It was in 1991 that the Lutzeyer family first set eyes on a small farm on the fynbos slopes overlooking Walker Bay – and they couldn’t believe the beauty they saw. In 1994 Michael sold his business interests in Cape Town and decided to develop a bed and breakfast on the site for local visitors, not knowing that soon he would be attracting visitors from across the globe. Since then, through a combination of hard work, enthusiasm, vision and strong family cooperation, the Lutzeyers have turned the reserve into a world leader in progressive luxury tourism, transforming the lives of community members and preserving 2500 hectares of botanical and wildlife treasures.

We go beyond simply conserving this pristine wilderness we call home. We’re constantly researching, innovating and pioneering new ways of doing things, and winning many eco-tourism awards along the way.

Our reserve offers you the chance to immerse yourself in the unique fynbos kingdom and ancient forest of Grootbos, featuring 791 plant species, 118 bird species, 29 mammals and 21 amphibians – some of which are under threat of extinction.