager to learn and/or share your knowledge, we'd love to welcome you as a volunteer at Babylonstoren. You’ll work with our gardeners in every aspect of the garden but most importantly get a chance to contribute to the garden in a real way.
The farm is a paradise for children! Our beloved donkeys, Meisiekind and Lulu, live
opposite the Farm Shop. We invite our young guests to help feed the donkeys, to collect eggs and to help harvest fruit and vegetables from our garden, especially for the breakfast table. Kids are also welcome to help our bakers knead and bake delicious farm breads. And don’t forget to go on the scavenger hunt. Please arrange these activities at Reception.
Our outdoor pool is not just another infinity pool! Take a plunge or relax afloat the tractor tube. Diving is not permitted and children must be supervised at all times.
Enjoy bass fishing at the farm dam. Fishing rods are available from Reception.
We have bicycles available for adults as well as children to explore the farm. Bottled still water and helmets are available from Reception, and in your room you’ll find a map.
The map in your room suggests six trails for walking or running. These vary in length, the shortest being a mere 5-minute walk. A backpack with water, sun lotion and a small first-aid kit is available from Reception. Please ask if you need anything else, and then go out and enjoy the abundance of fresh air and country views!
The Tasting Room overlooks our beautiful vineyards and the iconic Babylonstoren conical hill.
We offer five cellar tours a day, every hour on the hour, from 11h00 to 15h00. Let us know if you wish to join the tour – we prefer to keep the tours small and intimate, therefore limited space is available. We depart from the Tasting Room and our first stop is the vineyard, after which the tour moves to the olive production plant where we show you how extra virgin olive oil is made. Next is a visit to the wine production cellar where the details of the winemaking process are explained. We proceed to our underground barrel maturation cellar. Last but not least is an informative yet relaxed wine tasting with your guide. The Tasting Room is nice and cool in summer, with cosy fireplaces for chilly winter days. A choice of four delicious snack platters can be ordered while you taste your way through our range of wines.
Open seven days a week 10h00–18h00 (summer) or 10h00–17h00 (winter). Cellar tours start at the Tasting Room at 11h00, 12h00, 13h00, 14h00 & 15h00 and last approximately one hour. Booking at Reception is advised.
Our two signature treatments are the hammam water ritual and our bamboo massage. In addition, we have a wonderful selection of classic treatments.
To book a treatment with one of our qualified therapists, please contact reception. Please arrive 15 minutes earlier than your booked treatment time. Late arrivals will be able to enjoy the time remaining on their treatment but will be charged for the full treatment. Lockers are provided for your valuables.
The Garden Spa has a garden-inspired food menu to replenish, revive and delight you. Please note that no glass containers or alcoholic beverages are allowed at the pool. Although we do not serve food or drinks at the pool, we can offer you chilled still or sparkling water from the gym should you be thirsty. If you would like to enjoy other eats or drinks, you can do so at the Greenhouse, which is right next to the pool.
Booking is essential for spa treatments. Open Monday to Sunday 8h00–17h00.
Private yoga sessions are available on request. For more details, please enquire at Reception.
Our Bakery offers scrumptious Italian-inspired evening meals but also supplies our shop with freshly baked bread to be enjoyed with delicious local cheeses from our Cheese Room. We grow our own wheat on the farm which is stoneground after harvest. This flour is sold in the Farm Shop but is also used by our own bakers who, under the guidance of our head baker Ernie Beck, make sure we have freshly baked bread early every morning for our restaurants and the Tasting Room. We have a variety of breads, including sourdough, rye, white and whole wheat.
At dinners in the Bakery, we serve our food family style – guests dish up for themselves from wooden boards placed on their table. Our Italian-inspired set menu starts with an antipasti and salad offering. This is followed by wood-fired pizza straight from the oven, to be enjoyed to your heart’s content. We round off the meal with a delicious dolce and our famous coffee.
The Bakery is open Wednesday and Friday evenings from 19h00 to 21h00.
Booking is essential. Reservations open two months in advance and can be made between the hours of 8h00 and 17h00.
Priority will be given to hotel guests for bookings.
Please enquire about options for groups. For groups of 13 to 18 guests, a deposit is required to secure the booking. Should you wish to bring a larger group, we have private function venues available.
Kindly note that all pathways on the farm are roughly surfaced and not intended for high heels.
Nature's medicine chest is an ongoing discovery of old and new herbs tried and tested over centuries by different cultures around the world. Originally collected from the wild, the best plants were selected, cultivated and shared.
Our medicinal garden at Babylonstoren includes a range of beautiful species – some more powerful, aromatic, rare or even dangerous than others but all with an interesting story worth discovering. The central layout of the garden follows the form of a body with herbs to heal from the head, heart, lungs, digestive system, organs, skin, bones and feet. The trees are some of the “giants” in African healing traditions. Herbs along the outer wall follow the seasons, summer to winter, specially selected to heal, soothe and balance the body through the time-honoured pleasure of tea.
We invite you to enjoy this healing garden as a quiet space, slowing down and blending herbal teas as guided by our gardener Gundula. Seated on the floor of the shaded bamboo gloriette, a selection of savoury and sweet confections is served to complement the infusions you create. Only fresh, seasonal ingredients are used and great care is taken in the preparation.
For the ultimate tickle, do not go before dipping your toes in the pond to experience the nibbling Garra rufa fish while reflecting on the moment and aiming to balance pleasure and health.
