A Fantasy Forest cast by nature's magic wand
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Hiking in Grootbos Private Nature Reserve literally means losing oneself in a big fantasy forest, where nature's magic and wonders lie waiting at every turn in a wilderness of exquisite fynbos flowers and ancient Milkwood trees.
The name Grootbos means "Big Forest" and was derived from the dense Milkwood thickets and indigenous flowering fynbos that clad the Duynefontein Mountains in an ever-changing tapestry of brilliant colours and wildlife. Every pathway snaking through hills and valleys reveals a different landscape and breathtaking views on the entire Gansbaai coastline with its abundant sea life. The area is world-renowned for being home to the Marine Big Five - sharks, whales, dolphins, penguins and seals. Most of these species can be seen on any given day from the various vantage points in Grootbos, but spotting a great white shark or pods of Southern Right Whales breaching and blowing in close proximity is a mesmerizing thrill.
Various trails for guided or self-guided hikes run through fields of lush green foliage dotted with splashes of wild flowering malvas and pink and red ericas. To watch exquisite endemic birds such as the Cape Sugarbird, Black Harrier and Jackal Buzzard majestically wing over plant and prey is a sight to behold.
Grootbos is home to more than 750 rare fynbos species and 120 bird species. More are being discovered all the time. Some 21 mammal and 21 reptile species have thus far also been recorded on the 2 500 hectare reserve.
It's a magic world where the ever-changing colours, aromas and nuances of sea, sky and foliage constantly transform the landscape into a wonderland of new discoveries.
The gnarled trunks of the ancient Milkwood trees create an awe-inspiring ambience. Some of them are estimated to be over 800 years of age and boast a canopy spanning of more than 15 M. Come explore this untouched Eden on foot, horseback or by 4x4 drive. Our specialised guides will take you on a journey through a never-never land of unsurpassed beauty that will blow your mind!
