x
Sat, 26/07/2025, 07H00 - 20H00
Merrell Whale of Trail 2025 promises flowing footpaths through spectacular mountain fynbos that give way to technical rocky coastline ridges, calf-killing sandy beaches and undulating coastal paths.
The entire route is in the De Hoop Nature Reserve, so although you go for the whales, expect to see eland, bontebok, zebra, vultures, dolphins and even signs of leopards, caracal, otters and turtles. It’s magic.
Merrell Whale of Trail 2025 is held at De Hoop Nature Reserve, home to the De Hoop Collection.
De Hoop Collection has a wide range of accommodation, from campsites, affordable rondawels and self-catering chalets to more luxurious cottages and upmarket lodges, complemented by the outstanding Fig Tree Restaurant.
Remember that your race entry includes three-course dinners on Friday and Saturday, and a freshly cooked lunch when you finish your race on Saturday, prepared on site by external caterers.
Aside from its delightful accommodation, De Hoop Nature Reserve has much to offer, including guided nature, bird and marine walks, mountain biking trails and bike rentals, eco boat trips on the Ramsar vlei, and unlimited whale watching at the beach.
Important - Bookings
All accommodation has been block booked for the race, so if you try to book online, it will say ”None Available For Those Dates”.
Please check the De Hoop Collection website for options and contact them directly at:
res@dehoopcollection.co.za
021 422 4522
Read more about the De Hoop Collection here.
On Merrell Whale of Trail’s race day in August 2018, an official aerial survey counted 1,114 southern right whales in the De Hoop Marine Reserve.
That means even on its busiest day, whales outnumber spectators by 4.5:1, making the trail in De Hoop the best land-based whale watching spot on the planet!