Tea rituals take place at 9h30 on Tuesdays.
Our Healing Garden is a restful place for quiet reflection and tranquillity. Regrettably, children under the age of 10 years are not permitted.
Reservations are weather dependent and booking is essential. Reservations open two months in advance and can be made between the hours of 8h00 and 17h00. A deposit is required to secure bookings.
Priority will be given to hotel guests for tea ritual bookings.
Kindly note that all pathways on the farm are roughly surfaced and not intended for high heels.
Housed in an old cow shed, Babel is a wonderful mix of Cape Dutch architecture with contemporary glass walls that makes for a simple yet edgy environment in which to try our tasty yet often unconventional combinations. We have a farm-to-fork philosophy, which means we like to serve food that is seasonal and that reflects our "pick, clean and serve" approach.
Because our menu is guided by what is available in the garden, our food always reflects the season, and so in summer we may serve you a yellow salad of pineapple, gooseberries, granadillas, yellow tomatoes and apricots while in winter a slow-cooked leg of lamb in red wine is more likely. Dessert subscribes to four flavours, namely salty, bitter, sweet and sour. And while our meals are creative, we don't like to tamper unduly with our food. Our meals are always clear in structure, so that fruit and vegetables gathered daily from the garden is often served with its skin on. Helpings are generous and depending on the weather you can take your meal in the glass-enclosed restaurant or under the plane trees in the courtyard.
Breakfast: Open daily, 8h00–9h30
Lunch: Wednesday to Sunday, 12h00–15h30
Dinner: Open daily from 19h00
Booking is essential. Reservations open two months in advance and can be made between the hours of 8h00 and 17h00 on +27 (0)21 863 3852 or enquiries@babylonstoren.com.
Hotel guests enjoy priority for restaurant bookings.
Please enquire about options for groups. For groups of 13 to 18 guests, a set menu will be offered and a 50% deposit is required to secure the booking. Should you wish to bring a larger group, we have private function venues available.
The restrooms at Babel restaurant are wheelchair friendly.
Kindly note that all pathways on the farm are gravel, and covered with peach pips in some areas of the garden.
At the rear of the garden, tucked away between the oak trees, our Greenhouse offers guests the perfect place to rest and enjoy delicious home-baked cakes, coffee, tea and fresh garden juices. We also offer more substantial meals of artisanal breads with handcrafted cheeses and dressed meats, served with our homemade herb oils, chutneys, preserves and relishes, as well as delicious, fresh garden salads.
The 26 metre vintage conservatory in dark green steel was custom built for Babylonstoren in France by Serres et Ferronneries d'Antan. Paired with a collection of brick-red tables and colourful green Luxembourg chairs (the classic park chair design), the Greenhouse is a surprising but thoroughly logical refreshment station for guests who have completed the garden tour.
The Greenhouse menu subscribes to the self-same "pick, clean and serve" philosophy as Babel, with a strong emphasis on honest food with little to no fuss. All our food is served picnic-style in wooden crates with the preserves, jams and salads packaged in weck jars, while fresh bread from our wood-fired oven come wrapped in the iconic blue-and-white Babylonstoren paper.
Despite its obvious aesthetic appeal and its function as a refreshment station, the Greenhouse also performs a vital role in the garden. It is here where plants or varieties are brought when they struggle to make it in the formal garden due to the Western Cape’s winter rainfall or the lack of humidity in summer. And so you'll find that exotic granadillas, ginger, cardamom, pineapples, dragonfruit, vanilla and even a baobab all reside here.
The Greenhouse is open Monday to Sunday from 10h00 to 16h00.
Bookings
There is no need to make a reservation for the Greenhouse. Guests are seated on a first-come, first-served basis. We may have a waiting list during very busy times.
Should you wish to bring a group of 13 to 25 guests, kindly make a reservation. These reservations open two months in advance. For even larger groups, we have private function venues available.
Our Bakery offers scrumptious Italian-inspired evening meals on Wednesday & Friday, but also supplies our shop with freshly baked bread to be enjoyed with delicious cheeses from our Cheese Room. We grow our own wheat on the farm which is stoneground after harvest. This flour is sold in the Farm Shop, but is also used by our own bakers who, under the guidance of our head baker Ernie Beck, make sure we have freshly baked bread early every morning for our restaurants and the Tasting Room. We have a variety of breads, including sourdough, rye, white and whole wheat.
At dinners in the Bakery, we serve our food family style – guests dish up for themselves from wooden boards placed on their table. Our Italian-inspired set menu starts with an antipasti and salad offering. Main course may be enjoyed to your heart’s content. We round off the meal with a delicious dolce and our famous coffee.
Booking is essential. Reservations open two months in advance and can be made between the hours of 8h00 and 17h00 on +27 (0)21 863 3852 or enquiries@babylonstoren.com.
Hotel guests enjoy priority for restaurant bookings.
