Gourikwa Reserve

The estate was proclaimed a private nature reserve in 1995. It is the largest private nature reserve along the South African coastline. It extends over 2455 hectares (6066 acres) and stretches 5 km along the Indian Ocean. The reserve is fully fenced along its 15 km perimeter and is only accessible via two gated entrances.

Well preserved ancient fish traps and shell middens are situated along the reserve's coastline and pay testament to our great heritage. The fish traps date back to the Later Stone Age people (Khoikhoi) who roamed the coastline about 2000 years ago.

A walk up Buffelskop (212 m - the highest point on the reserve) offers a magnificent view of the entire coastline, the light house and a vast undulating inland landscape.

ACCOMMODATION

Fisherman House's (9 x Units)

The fisherman houses are secluded 2 bedroomed and 1 ½ bathroomed cottages with a cozy fireplace and fully stocked kitchenette. There is a veranda with a built-in braai providing spectacular views of the rocky shore and seascape.
Facilities: Fireplace, WiFi, Bed Linen supplied, tea/coffee making facility, each unit sleeps 4, one unit sleeps 6.

Gourikwa Villas (15 x Units)

The single villas are perched on a hill and have a wide view of the beautiful mountains and sea. Some units have a kitchenette with a microwave and bar fridge while other units have an extra dressing area. Double and twin rooms available.
Facilities: WiFi, Bed Linen supplied, TV with select DSTV channels, each unit sleeps 2.

Gourikwa Cottages (5 x Units)

The cottages are at the sea's edge with wonderful sea views. Each unit has a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, stove and microwave. One bedroom has double bed and the other twin beds.
Facilities: Fireplace, WiFi, Bed Linen supplied, TV with select DSTV channels, hairdryer, each unit sleeps 4.

Gourikwa Honeymoon Cottage (1 x Unit)

The honeymoon cottage is perfect for the romantic getaway for 2. It has all the above facilities, sleeps 2.

GOURIKWA CONFERENCING

The conference room can seat up to 50 people in U-shape or cinema style. Full PA system available.

GOURIKWA WEDDINGS

A simply stunning venue for a special day! The Chapel can seat up to 140 guests - the romantic wooden walkways provide a great entrance as well as excellent photo opportunities. Contact us for your tailor-made wedding plans.

SOCIAL AREAS

There is a swimming pool for guests to enjoy, a lounge and bar area with a TV showing select DSTV channels, as well as a lovely courtyard area. A small tuckshop is at Reception selling items such as wood, blitz, milk and ice, amongst other small items.

PROPERTY FEATURES

The Ystervark Punt Lighthouse, part of the South African National Ports Authority's network, is an iconic feature on the Western part of the estate. This automatic lighthouse was first commissioned on 4th August 1964 and rebuilt in 2006. It stands 21 metres tall with a rotating light (605.000 candle powers) with a range of 24 sea miles.

Various species of game have been reintroduced to the reserve in the late 90's. Species include a large herd of Eland (approximately 30) and 14 endangered Cape Mountain Zebra.  Species that occur in the area naturally are Bushbuck, Honey badger, Caracal and the African Wildcat. Studies are underway to determine which species may occur on the reserve due to the Fynbos biome.
The reserve has its own slipway which allows launching small and medium-sized boats.

Large open areas (tarred and grass) at the main centre provide for comfortable helicopter landing.

Ample fresh water resources are available from boreholes and fountains.

SITUATED

Gourikwa private nature reserve is situated along one of the world most breathtaking coastlines - the Garden Route, known as South Africa's safe haven. It is famed for its scenic beauty and abundant biodiversity. Located halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, the estate is easily accessible via George airport and the N2 (national road).

Two world-renown golf courses, namely The Links at Fancourt (George) and Pinnacle Point (Mossel Bay), are within a 30-60 minute drive by car.

Along the Garden Route you have access to The Garden Route National Park, shark cage diving, deep sea fishing, bungee jumping, hiking the famous Otter Trail and whale watching, to name a few local attractions.

Mossel Bay (situated 40 km east of the reserve) is factually recorded in the Guiness Books of Records as the second mildest climate in the world, after Hawaii.

Gourikwa Reserve offers scenic routes for hiking as well as mountain biking and provides great opportunities for bird watching.