There are many natural wonders in the world, but only a few offer such awesome diversity as the pristine De Hoop Nature and Marine Reserve, one of the largest natural areas managed by CapeNature.
The sea, deserted beaches, a Ramsar-listed vlei, wide open spaces, coastal fynbos, diverse animal and bird life (including the endangered Cape vulture) and the very best in whale watching. De Hoop offers unique outdoor experiences like no other.
Also read: The De Hoop Camino: A luxury coastal trail
But if we thought De Hoop couldn’t get any better, we would be terribly mistaken. It has been announced that the much-anticipated launch of the ‘De Hoop Trail – Vlei to Whales’ has arrived.
The new trail promises an unforgettable walking experience here in the ‘Jewel of the Cape’, providing walkers with yet another opportunity to connect with nature like never before, according to owner of The De Hoop Collection, William Stephens.
Experience the wonder that is De Hoop Nature Reserve first-hand with a trail experience that has exploration and comfort at its heart.
Here’s what you can expect
A fully-catered and guided experience comprising four days, three nights and approximately 38km of walking as you uncover the natural and cultural history of the reserve. En-route, you’ll also discover a wealth of marine, bird, animal and rare plant species with a qualified nature/marine guide.
The primary accommodation option for the fully-catered and guided ‘Vlei to Whale’ experience is De Hoop Collection’s newest addition to its already wide range of accommodation offerings: De Mond Villa.
De Mond Villa is a newly restored and refurbished villa right on the edge of the Ramsar-listed vlei, creating an exclusive off-the-grid blend of authenticity, luxury and comfort. The five ensuite-bedroomed villa offers Wi-Fi, a private outside area with braai facilities and a swimming pool, as well as some of the most spectacular vistas of the surroundings.
Also read: Wildlife, a villa and De Hoop Nature Reserve – a tranquil escape awaits
Being right on the edge of the vlei means spectacular birdlife awaits, plus possible sightings of wild bush pigs, otters, rock dassies, herds of Elan and even some leopard tracks if you look close enough.
Should the De Mond Villa be booked out already, the De Hoop Collection’s historic Melkkamer Homestead, on the opposite side of the vlei and a 40-minute drive from the central Opstal area, is offered as an alternative (depending on availability, of course).
Cape {town} Etc discount: Embark on an ideal coastal escape with a one-night stay for two people at Outbaai Hotel, Golf & Spa in Herold’s Bay for R1 299 (valued at R4 000). Get it here.
Details:
Rate: R12 900 (valid for 2023), terms and conditions apply.
- A fully-catered, guided, three-night/four-day experience
- De Hoop Nature Reserve is approximately a three-hour drive from Cape Town or George
- A minimum of four guests in required (who should be reasonably fit to enjoy the experience)
- Not suitable for children under the age of 12.
Includes:
- Three nights’ accommodation at De Mond Villa or Melkkamer Homestead
- All meals and snacks – breakfast, brunches, lunches, picnic, snacks and dinners
- Local house wines, spirits, beers and soft drinks
- Road transfers to and from De Mond Villa and within De Hoop
Excludes:
- Transfers to and from De Hoop Nature Reserve
- CapeNature Gate entrance and Conservation Fee (R40 per person) paif on arrival at the gate
- Fully comprehensive travel insurance
- Gratuities to the lodge staff and guides
- Premium drinks not on the ‘house’ list
Bookings:
- Website: dehoopcollection.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 021 422 4522
Guests also have access to a host of amenities, including De Hoop Collection’s warm and cosy Fig Tree Restaurant, located in an old sheep shearing shed that dates back to the 1800s; William’s Wine Cellar, located in an old, converted silo; a tennis court; two swimming pools and boules.
This pristine World Heritage Nature Reserve is an ideal destination for hikers, walkers, cyclists and families with guided nature drives, bird and marine walks, mountain biking trails, bike rentals, eco boat trips on the vlei, guided ‘vulture experience’ visits to the colony of almost 200 vultures in the Potberg Mountain, whale watching and De Hoop Collection’s wide range of accommodation options designed to suit all budgets.
Explore Cape Town and its surroundings with these incredible deals on cars for under 100k. Find car listings here.
Also read:
Nature’s Playground: The Western Cape’s national parks and reserves
Picture: Supplied