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve Forest Lodge | Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Nestled in an ancient Milkwood forest in the peaceful Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, surrounded by rolling hills of fynbos and majestic mountains, The Forest Lodge features 16 freestanding luxury suites beneath an ancient forest canopy. Each of the suites is stylishly furnished with canopy beds, spacious en-suite bathrooms, separate lounges with cosy fireplaces and private wooden decks with spectacular panoramic views. The lodge features a variety of elegant dining venues, a bar, lounge, curio shop and conference centre. Spacious wooden decks and an infinity pool beckon you to relax and unwind. As the evening descends, cosy fireplaces and subtle lighting create a warm, romantic atmosphere for the perfect dining experience.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
5 Star
Lodge
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, German, Xhosa
No. Rooms: 16
Special Interests: Adventure, Beach / Coastal, Birding, Cycling, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
One-Bedroom Luxury Suite
Each suite features a spacious bedroom with en-suite bathroom with double washbasins, double shower and bath, separate lounge with tea & coffee making facilities and a separate bathroom, minibar, cosy fireplace, flatscreen TV and DVD player for in-room entertainment. The spacious suites open out onto a private deck with outside showers overlooking Walker Bay. Two of the 16 Suites do have a private plunge pool on the deck (no additional costs).
- Unbeatable views from all rooms in the suite
- Freestanding suite nestled in the ancient Milkwood Forest
- Fresh fruit basket in suite daily
- Cozy Fireplace
- Air-conditioning
- Outside Shower
- Under floor Heating
- Free Wi-Fi
- DVD Player & Satellite TV
- Minibar
- Tea- & Coffee making facilities
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Conference Centre, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Detached Private Bathroom, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fireplace, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Underfloor Heating
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card, Room Service
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, the fresh air filling your lungs and exhilaration pumping through your veins.
Horse riding at Grootbos is suitable for anyone, whether you’re a complete novice or a more experienced rider. Go for a relaxed ride through the fynbos or ride one of our special horses that are specifically trained for the beach. Our 22 horses at the Grootbos stables are well exercised and expertly trained, while all of our guides have years of experience in dealing with these noble animals.
The Southern Right whales visit Walker Bay each year and being witness to them in action whilst they breach and blow is a very special experience to observe.These peaceful giants of the deep come to Walker Bay to mate and calf in the sanctuary of the Bay.. The Walker Bay rocky outcrops offer close viewing points from elevated positions.The Grootbos guides know all the best spots and this guided experience is an experience of a lifetime.
Grootbos Nature Reserve has an exclusive boat trip, through Dyer Island Cruises, leaving every morning from Kleinbaai harbour. Besides seeing the amazing whales, this trip offers a complete experience of the Marine Big5, which includes the whales, dolphins, African Penguins, Cape Fur Seals and surface viewing of the Great White Shark. The boat comfortably accommodates 20 guests, has a toilet, upper decks, shelter from the sun as well as snacks and drinks provided onboard. The boat also has specialized guides, who can provide all the facts about the whales as well as other interesting information about the magnificent marine life. As these gentle giants are very curious, they often swim right up to the boat to get a better view of the boat and the guests. This trip takes about 2 hours and is a marine experience not to be missed!
Boat-based whale watching is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.
One of the most exciting experiences at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is the Great White Shark cage diving. Gansbaai has the reputation for being the shark capital of the world. Divers and adventurers travel from all over the world to watch this magnificent creature in the waters around Dyer Island. Every day a number of boats leave Kleinbaai harbour to spend a few hours on the water to view the Great White Sharks from the boat or to go diving in a cage with these elegant and large predators. This is a once in a lifetime experience not to be missed!
Cage Diving (No diving experience required!)
This is truly one of the most adventurous activities on our planet, coming face to face with the Great White Shark. No diving experience is required, and all equipment is provided on board. When the sharks are around the boat, the divers get into the cage and the shark is lured to within meters from the cage. As the shark approaches, divers duck under water and marvel in amazement as this awe inspiring creature swims past the cage.
Surface Viewing
Grootbos guests have the choice to either enter the cage on the shark boat or view these magnificent creatures from the top deck of the boat. Surface Viewing is normally suitable for people wanting to see the shark from out of water and not necessarily come face to face with it inside the water. However, it is often commented that one gets a better view of the sharks from the top deck.
Shark Cage Diving is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.
Keep still, listen intently and you’ll be amazed at the things you learn on a botanical safari. With the richest temperate flora in the world and six completely new species never discovered by science before, your time at Grootbos will mean that you’ll never look at plants and flowers in quite the same way again.
The 800 recorded plant species in our 2500 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. Learn how a sunbird’s beak fits perfectly into a flower, why the honey our bees produce is completely unique and how important ravaging fires are for bringing forth new life.
As a guest at Grootbos, there are so many different ways to enjoy the beach. You can take a long, relaxing walk on a solitary shore; laze in the sun on the luxurious white sand; or explore the unique coastal ecosystem while looking out for frolicking whales.
Our guides know exactly where to take you for the best swimming, tanning, walking, whale watching, angling and several other oceanic experiences on offer. We’ll transport you to and from the beach and provide you with a picnic lunch and all the beach accessories you need to enjoy your day in the sun.
Grootbos also offers guided beach tours where you can learn about the unique intertidal ecosystem; the abundant marine life; the coastal vegetation; and the geological forces that gave this coast its dramatic form.
A Bird's eyeview of Birding at Grootbos
Birding is akin to stargazing. On cloudless days, you see a myriad of these jewels flickering and floating in the sky, and once you know where and what to look for, you are transfixed by the ethereal pattern and order in their endless motion.
