Grootbos Secret Season Travel Diary

Winter might be cold and grey at times, but that is no reason to hibernate and hide from the world. It can, in fact, be the best time to explore and travel! Places are less busy and not overrun with people; there is more chance of getting bookings, as well as cheaper rates. Winter in the Cape is fast becoming known as the “Secret Season.” A recent trip found Grant and I exploring the Grootbos Secret Season, which runs from May to July.

Grootbos Secret Season

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is one of my favourite places to visit. Located approximately 13km outside of Gansbaai, the drive from Cape Town takes about 2½ hours, traffic dependant. The setting could not be more picturesque, with breathtaking views of Walker Bay.

We have stayed at Grootbos before, as a family, so I was keen to experience it as a couple. The Reserve is perfect for a family getaway but equally fantastic as a romantic hideaway.

As well as luxurious Five Star accommodation, the Lodges offers guests a wide range of land-based experiences. The Grootbos Secret Season was the perfect opportunity for us to enjoy a few of these unique adventures.

Forest Lodge

Before I dive into the wonderful experiences, you can expect during Grootbos Secret Season, a bit more about the Lodge. On our previous family trip, we stayed at the Garden Lodge, which is more family orientated. Being a “Romantic Getaway” this time around, Grant and I stayed at the Forest Lodge.

The main building of the lodge sits harmoniously in its surroundings, with stunning views from every angle of the property. Contemporary decor, fresh flowers, muted tones and clean lines further enhance the aesthetic appeal of the space. An open plan design allows a natural flow from the restaurant and bar area, through to the lounge.

The expansive wooden deck overlooks the pool and is the perfect spot for sundowners. Sunsets at the Lodge are rather spectacular!

Forest Lodge offers accommodation in 16 luxury suites, dotted in secluded locations amongst the Milkwood Trees. Each suite has a large ensuite bathroom, wood burning fireplace, and a private deck.

If romance is what you are after, look no further. I can’t think of anything better than bubbly on the deck watching the sunset or snuggling next to a crackling fire after dinner. Perfection!

Something I feel that deserves special mention is the food and wine at Grootbos. Each meal we experienced was fantastic and some of the best food I have tasted in a long time. We also discovered a fabulous new Pinot Noir from Seven Springs Vineyard in the Hemel en Aarde.

A few of the savoury dishes I thought were particularly special are the Seafood Curry, the Open Beef Burger with Grilled Camembert, Onion Relish and Homemade Fries, and lastly the 5 Spice Seared Duck Breast. As far as desserts go the Espresso Creme Brulee and the Honey Ice Cream, were sublime.

The Secret Season

In winter the Lodge is not as busy as during peak season, giving guests ample opportunity to enjoy the fantastic array of activities on offer at Grootbos. Below I have listed a few of the highlights we experienced during our stay. Our guide for our stay, Tiaan, was incredibly enthusiastic and knowledgeable, making our trip even more memorable.

Chef’s Cooking Demo

We, or rather should I say, Grant, learned how to make Gnocchi. He is so much better at making dough than I am, so I observed and took photographs! We have always steered clear of making Gnocchi because it seemed like too much effort but we were pleasantly surprised at how simple it was. The Chef’s Cooking Demo was fantastic, and it was great to meet the folk who prepare all the scrumptious food we would be enjoying.

Wine Paired Dinner

Being a wine and food lover, this type of experience is right up my alley. The six-course, Wine Paired Tasting Menu, is served in the underground cellar and hosted by their resident Sommelier or in our case their consulting sommelier. The setting is so romantic and lends itself well to an intimate dinner experience of this nature. I loved every minute of the dinner; the food was outstanding and the wine equally as delicious.

Mussel Foraging

We set out early one morning after breakfast, for the ancient coastal caves, hidden in the beautiful Walker Bay. Tiaan and Grant decided to brave the massive waves and clamber down the rocks to forage for mussels. I found the perfect spot to perch and take photographs of the action.

4 x 4 Fynbos Safari

After mussel foraging, our next adventure was a 4 x 4 Fynbos Safari. The primary objective of the safari is to experience the incredible beauty of the Cape Flora, and Fauna found on the Reserve. Of particular interest are the unique pink blossoms of the Erica Irregularis, found only in this area.

Honey Harvesting

We were greeted by Johann, the head beekeeper and briefed on what to expect when we arrived at the Grootbos hives. Once we were all suited up and told what not to do, we set out in search of honey to harvest. Having hundreds of bees buzzing around you is not for the faint-hearted, and it made taking photographs extremely tricky! Unfortunately, the bees were a bit agitated, so we were not able to harvest honey from the hives, but this did not detract from the exhilarating experience. I think we all came away from this adventure with a new found respect for beekeepers! Side note – we did not leave empty-handed, and the honey is delicious.

Marine Safari

Our last adventure before heading home was a Marine Safari. There was the possibility of spotting the Marine Big 5 in Walker Bay. The swells were massive, and I, unfortunately, battled with seasickness – I lost, it was not my finest hour. The expedition, however, was successful as we did manage to see Whales, Cape Fur Seals, African Penguin, as well as two Orcas.

Progressive Tourism

As well as being a five-star haven of luxury and tranquillity, Grootbos strives to practice Progressive Tourism. The objective of Progressive Tourism is to put back into the community and to have a positive impact on the environment. They do a great job of uplifting the community via skills-based projects and youth education and training which they run through the Grootbos Foundation.

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. ~ Grootbos

The Grootbos Experience

Both Grant and I loved every minute of our Secret Season experience and can highly recommend it! Staying at Grootbos is one of those magical experiences that will nourish your soul, leaving you feeling invigorated, well-rested and more than likely a few kilos heavier. {Featured above: A keepsake from our trip – a stunning handmade leather luggage tag, from Alex & Marla.}

Rates and Details

Rates at Grootbos are full-board and also include many of the reserve activities. For more information on pricing, please visit the Grootbos Website.

Disclosure

We enjoyed our stay, meals, and activities as guests of Grootbos. Please note that all information provided above was deemed correct at time of publishing but is subject to change at the establishment’s discretion.