Getting African Penguin Back To De Hoop!
A bold and wonderful initiative to restore the area's ecology and lure African penguins back to our coast!
We hope you’re having a gorgeous Spring! Here’s to warmer, longer days with more time to squeeze in the best of De Hoop. With so much to do, we suggest you spend at least two nights out at the reserve to really soak up the experience of this nature and marine escape! And just in case you’re wondering, here are our Top 5 Spring Activities (please book at reception for the guided options):
1. Spot Whales from the Beach
De Hoop is enjoying a record-breaking number of whale sightings off the coast of Nature and Marine Reserve this year. Book a picnic basket and head down to Koppie Alleen for some truly world-class land based whale watching.
2. Mountain Bike around the Reserve
Explore the beauty of De Hoop on two wheels. Opt for a trail, or just ride around the Opstal area and enjoy the freedom of the wind in your hair and the sights of nature. With no large predators, De Hoop Nature Reserve is the ideal space to get close to game and nature without fences. For those who would prefer a guided experience, kindly book at reception.
3. Get Twitchin’
Remember to pack your favourite bird book and head off for a walk exploring the feathered friends who call De Hoop home, or sign up for a Guided Bird Walk and soak up the knowledge from our trained and informative guides.
From renowned Conservation Photographer, Peter Chadwick.
- Specials: Black Harrier, Cape Vulture, African Black Oystercatcher, Denham’s Bustard, Blue Crane, Cape Eagle-Owl, Southern Tchagra, Knysna Woodpecker, Agulhas Long-billed Lark, Orange-breasted Sunbird
- Recommended Viewing Points: Koppie Alleen, The Opstal, The Vlei Trail & The Klipspringer Trail at Potberg Farmlands on the drive into the reserve.
4. Cruise into the Season
Enjoy an eco boat cruise on the Vlei (a protected RAMSAR site) and the tranquillity offered by this 19km stretch of water. Home to a plethora of bird life, it is another Twitcher Hot Spot.
“The vlei at De Hoop Nature Reserve near Bredasdorp is one of the best birding sites close to Cape Town - 259 different bird types represent 70% of the 369 species known in the South-Western Cape, including rare and threatened species.” - SAvenues
5. Just Relax
Winter has a way of wreaking havoc on our skin, why not rejuvenate yours at the De Hoop Spa? From facials to massages, you’ll be pampered to perfection with swoon-worthy ELEMIS products.