The Grootbos reserve and surrounding areas are a magnet to a wide variety of rare and endemic bird species feeding and breeding in the rich and diverse habitats. You know birding is not for the birds when you see how the Malachite Sunbird, with its bright green iridescent plumage, compete for attention with the flowering aloes and proteas. Grootbos is a birder friendly establishment endorsed by Birdlife SA. Our knowledgeable guides are geared to give bird watchers of all levels a winged overview of these magnificent creatures that enliven our skies and flora with their beauty and procreative activities.
Let's face it, the dazzling tapestry of fynbos wildflowers on Grootbos is not meant to attract tourists - the colourful displays of petals are nature's magic to lure birds and other pollinators to their nectar in exchange for spreading their pollen.
The beaks of the conspicuous endemic Orange-breasted Sunbird and the Southern Double-collared Sunbird are tailor-made for sipping the sweet stuff from the floral tubes of the various Erica species. You cannot miss the male Cape Sugarbird, with its ridiculously long tail (almost 70% of its total length), feeding on the nectar of Protea species. The impressive tail is solely a decorative testimony to manhood - the longer, the better! They whip their tails to attract females and ward off rivals.
In breeding season (September to April) Grootbos guests will encounter a magnitude of feisty and friendly fellows sticking together albeit they are not of the same feather. The diverse habitats - from fynbos, Milkwood and Afromontane forests to riverine scrub and mountain slopes - accommodate at least 120 different bird species, of which 30% are endemic or near endemic to Southern Africa. These include specials such as the Knysna Woodpecker, Cape Clapper-lark and the Southern Tchagra.
Flagship raptors of the area are the majestic Black Harrier, Jackal Buzzard, Forest Buzzard and African Fish-Eagle. The nearby agricultural fields are home to Blue Cranes, the Agulhas Long-billed Lark and the Denham’s Bustard.
Coastal Birding Tours
Grootbos, in partnership with Dyer Island Cruises, also takes guests on a "game viewing" cruise to Dyer Island, where endemics such as the African Black Oystercatcher, Hartlaub’s Gull, Crowned-, Cape- and Bank Cormorant, African Penguin as well as the Cape Gannet flourish. Pelagic species such as the Shy Albatross, Sooty Shearwater and Giant Petrels are also seen from time to time.
The Klipgat Cave outside De Kelders evokes vivid images of pre-historic times when modern man lived haply in symbiotic harmony with nature off the bounty of land and sea when the coastline was still kilometres away. This historical site in the Walker Bay was home to Middle Stone Age peoples some 70 000 to 80 000 years ago when large antelope such as black wildebeest and the extinct “blaauwbok” still abounded in the bay where dolphins, seals and whales now flourish.
Archaeological findings indicate that these primitive folks mainly lived off plants and smaller animals such as dune mole rats, tortoises and hares. They hunted steenbok and eland, while seabirds, shellfish and seals also formed an important part of their diet.
Dubbed Klipgat Cave (stone with a hole) after the remarkable window-like openings in the limestone rock formations that yield spectacular views of the bay and sea, the site is one of the most important cultural assets in the Western Cape. Innumerable stories of the perils and pleasures of yesteryear’s peoples unfold as layer upon layer of deposits reveal fascinating secrets of the tides, temperatures and living conditions of those early times. Later Stone Age pastoralists, believed to be the Khoekhoen/Khoikhoi, already kept sheep, and probably even cattle and dogs, in this area as early as 2 000 years ago.
They chiselled tools such as “needles” and “spatulas” out of bone to create ornaments, shell beads and pendants. Ostrich eggs were fashioned into water flasks, and tortoise shells served as bowls. These artefacts and bone samples are on display in the Cape Town Museum.
Unfortunately, the bulk of tell-tale everyday details of the loves and losses of man’s early ancestors is forever buried in the crags and crevices of this early home. Around 1713, a devastating smallpox epidemic claimed the lives of the entire local human population. The Klipgat Cave is of World Heritage significance and managed by Cape Nature Conservation.
For those who just want to relax we offer an array of spa treatments. It is time to tip-toe into a slower world where the mind can drift away on the vapors of luxurious scents, such as sandalwood, arnica and buchu, while the body melts under the soothing touch of our fully qualified beauty therapist. Pampering takes place in the comfort of your own suite. For the tired body, a therapeutic full body massage is a definite must, leaving you in a state of absolute calmness. For the weary feet, reflexology, including a footbath, will most certainly do the trick. Manicures, pedicures, facials and a host of other treatments are available on request in our Bloom Beauty Salon or in the privacy of the suites at Grootbos.
Spa Treatments are not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.
Enjoy an entrancing stroll through our Milkwood forest or a more revitalising hike up our fynbos-clad mountains, as you begin to understand what makes Grootbos quite so special. From a sunbird sipping from a flower to an ocean vista that leaves you breathless, surprises await you around every corner.
Trails are all well marked and you can choose between self-guided walks or guided walks, to learn more about these fascinating and secretive eco-systems. Gaze into the petals of a King Protea, breathe in the blackcurrant scent of buchu or simply listen to the exquisite silence that surrounds you.
Hop aboard the Lady Stanford river boat for a iconic and tranquil river cruise that winds its way gently along the picturesque Klein River, toward the Hermanus lagoon. Spend time on the open upper and lower decks of this modern eco-friendly river boat with its quiet, four-stroke boat engines, as you watch a kaleidoscope of natural colour go by.
