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Grootbos
Hermanus

Authentic African warmth is found at this collection of luxury lodges nestled in the heart of a 2,500-hectare private nature reserve. Artfully designed within ancient Milkwood forests and overlooking the whale-watching havens of Walker Bay and Hermanus, Grootbos is an idyllic choice and an eco-paradise. It also has the accolade of being one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World.

The property has two sets of suites, Garden Lodge and Forest Lodge. Garden Lodge caters for guests with children under 12 and Forest for +12 years. This means that the staff and activities on offer can be appropriately tailored to their audience. Both Lodges have their own restaurants, swimming pools and communal areas. Grootbos is a fantastic option for a post-big game safari chill out, or a more active element to a holiday in the Cape. The botanical safaris are what make Grootbos so special. Situated in the fynbos, the Cape’s Floral Kingdom which is so bio-diverse with over 9,000 recorded species, the majority of them endemic, it houses more diversity than the Amazon Rainforest. The highly experienced guides will talk you through the landscape and make sure to look out for the Erica Irregularus flowers. In season, they wash the entire reserve with a pink hue. Morning horse-back riding is highly recommended (children will love the stables) and the nature walks are filled with magical tales woven by the guides. Due to its location inland from Walker Bay, Grootbos also offers whale watching activities from June – November and can arrange scenic boating trips to get up close to the Marine ‘Big’ 5: penguins, whales, great white sharks, seals and dolphins.

Grootbos is more than a luxury eco-lodge, it is a centre for botanists and is heavily involved in protecting the local environment. The staff there are well informed about the wonders of the fynbos and are on hand to educate, inform and energise guests about the floral kingdom. The views from the lodges over the forests down to sand dunes and on to Walker Bay are astounding – maximised by the floor to ceiling glass doors in the lounge and restaurant. You will want to don your walking boots and head out into the wild (without the fear of a lioness or bull elephant straying into your path) and revel in the fresh air.

The lodges, 27 suites and exclusive villa combine contemporary design with traditional craftsmanship. From the more homely atmosphere and traditional decorate of Garden Lodge to the contemporary and sophisticated décor of Forest Lodge, Grootbos ticks all boxes. Villa Two houses 12 adults and comes complete with a private pool and wine cellar – perfect for a memorable house party.

Grootbos is not just accommodation, it’s a luxurious wilderness experience which will leave you feeling revitalised, relaxed and totally in awe of the natural world.

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Client Testimonials

I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket

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