Grootvaderbosch nature reserve

Grootvadersbosch, originally known as Melkhoutskraal is not very well known, It is 250 hectares of  Afrotemperate Indigenous forest. The name meaning “big father “ is for Roelof Oelofse who owned the land in 1723. However, it has only been a reserve since 1986. In 2004 it was declared as a World Heritage site. Grootvaderbosch is an excellent birding destination with more than 196 bird species. Hiking, day walks, and cycling are popular in the cool dappled shade of the forests. The indigenous trees are mostly stinkwood, yellowwood, red alder, and ironwood. Doing these trails one can cool off in the tea-colored river water shaded by ancient trees. Other rare sightings could include the Forest Emperor butterfly and a subspecies of the very rare Ghost frog.

Accommodation is available. There are some newly refurbished cabins and well-equipped campsites.

Grootvaderbosch loop hike

33 59 08.4 S 20 49 24.7 E

reservation.alert@capenature.co.za