No expense has been spared when it comes to comfort and luxury on board this vessel that most definitely stands out from the rest. A qualified skipper and experienced interactive guide, who intimately knows the river and all it has to offer, will ensure this journey is a memorable one. The Klein River features more than a hundred bird species which include majestic fish eagles, a flamboyance of pink flamingos and the ever spectacular, blue crane. Keep an eye out for otters, bontebok and horses grazing on the fertile river banks, as you make your way toward the lagoon. Lady Stanford runs daily trips for individual passengers as well as being available exclusively for private functions. The boat can comfortably accommodate 26 passengers.
The River Cruise is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.
Take a tour with heart as you discover how the entire Grootbos experience has been designed around benefitting the community and environment around you. Learn and connect as you witness how our various projects are changing lives and conserving this protected wilderness.
What is progressive tourism? It’s a term we coined to explain a new way of living that is at the heart of the entire Grootbos experience. It’s about every action we take benefitting someone else or having a positive impact on the environment.
From the freshly grown tomatoes you eat at lunch, to the recycled candles in your room, to the earrings you buy at the gift shop – we’re constantly seeking out new ways to create sustainable livelihoods for the people who call this unique area home.
This is the ultimate ride from Grootbos Nature Reserve down the mountain to the top of the Sand Dunes. The trail to the dunes is special, running on a narrow sandy horse trail through the Fynbos.
When reaching the dunes we will make our way up and across to reach a fantastic downhill section where we will pick up speed before reaching the top of our first vertical dune face. After a briefing on how to ride down the dune we down the face but for those just wanting an easy ride you can go around the side where it is an easy slope. The dune face may feel impossible and dangerous to do but the ride is in fact very controlled and the sand will slow the bike down.
What your mind tells you is impossible will in fact be very enjoyable and easy. I will be at the bottom of the dunes videoing your challenges so remember to smile. I will also teach you how to do slalom like a skiier on a snow ski slope. This is excellent fun on a bike and not too difficult to achieve. After the dunes we will pick up a 4x4 trail down to the beach. From there we will head back up to the car park but for those who are already tired I can bring the 4x4 down to the rocks so you do not have to ride up.
Fat Biking is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.
Visit the home of the recently launched Grootbos Florilegium. The Hannarie Wenhold Botanical Art Gallery built on Grootbos Nature Reserve is an innovative space dedicated to the Florilegium’s fine botanical artworks and is a celebration of the hard work of all involved over the last five years.
The Grootbos Florilegium is the first contemporary African florilegium. Its intention is to celebrate and honor the Cape fynbos and the Cape Floral Kingdom in the southern Overberg, as a valuable botanical heritage of South Africa and as a record of the many rare, endemic and endangered plants of the region. The Florilegium is a global collaboration, featuring carefully selected botanical artists. 35 celebrated artists from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Reunion and the United Kingdom have lent their talent and expertise to the collaboration. A further 9 come from countries including the Netherlands, Brazil, the USA, Japan, Germany, South Korea and Italy.
The Grootbos Florilegium is representing nothing less than the best of the international botanical arts community.
Red Indigo at Forest Lodge
Experience the finest contemporary cuisine in a world-class setting surrounded by exquisite natural beauty. Take in the magnificent panoramic views of Walker Bay and the mountainous planes of pristine fynbos while friendly staff tend to your every culinary desire. And the best part... it's all included in your board.
Savour delectable dishes prepared with organic ingredients produced by our very own Growing the Future food production and social upliftment project.
Delight in the seafood bounty of Walker Bay, enjoy extra-matured beef fillet grilled to perfection and taste award winning wines from local cellars that reflect the essence of the landscape and its people.
Cape Grace, A Fairmont Managed Hotel | Cape Town
A graceful icon, crafting bespoke journeys into the essence of the Cape.
Welcome Home. Standing at the heart of the V&A Waterfront is a figure that evokes familiarity, comfort, and a sense of adventure – Cape Grace is a timeless presence. With rooms gazing out onto the harbour, marina, or the majestic silhouette of Table Mountain, this grand hotel feels as if it has always been part of the landscape. Every visit, even the first, truly feels like a homecoming. As you bid farewell, all those moments turned into memories linger in your heart, a gentle reminder that no matter where life takes you, Cape Grace will always welcome you back home.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
5 Star
Hotel
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, French, German, Portuguese, Xhosa, Zulu
No. Rooms: 114
Special Interests: Adventure, Beach / Coastal, Birding, Cycling, Fishing, Flora, Golf, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Sports, Watersports, Wine
With views of the working harbour, these rooms offer elegant furnishing, and timeless contemporary decor complimented by luxurious linen. French doors, dressing area, and lavish en-suite marbled bathroom. Twin beds and interleading rooms are available on request.
Accommodates two adults and one additional child (5 years or younger) on an extra toddler bed.
With breathtaking views of the iconic mountain and tranquil yacht marina, these rooms offer elegant furnishing and timeless decor. French doors with ample room space and a dressing area.
Interleading rooms and twin beds are available on request. Accommodates two adults and one child (5 years or younger) on an extra toddler bed.
Glorious views of the iconic mountain, seamlessly equipped to cater to all your needs
These rooms offer elegant furnishing and timeless décor framed by glorious views of the iconic mountain and tranquil yacht marina.
Dressing area, roll in shower and separate tub both with grab bars, step out balcony.
Seamlessly equipped to cater to all your needs:
Ramp access to the balcony and extra room for wheelchair accessibility.
Rail assistance around the bath and water closet.
