It's more than just a retreat, it's total surrender.

More than 100 southern right whales visit the De Hoop coastline from May to December to calve.
An unequalled experience awaits hikers who embark on the new five-day Whale Hiking Trail that has been developed by Cape Nature Conservation at the De Hoop Nature Reserve near Bredasdorp.

The trail traverses one of the Western Cape's most unique and diverse nature reserves, while providing nature lovers and those who love the outdoors with unique comfortable overnight accommodation situated at spectacular locations.

Can't wait to join the whale trail?
Click here to find out more detail about the trail, what to bring and what to expect!

The route stretches over 54km from Potberg to Koppie Alleen, and includes five overnight stops. The trail offers the opportunity to explore the unsurpassed natural diversity of the De Hoop Nature Reserve, where the fragrance of fynbos on the Potberg mountains and the unique limestone fynbos plains intermingle with the salty sea air of the marine protected area.

Overlooking the fynbos veld towards the coast
Along the way, hikers can marvel at the abundance of indigenous plants while looking for members of the last remaining vulture colony in the Western Cape, numerous other bird species and small antelope.

And, yes, of course the whales! De Hoop is world-renowned as one of the best whale-watching spots. Between June and December, this coastline is transformed into one of the world's most important nursery areas for southern right whales. Whale watchers regularly stand in awe at the sight of more than 50 of these sea giants lying a mere kilometre from the coast.

The overnight cottage at Vaalkrans
The cottages — ranging from Arniston-style houses to A-framed thatched "kapstyl" cottages — are located at the foot of the Potberg mountains, nestled along the coastline and perched high on a sea cliff. "Roughing it" wasn't part of the package when the overnight accommodation was planned. The five cottages all have a kitchen and living area, modern bathrooms and toilets, warm water, beds with mattresses, firewood and solar powered lights. Most of the overnight facilities have built-in braais.

The trail is designed to attract nature lovers with a moderate degree of fitness. Unfortunately, no children under eight years are allowed. The hiking over five days, vary in intensity. Day one is the most strenuous and covers 14.7km up the 611m high fynbos-clad Potberg mountain. In comparison, the third day is only 8km long and allows leisure time to explore the marine life in the numerous rock pools along the coast.


Reservations are limited to group bookings of a minimum of six or a maximum of 12 people. The cost is R430 per person for the five days.

Demand is particularly high for bookings during the peak whale season and chances are if you don't already have a booking it's too late!

For more information and to make a reservation contact Cape Nature Conservation at De Hoop on (028) 542-1126 or dehoopinfo@sdm.dorea.co.za