Grootbos, at the epicentre of the Cape’s Unique Floral Kingdom, is two hours from Cape Town, driving east through the lauded Western Cape.

It is perhaps the most sincere luxuryeco-nature-reserve in Africa and the feeling of ‘remote’ is invigorating. The ‘luxury’ here is as much in the ‘eco’ as it is in the outstanding attention to authentic-lodge detail, maintaining a skilful harmony and stylish match with nature. However, the outstanding panoramic vista from the wallto-ceiling glass that fronts the forest suites is priceless. Cumulus-coated mountains rise alongside the thrusting drama of an epic Ocean, across acres of aromatic wildflower-sprinkled ‘fynbos’ (the indigenous vegetation). The gentle splashes of purples, white, pinks, oranges and green, as well as banks of pale cream dunes in the distance, triggers an instinctive desire to invest in serious art material.

The Forest lodges want for nothing, though shy away from excess. A little Nordic in character; they are slick and tastefully natural, creating cosseting comfort in suites that are the size of many homes. These are romantic dwellings, designed to maximise the impact of the external beauty while keeping the interiors stylishly contemporary.

The jaw-dropping panorama from the main reception and dining area spans from Cape Point to Danger Point; framed by an endless wall of glass. The palette of proteaorange with fynbos-green and plenty of exposed wood, is perfectly choreographed with its regal host, which brags more species of wild flowers than almost any other ‘floral kingdom’ worldwide. There are over 700 species and growing, due to a remarkable act of nature: when fire is friend not foe. Eighteen months ago, Grootbos was burnt to the ground, an unstoppable act of Nature that pursues a relentless course in order to continue the survival of the species, and in some cases, the arrival.

So, not only do you have the reservoir of wonders in the nature reserve, you have an Ocean that will blow you away. Whales, worshipped and protected, and as far away from the Pacific as possible, are witnessed doing what they do best; having a good time. On our second day we took to the sky in a four-seater from the reserve’s private runway, which is styled between acres of fynbos and grazing horses. With a billowing westerly wind on our side we glided over at least fifty Southern Right whales, including two rare albino calves (only 4% of the population) swimming snug next to mum.

There are real opportunities here at Grootbos, real adventures to be cherished, with life enhancing ingredients. However, what coats the experience in something far greater than the five star luxury; is the feeling of putting something back, of contributing to a landand a community that is well, well, worth staying for.

Find out more and book direct with the hotel at www.luxuryexplorer.com