Shower and bath seat, available on request.
Panic button available for emergencies.
With a generous step-out balcony from where to enjoy the sights and sounds of either the working harbour or mountain and yacht marina, the abundant size and walk in closet makes this room ideal for couples or young families alike.
Accommodates two adults and one child (12 years or younger) on an extra bed.
Views from the balcony of either Cape Town’s working harbour or Table Mountain and the yacht marina. Situated on the top floor, each room is designed to feel like a private retreat – perfect for those looking to escape from it all.
Enjoy the privacy of the top floor with views of either the working harbour or yacht marina and Table Mountain. Providing seclusion and serenity with large living and terrace space, to soak up all that Cape Town has to offer.
Exquisitely detailed, with views of either the working harbour or mountain and marina. The timeless design incapsulates the separate lounge and dining area. Luxurious linen and lavish marbled bathroom complete this stylish room.
Accommodates two adults and one additional child (12 years or younger) on an extra bed.
Elegant and timeless decor, separate lounge and dining area. Generously sized rooms, including a balcony overlooking either the yacht marina or Cape Town’s working harbour – a blissful setting for solo travellers and couples alike.
Accommodates two adults and one additional child (12 years or younger) on an extra bed.
Extended balcony, luxurious home comforts, elegant lounge, and dining area make the collective spaces ideal for families or friends. Two private en-suite bedrooms with rich furnishings, ensure an indulgent stay.
Accommodates four adults and up to one additional child (12 years or younger) on an extra bed.
Enjoy time away with family or friends in this expansive suite. Three en-suite bedrooms, separate kitchen, stylish dining room, and balcony overlooking the working Harbour and V&A Waterfront ideal for socialising in comfort and style.
Accommodates six adults and up two additional children (12 years or younger) on extra beds. *
The classic contemporary space encourages total relaxation. One bedroom, private terrace and Jacuzzi, ideal for couples or those wishing to indulge in ultimate seclusion. Views of the working harbour or yacht marina and mountain.
The spectacular Two Bedroom suite offers a stylish lounge, dining area with private bar and butlers pantry, leading to an expansive terrace with sweeping views of Cape Town. A space curated to offer pure tranquillity and escape.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Disability Services, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Library, Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath, Clothes Press, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Heater, Iron / Ironing Board, Mini Bar, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television
Services
ATM, Babysitting Service, Chauffer Service, Credit Card, Foreign Exchange, Room Service, Room Service (24 hours), Travel Desk
In the nature of its namesake, Heirloom finds its values in preserving the rich heritage of culinary tradition, nurturing it with care and dedication to create enduring experiences that echo through time.
At Heirloom, we celebrate the unhurried spirit and bountiful terroir of South Africa through the rhythm of each passing season. Guided by the culinary expertise of Chef Gregory Czarnecki, renowned for his mastery of flavours, our restaurant stands as a living legacy where tradition finds fresh expression, creativity flourishes, and stories are told through taste, texture, and exceptional technique.
Our menus spotlight the finest and purest seasonal ingredients, locally sourced from cherished partners. Our cuisine is a symphony of simplicity and refinement, a treasure to be passed down through generations. Each dish artfully plated and paired with exquisite wines hailing from our celebrated wine regions.
Within our newly refreshed walls, overlooking captivating views of the V&A Waterfront marina and iconic Table Mountain, we extend a warm invitation, enveloping you in an ambiance of refined charm. Discover the inviting comfort, the grandeur of our bar taking centre stage, and a private dining room for more intimate moments.
Committed to excellence and attentive service, dining at Heirloom promises an unforgettable journey, a cherished memory to revisit – time and again.
Step into our LibraryLounge; a cosy retreat.
For those who appreciate the combination of literary charm, mixology mastery, and the company of like-minded individuals.
Whether you seek solace with a compelling book, engaging conversation, or joining us for Afternoon Tea, our Library Lounge serves a sanctuary for both the connoisseur and the curious.
A beloved rendezvous for Capetonians and a go-to for dishes, steeped in tradition, yet transformed through whimsy and skill.
Poised on the water’s edge of the V&A Waterfront yacht marina, Bascule Bar & Lounge is renowned for its extensive whisky collection, exclusive wine cellar and expertly crafted cocktails.
Bascule Bar & Lounge is set to reopen after an exciting refashioning in May 2024.
TSWALU The Motse | Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve
The Motse is the perfect camp, drawing guests in with its sociable atmosphere and generous-hearted service, organic-luxe design and nurturing, earthy spaces. Backed by the Korannaberg foothills, the Motse is in the west of the reserve, where the mountains give way to grassy plains and red dunes dotted with pans. Heading out to explore the area is made easy with a private vehicle, and the undivided attention of a guide and tracker to arrange game drives, nature walks, horse riding, meerkat encounters, hands-on conservation, or an introduction to one of the many research projects supported by the Tswalu Foundation. Between activities, the camp’s nine well-spaced legae - a Setswana word meaning ‘home’ - are private sanctuaries to retreat to, offering every imaginable creature comfort. Dining is a highlight, from a picnic breakfast and poolside lunch to a boma barbecue, a lantern-lit dune dinner, or the provenance-led culinary journey which unfolds at Restaurant Klein JAN on one special night.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Fast Facts
5 Star
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, French, German
No. Rooms: 9
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
A ‘village’ of just nine houses (three of which feature a second bedroom for children), The Motse captures the soul of the Kalahari in its design and materials. Private spaces flow effortlessly into waterhole views and beyond to the savannah.
