The De Hoop Trail allows you to experience and understand the diversity and uniqueness of the biozones in the De Hoop Nature Reserve as you walk with an experienced guide.
It is a rich encounter … from experiencing the vlei to watching whales in the marine protected waters, from rich fynbos plains to deserted coastline.
The trail covers 38kms over 4 days. It is fully catered and your nights are in 4* accommodation.
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The De Hoop Nature Reserve and Protected Marine Area is called the Jewel of the Cape due to the awesome diversity of natural wonders.
Few other reserves offer as complete an outdoor experience as this World Heritage site. The diversity of 1 500 plant species is amongst the highest in the Cape Floristic Region. Enjoy the privilege of walking amongst pristine fynbos vegetation.
There is also a great animal diversity – from marine creatures like migrating Whales (from May to November) and Dolphins to African wildlife like rare Cape Mountain Zebra and Bontebok. Smaller predators and various bat species, the latter in a large limestone breeding cave, can also be found. De Hoop is one of the world’s most important calving grounds for Southern Right Whales. It is also an important nursery area for depleted angling fish species.
The De Hoop Vlei (a shallow natural lake) is a 19km long Ramsar site (wetland of international ecological importance). This highly productive ecosystem is the breeding ground for aquatic birds and other organisms who can feed undisturbed. Many of the 260 bird species which occur at De Hoop can be seen here. It also boasts several pairs of African Fish Eagles. Their high-pitched call, the so-called “voice of Africa”, contributes to the wild charm of this area.
The De Hoop Vlei is also a safe shelter for 12 waterfowl species during the dry summer months. Visitors can spot as many as 13 species of migrant waders, for example the Curlew Sandpipers, Little Stints or Ruffs. Whiskered and White Winged Terns visit this vlei in summer when the water level drops and mud flats are exposed.
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Accommodation:
The Melkkamer (The Milk Room/ House) is on the western bank of the De Hoop Vlei. Built in 1907, it has Neo-Cape as well as Edwardian and Art Nouveau features. It has tall chimneys, high ceilings and spacious verandas. Max. 8 guests stay in 4 luxurious en- suite rooms.
Additional guests, if required, can be accommodated in the restored Foreman’s Cottage. A generator provides electricity during hours required for lighting. Kerosene lanterns are also available.
The De Mond Villa: Houses a max of 10 guests. This modern 5 luxury en-suite villa has stunning views of the vlei, is off grid and has a pool plus outdoor entertainment area.
- Minimum of 4 people and maximum of 10 people ( over 12 years of age).
- A reasonable level of fitness and in total 38.5 kms are covered.
- 4 days and 3 nights in beautiful, historic Melkamer Manor, or the De Mond House, both fully catered. A luxury walking trail.
- 2 full days are spent walking with an interpretive guide
- Walking pace is leisurely with a focus on nature: birding, game viewing, fynbos vegetation and marine experiences
- After check out, The Saunter suggests that you aim to visit the superb new exhibition on man’s early behaviours as interpreted from South African fossil finds.
Book by emailing res@dehoopcollection.co.za 
More Detail: Day 1 – Arrival
Check-in at the reception of the Main De Hoop Opstal area at 14h00. You will be met by the De Hoop Melkkamer Trail guide. Park your car in a designated parking area and then enjoy a transfer by boat/open vehicle (weather permitting) across the vlei to the Melkkamer Manor.
Mid afternoon, you arrive at the Manor house after a slow, informative trip. Enjoy sundowner drinks and canapés before being introduced to the Melkkamer area of De Hoop Nature Reserve.
Your trail guide will brief you for the next days. Afternoon at leisure and then indulge in a wholesome evening meal. After dinner, you can socialize or enjoy an informal guided interpretive star gazing activity.
Day 2 – Exploring De Hoop Nature Reserve
Early wake-up call before sunrise. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, rusks or freshly squeezed orange juice. Fruit and cereals will also be served. Walk along the vlei shore and enjoy an interpretive and identification experience of the birdlife found on the vlei.
Day 3 – De Hoop Nature Reserve
Begin with a light breakfast and a transfer to the beach at Koppie Alleen. Here, you will have the opportunity to walk along the undeveloped coast and experience protected marine life in the rock pools.
Guests can have some fun on the spectacular sand dunes. Enjoy Whale and Dolphin sightings in season. You will be driven back to the Melkkamer Manor accommodation after lunch where you will have traditional high tea. The late afternoon is at your leisure. In the evening, culinary experiences are prepared on the open fire.
You will also learn about the fynbos vegetation in this area of the reserve. Return late morning for brunch and a midday siesta. In the afternoon, after the heat of the day, you will go on a short walk. You will return before sunset for a delicious dinner cooked over the fire.
Day 4 – Departure
Relax around the Manor house or enjoy early game viewing and bird watching on the vlei before breakfast. Around 10h30, guests will be transferred by boat or vehicle back to reception for check out and departure.
What to Bring
- Neutral coloured clothing, sun hat, swimming towels, rain jacket, tracksuit or warm jacket (during summer and winter)
- Comfortable walking shoes (thick soles and ankle support) and sandals with rubber soles (for walking along the coast)
- Camera, sunscreen lotion plus if you would like: : Insect repellent, walking stick, a good torch, reference books, binoculars
Included
- Accommodation at Melkkamer or De Mond Villa and all meals plus teas, coffees and juices.
- Internal transfers in De Hoop Nature Reserve
Some Nearby Listings
De Hoop Collection A..
Overberg District Municipality...
De Hoop Reserve and ..
Overberg District Municipality...
Joubertsdal Country ..
R60, Swellendam, 6740...
