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www.dehoopcollection.co.za Tel : +27 (0) 21 422 4522
Email: [email protected]
THE DE HOOP TRAIL
Walk and experience the natural and cultural history of the De
Hoop Nature and Marine reserve with an experienced guide. There are
many natural wonders in the world but only a few with such awesome
diversity – De Hoop, The Jewel of the Cape. General Info: De Hoop
represents a treasure-chest of natural and cultural assets. The
diversity of 1 500 plant species is amongst the highest in the Cape
Floristic Region, with a large percentage of rare, threatened and
endemic species. The discerning visitor is privileged to walk
amongst pristine fynbos vegetation and view the flowering plants at
close quarters. The invertebrate animal wealth is equally diverse.
A safe refuge is provided for rare mammals such as the Bontebok and
Cape Mountain Zebra, smaller predators and various bat species, the
latter in a large breeding cave. These limestone cave systems are
unique and preserved in a pristine condition. The De Hoop Marine
Reserve is one of the world’s most important calving grounds for
the southern right whale and an important nursery area for depleted
angling fish species. From a cultural-historical perspective,
visitors experience a bygone era. De Hoop houses undisturbed
archaeological sites of great significance. The historical
homesteads at De Hoop, Melkkamer and Potberg are well-preserved
architectural examples and many of the previous landowners maintain
life-long sentimental ties with the reserve. The De Hoop Nature
Reserve has a diversity of values for people, from practical to
aesthetic, from watershed protection to spiritual inspiration. It
is a magnificent outdoor classroom, offering spectacular walking
opportunities for visitors. The Trail Area: The De Hoop Vlei is
16km long and a highly productive ecosystem; a Ramsar site of
international ecological importance where aquatic birds and other
organisms breed and feed undisturbed. Many of the 260 bird species
which occur at De Hoop can be seen here. The vlei boasts several
pairs of African fish eagles. Their high-pitched call, the voice of
Africa, contributes to the wild charm of the area. 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.
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www.dehoopcollection.co.za Tel : +27 (0) 21 422 4522
Email: [email protected]
Accommodation:
Situated on the western bank of the De Hoop vlei is a remote
area known as the Melkkamer (The Milk Room or Milk House)
originally the centre of the farm, ‘The Hope’. The Melkkamer
homestead was built in 1907 and has both Neo-Cape as well as
Edwardian and Art Nouveau features. It is the epitome of stylish
elegance, with tall chimneys, spacious verandas and high ceilings.
The Manor house has recently been restored by the De Hoop
Collection. It is here that the trail guests will be accommodated
in four luxurious en suite rooms for the duration of the trail
(three nights). The atmosphere is relaxing with a Colonial-Africa
ambience. The restored Foreman’s cottage will accommodate the
additional guests when required. Electricity is in the form of
generator during hours required for lighting - kerosene lanterns
are also provided. Catering:
The trail provides wholesome meals freshly prepared by our Chef
either on the open fire or gas stove, while interacting with the
guests adding to the trail experience. Prior arrangements are to be
made on reservation for any special dietary requirements. (e.g.
vegetarians) A bar is provided with soft drinks, beers and local
wines (Excluded in the rate). Drinking water, tea, coffee and fruit
juice is provided and included in the rate. Trail info & Daily
itinerary: A maximum of twelve persons aged 12 and older may
participate. A reasonable level of fitness is required, however the
walking pace is leisurely and an interpretive experience with the
natural environment. The general rules and regulations of Cape
Nature and De Hoop Nature Reserve will apply and indemnity
documents will be completed before participating. The trail
incorporates birding, game viewing, the fynbos and marine
experiences.
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www.dehoopcollection.co.za Tel : +27 (0) 21 422 4522
Email: [email protected]
The trail begins on either a Friday afternoon to a Monday
morning or a Monday Afternoon to a Thursday morning. It is a three
night, catered, luxury trail with two full days spent walking with
an interpretive guide. DAY 1 (Day of Arrival)
Trailists arrive and check-in at the reception of the Main De
Hoop Opstal area at 14h00, were the group will be met by the trail
guide. Vehicles are left here in a designated parking area and
guests are transferred by boat/open vehicle (weather permitting)
across the vlei to the Melkkamer Manor house. Guests arrive at the
Manor house mid afternoon after a slow informative trip from the
main Opstal Reception. Guests are treated to sundown drinks and
canapés, and orientated/introduced to the Melkkamer area. Your
guide will explain and brief guests on the routine for the next
couple of days and answer any questions. The rest of the afternoon
is spent at leisure. After a wholesome evening meal the guests will
have the opportunity to sit around the fire and socialise or
partake in an informal guided interpretive star gazing activity.
DAY 2
The morning begins with an early wake up call before sunrise
with a cup of coffee, tea, rusks or freshly squeezed orange juice.
Fruit and cereals will be served before the mornings walk along the
vlei shore. An interpretive and identification experience of the
birdlife found on the vlei and fynbos in the area. Returning late
morning for a well deserved brunch and a midday siesta. The
afternoon activity is a short walk departing after the heat of the
day and returning before sunset for a hearty meal cooked over the
fire.
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www.dehoopcollection.co.za Tel : +27 (0) 21 422 4522
Email: [email protected]
DAY 3
The Third day begins with a cup of coffee, tea, or fresh juice.
A light breakfast will be served after which guests will be driven
by vehicle to the beach at Koppie Alleen were you will have the
opportunity to walk along the undeveloped coast and experience
protected marine life in the rock pools and spectacular sand dunes.
Dolphins and Whale sightings are a highlight in season. Individual
picnic lunch packs will be provided for your day’s coastal
adventure. Guests will be driven back to the Melkkamer Manor
accommodation after lunch, where traditional high tea will be
served at approximately 15h00. The rest of the afternoon is spent
at leisure before the evening culinary experience prepared on open
fire. The fourth morning guests have the opportunity of relaxing
around the Manor or enjoying early game viewing and bird watching
on the vlei before breakfast. At approximately 10h30, guests will
be transferred by boat or vehicle back to reception for check out
and departure. What to bring: Neutral coloured clothing, sun hat
and rain jacket, swimming towels. A tracksuit or warm jacket is
recommended in summer and winter months. Comfortable walking shoes
preferably with thick soles and ankle support. Sandals with rubber
soles are useful on the coast. The trail provides for all bedding,
linen and towels. OPTIONAL: Camera Reference books Binoculars
Sunscreen lotion Insect repellent Walking sticks A good flash light
( torch)
- NO CELL PHONES, VIDEO GAMES OR RADIOS/CD/MP3 PLAYERS Rates: R
5500 PER PERSON SHARING De Hoop Collection Terms and booking
conditions apply. Rates include accommodation, internal reserve
transfers, all scheduled meals, hot/cold teas, coffees and juices.
Rate excludes cool drinks and alcoholic beverages.