The architecture of The Motse aligns beautifully with Nature to create moments of warmth and coolness, seclusion and shared memories. Bedrooms are illuminated by the sun rising over the ridge behind The Motse, and indigenous trees create pools of shadow. Each space at The Motse invites you in, just as Tswalu beckons you to explore and investigate your surroundings.
Luxury is a given when you are on safari at Tswalu. At The Motse, just 18 adults are accommodated in nine individual legae (suites) made from desert sand, rock and thatch, with every comfort imaginable – open fireplaces, outdoor showers, private sun decks, spacious living areas, separate dressing and study areas and wireless internet.
We have three family legae (suites) which have 2 en-suite bedrooms separated by a large lounge and deck.
At the main lodge elevated decks around the freeform pool, allow panoramic views of the surrounding Kalahari landscapes, and a waterhole popular with wildlife. A spacious lounge and dining area, library, spa, fully-equipped gym, impressive wine cellar and traditional boma complete the luxury facilities.
Motse legae
The Motse camp is a secluded ‘village’ of nine “legae” (the Tswana word for ‘dwellings’) including three family legae, accessed from the main building along wooden walkways which wind through the quiver trees and camel thorns. They are situated to ensure that each one is private and secluded and built using natural materials from the area.
Each thatched legae has an open viewing deck and starbed which look across the savannah to a waterhole which attracts a variety of wildlife. The luxury accommodation meets the highest standards of aesthetics and design but is, at the same time, unpretentious with a focus on simplicity and comfort. This is in keeping with Tswalu’s focus on land restoration and conservation which is honest, authentic and inspirational.
The Motse evokes a mood of intimacy, quiet, and authenticity, a home from home atmosphere. Interiors are cool and spacious with king-size beds swathed in romantic mosquito nets and orientated to maximise the views through sliding glass doors. Each room has a fireplace and a separate dressing area with ample cupboard space. The bathrooms have been created with private gardens, luxurious bathtubs and both indoor and outdoor showers.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Restaurant, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Sala, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Services
Babysitting Service, Room Service
With your own dedicated guide and vehicle, you can experience Tswalu exactly the way you want to. There are no fixed schedules or time limits at special sightings – during your stay, the dunes and grasslands are yours to explore the way you want to, and each wildlife encounter can unfold at its own pace.
Just like the sands of the Kalahari, we understand that your priorities can shift during your time at Tswalu. That’s why we’ll never try and shoehorn your experience into a fixed schedule.
Tswalu is unquestionably one of the best places in southern Africa to see cheetah in the wild – the vast open spaces and antelope herds of the Kalahari readily lend themselves to high-speed pursuits. Visiting Tswalu also gives you front-row seats for sightings of species that prove elusive elsewhere, from aardvark and pangolin to Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra.
Tswalu’s ecotourism ventures have a notably low ecological impact while also contributing significantly to the sustainability of the reserve and its achievement of its conservation and community upliftment goals. By remaining honest to our guiding principles, we can deliver a safari experience of startling authenticity.
Much of Tswalu’s beauty can be found in the smaller details: the ripples left by the wind on the crest a sand dune, a yellow flower opening to face the sun, or the tracks of a porcupine digging for roots. Walking at Tswalu gives you the opportunity to see these and other signs of the abundance of the southern Kalahari, as well as following the tracks of larger species.
Another exciting game viewing option at Tswalu is a horseback ride
Horseback safaris allow guests to explore the dunes and savannahs on our well-schooled and well-mannered horses, which are suitable for all ages and all levels of experience.
There is no better way to get close to nature and the wildlife. On a horse safari in at Tswalu, you become part of the landscape and many of the animals react differently to your presence. No-one who experiences this kind of closeness with wildlife ever forgets it.
Our equestrian guides are well trained in the Kalahari ecology, and will lead you on a true safari where you can ride alongside antelope, buffalo, zebra and giraffe, or watch them from a distance without detection.
Children are welcome on horseback safaris. Both trail and English saddles are available and every piece of necessary equipment is provided, in every imaginable size.
Children are welcome at Tswalu and the reserve is well equipped to cater for them. Tswalu believes that they too can be part of the conservation vision.
The youngsters will be introduced to the Junior Ranger programme and given a backpack with guides and tools to help them learn about the Kalahari. During their stay they will make their own bow and arrow for archery, learn how to identify spoor, and track game on foot.
In between game walks and drives there are activities at The Motse specially designed to occupy the kids while mom and dad relax. Tswalu’s stables will create a special “pony camp” for any child who shares their passion for horses. There is no malaria in this part of the Kalahari and the pool is a big attraction. They can chat to the rangers, decorate cup cakes and even cook their own bush dinner in the special children’s boma. A separate children’s menu caters for their individual tastes.
Babysitters can be arranged for younger children if parents want time alone.
The Spa and Gym at The Motse provide both relaxation and stimulation for body and mind, with inspiration coming from the savannah views and the use of organic materials both in the construction of this space, and in the spa treatments.
Join a group of habituated meerkats as they emerge from their burrows and warm themselves in the rising sun or meet up with them as they return home at the end of the day and groom and play at dusk.
