Bird lovers can enjoy their annual Cape indulgence in November this year, when the avian-wealthy De Hoop Nature reserve adds some extra allure to their birding paradise.
Throughout November, the De Hoop Collection will be hosting expert-led birding talks and will be offering birding enthusiasts a free birding walk and a free breakfast with every booking made.
A mere three hour’s out of Cape Town, De Hoop is a rich and diverse fynbos kingdom on the ocean, boasting a 19km Ramsar wetland site vlei and a 36 000 hectare reserve, which makes it both a unique and diverse spot for twitchers and seasoned ornithologists alike.
About 260 bird species occur at De Hoop. The vlei boasts several pairs of African fish eagles and their distinctive high-pitched call, the voice of Africa, contributes to the charm of the birding experience. The area is a safe shelter for twelve waterfowl species during the dry summer months. As many as 13 species of migrant waders including curlew sandpipers, ruffs, little stints, whiskered and white winged terns visit the vlei in summer, when the water level drops and the mud flats are exposed. Couple this with the resident and migrant bird species attracted by the fynbos, and you can understand why De Hoop has earned its place internationally, as a top birding destination.
The De Hoop Collection offers a wide range of accommodation options, catering to families travelling on a limited budget, couples seeking a comfortable but affordable breakaway or international guests looking for a top-end luxury experience. From camping and caravanning sites and affordable self-catering rondawels to more luxurious self-catering cottages and five-star fully catered lodges, there is something for everyone.
In addition to spectacular birding opportunities, guests of all ages and tastes will find something to do at De Hoop. Nature lovers will enjoy the interpretive rock pool and fynbos walks and guided beach-based whale watching, while the more adventurous can set out on the extensive hiking and mountain biking trails. There’s a swimming pool, tennis court, boules courtyard and mountain bikes and a specially-tailored kids’ programme complete with baby-sitting services.
About the De Hoop Collection:
The De Hoop Collection opened in the De Hoop Nature Reserve in 2008 under the creative and entrepreneurial hands of Carl Trieloff and William Stephens, renowned for their successful Madikwe Game reserve developments. In a spectacular setting, with conservation aspects managed by Cape Nature, the reserve offers a wide range of accommodation types designed to suit all budgets. Visitors to the De Hoop Collection enjoy unparalleled peace and tranquillity in what must be one of the Cape’s last unspoiled gems.
http://www.dehoopcollection.co.za/