De Hoop Nature Reserve is located just three hours from Cape Town along the world-famous Garden and Whale Routes. Positioned in the scenic Overberg near Africa’s southern tip, the reserve can be accessed via Bredasdorp or Swellendam. The Overberg region is known for its charming towns, growing wine industry and excellent local cuisine.

Spanning 36,000 hectares, De Hoop is a World Heritage Site celebrated for its remarkable biodiversity and more than 70 kilometres of unspoilt coastline. A 19-kilometre vlei (wetland) runs through the reserve and is listed under the Ramsar Convention as a Wetland of International Importance. With so much to see and do, a minimum two-night stay is recommended.

Opstal Vlei Cottages

These charming thatched two-bedroom cottages offer privacy and partial views of the vlei. Each features a comfortable living and dining area, a well-equipped kitchen, a cosy fireplace, and a bathroom supplied with linen and towels. Both self-catering and catered options are available.

The Opstal Vlei Cottages are situated within the main Opstal area — the largest accommodation hub within the De Hoop Collection — conveniently close to the central offices, restaurant, bar and curio shop. Many of the reserve’s highlights are easily reached by car, foot or bicycle. Guests also have access to a tennis court, swimming pool and boules court.

If choosing the self-catering option, guests are advised to bring their own provisions. The curio shop stocks firewood, firelighters and meat, but primarily operates as a gift shop rather than a grocery store. Firewood is not supplied (except in suites with fireplaces) but can be purchased on site or brought along.

Cottage Features

Facilities:

• Kitchen, lounge and dining area
• Outdoor braai with permanent grid
• Kettle, toaster, microwave, fridge/freezer, stove/oven
• Basic crockery, cutlery and utensils
• Sink with dishwashing liquid and sponge provided

Bedrooms:

• 1 double room and 1 twin room
• Linen and hangers provided

Bathroom:

• Shower, basin and toilet
• Towels, bath mat, soap, hand wash, shampoo & conditioner, body wash & lotion provided

Whale Season

Each year, approximately 40% of the world’s Southern Right whale population migrates to these protected waters to breed and calve. As both a marine reserve and World Heritage Site, De Hoop provides a safe nursery for these endangered giants.

From late May to November, visitors can witness females and calves in the shallows, while males display spectacular breaching and tail-slapping behaviours. During peak season, 500–600 whales frequent the coastline, with sightings of 50–75 whales at a time not uncommon. De Hoop is widely regarded as one of the world’s finest land-based whale-watching destinations, with whales often visible from the dunes.

Wildlife

Mammals (86+ species):
Eland, bontebok, baboon, Cape mountain zebra, grey rhebok, duiker, steenbok and more.

Marine Life:
Southern Right whales, dolphins and seals inhabit the three-nautical-mile protected marine reserve offshore.

Birdlife (259+ species):
Including Cape griffon vultures, ostriches, African oystercatchers and many others.

The Fig Tree Restaurant

The Fig Tree Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, teas, coffees and cakes. Fully licensed, it offers a curated selection of local wines, craft beers and ciders.

Located in the main Opstal area, the restaurant welcomes both day visitors and overnight guests in a relaxed and inviting setting. Once a working farm shed and later a maintenance building, it has been beautifully restored into a contemporary dining space with sweeping views over the De Hoop Vlei.

Amenities

• Fridge
• Fully Furnished Kitchen
• Lounge
• Microwave
• Oven
• Stove
• Tea and coffee making facilities
• Writing desk

Facilities Available at De Hoop Nature Reserve Vlei Cottages

• Braai facilities
• Conference venue
• Hiking trails
• Parking
• Restaurant
• Swimming Pool
• The Bird hide

More Information on De Hoop Nature Reserve Vlei Cottages

• Rooms at De Hoop Nature Reserve Vlei Cottages
• Getting to De Hoop Nature Reserve Vlei Cottages
• Accreditations
• Services & Conferencing