Their gregarious nature and amusing antics (think early morning sunbathing and playing chicken with scorpions) have made meerkats extremely popular as subjects of wildlife documentaries. Our two habituated colonies have accepted the presence of humans without letting it disrupt the important business of grooming and foraging.
Meerkats are just one of the smaller predators which abound at Tswalu: aardwolf, African wild cat and caracal are also frequently seen.
Join your guide in trying to puzzle out the hidden meanings in millennia-old rock engravings of animals, birds and abstract shapes. Today, no one knows whether they were created as memories, prayers or maps, but their beauty and mystery endure.
Every moment of every meal at Tswalu reflects the culinary heritage of South Africa and is carefully designed to be as inclusive as possible. Sustainability is key: we forage for Kalahari ingredients and work with local suppliers who share our low-impact ethos.
We believe that luxury is found in contextual, relevant flavours rather than wasteful over-abundance. Our food offering helps tell the story of Tswalu – it’s inspired by and captures the essence of the Kalahari.
As well as being an incredible community of flora and fauna, Tswalu is also an extended human family of people from the Kalahari and beyond. We find strength in our diversity, and because we all share the same vision for the future of Tswalu, we can combine our energies and passion to make Tswalu’s vision a reality.
The Tswalu community consists of our staff members and their families, researchers, visiting doctors that support the healthcare centre, visiting artists in residence, and each of our guests, alongside a wider community of neighbours, conservationists and everyone who cares about the restoration of the Kalahari.
The Tswalu Foundation exists primarily to support ecological research at Tswalu. Through accumulating a growing body of quality output on the fauna, flora and the unique habitat of the southern Kalahari we have been able to make informed conservation management decisions to better support our shared vision.
This information has been made freely available to our neighbours and other interested parties so that, as we seek to add to our shared understanding of this rich and diverse landscape, they too can care for their land in the best long-term interests of the wildlife and people of the Kalahari.
During your stay at Tswalu, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with researchers studying both iconic and more obscure species and witness scientific conservation in progress.
Naledi, which means ‘star’ in the local Tswana language, is Tswalu’s back-to-nature star bed experience in the Korannaberg mountains. Elevated above a valley with wraparound views, Naledi is for the true adventurer who yearns to sleep beneath the southern Kalahari’s brilliant blanket of stars in safety and seclusion. Spending a night in a star bed, with nothing between you and the night sky, has become increasingly sought after as travellers search for authentic, unfiltered experiences immersed in nature. Naledi has purposely been kept very simple so as not to detract from its private and remote setting in the southern reaches of the reserve. Sleeping in the open, under the stars, is as old as time.
A balmy summer night is a perfect time to sleep under the stars in the middle of the Kalahari. The Malori is Tswalu’s under canvas experience with comfortable beds, an open-air bathroom and a spacious deck area for dining, dreaming and stargazing.
Whether reserved for romance or for family bonding time, a Malori sleep-out is about tuning out so that you can soak up the solitude, tune into the silence and count shooting stars. With comfortable beds, an open-air bathroom and a spacious deck area for dining, dreaming and stargazing, the tent is perfect for two but spacious enough to invite the family. The Malori sleep-out is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences you will never forget.
A night at Malori needs to be booked in advance, carries an additional cost, and is offered subject to availability and prevailing weather conditions.
From a late breakfast at the pool, a picnic in the dunes, a feast in the boma, or sundowners and snacks on your private deck... guests will delight in the delicious gourmet meals prepared by Executive Chef Marnus Scholly.
Every moment of every meal at Tswalu reflects the culinary heritage of South Africa and is carefully designed to be as inclusive as possible. Sustainability is key: we forage for Kalahari ingredients and work with local suppliers who share our low-impact ethos.
We believe that luxury is found in contextual, relevant flavours rather than wasteful over-abundance. Our food offering helps tell the story of Tswalu – it’s inspired by and captures the essence of the Kalahari.
Working in partnership with Michelin-starred South African chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, our chefs look to reinterpret the flavours they find around them and create unique taste touchpoints at every turn. Our choice of ingredients is only half the story; the context from which they come and in which they are served completes the picture.
Tswalu offers a number of dining options for guests who can dine indoors or out, in the dining room or at the pool deck, and can enjoy their meals at times that suit them.
Tswalu's wine list has been carefully selected from the best South African wines available and guests will enjoy the food and wine pairing menus.
All guests now have the once in a lifetime opportunity to experience Restaurant Klein JAN.
The opening of Klein JAN restaurant at Tswalu is the culmination of nearly three years of research by South African-born chef, Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, into the culinary traditions and ingredients of the cultures and communities that call the Kalahari home. Creating Klein JAN has been Jan Hendrik’s great homecoming project.
His vision? To tell the stories of the Northern Cape region on every plate - stories rooted in the ancient wisdom of this remote, off-the-radar place of extremes and dramatic, vast landscapes. It is a region of South Africa where life is determined or measured by the absence or presence of rain, where resources in a year of plenty are carefully stored or preserved for leaner times.
Jan Hendrik felt an instant connection to the vastness of the Kalahari, and knew that the time had come to elevate the unsung heroes of the Northern Cape and their superior produce and products to their rightful place. Opening Klein JAN at Tswalu, rather than in South Africa’s foodie capital of Cape Town, added authenticity and sustainability clout to the venture, echoing the importance of local expression, provenance and procurement that Jan and his team have nurtured at Restaurant JAN in Nice, France, since it opened in 2013