Image related to website content

CapeNature announces reopening of Scolopia at Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve

18 May 2023

CapeNature is pleased to announce the reopening of its Scolopia self-catering unit at Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve after undergoing major renovations. Scolopia now offers an enhanced experience in nature, with modern amenities and comfortable living spaces, making it an ideal base for exploring the reserve and enjoying the beauty of the Western Cape.

Scolopia is situated in the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve, between Swellendam and Heidelberg, and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The accommodation unit boasts two spacious rooms, each with a double bed, one with an en-suite bathroom, an open plan lounge and kitchen. The unit can accommodate up to four guests and is suitable for families and couples looking for a peaceful retreat. Scolopia also features a wood-fired hot tub and a private splash pool, providing guests with a secluded and relaxing experience away from other visitors on the nature reserve. The enclosed lapa, with built-in braai as well as the indoor fireplaces are perfect for those cooler winter evenings.

The renovation of Scolopia is part of CapeNature's commitment to provide comfortable accommodation facilities for its visitors while conserving the natural environment. The upgraded unit incorporates sustainable design features, such as energy-efficient lighting and water-saving fixtures, to minimise its impact on the environment.

"We are thrilled to reopen Scolopia and offer our visitors an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful areas of the Western Cape," said Dr Razeena Omar, CEO of CapeNature. "We believe that the upgraded self-catering unit will provide visitors with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying modern comforts and amenities. Scolopia is a testament to CapeNature's commitment to sustainable tourism. The upgrades will not only enhance our guests' experience but also contribute to the local economy and support our conservation efforts."

While staying at Scolopia, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the stunning surroundings of Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve. The reserve boasts a wide range of activities, from hiking and mountain biking to birdwatching and swimming in the nearby river or private splash pool. The reserve is also home to several indigenous plant species, including the rare and beautiful forest tree, Scolopia mundii, which the accommodation unit is named after. Guests can take a leisurely stroll through the forest to admire the unique flora and fauna or relax in the peaceful surroundings. There are also various picnic spots throughout the reserve where visitors can enjoy a meal.

The reopening of Scolopia marks an exciting new chapter for CapeNature's accommodation offerings. The upgraded unit is available for booking immediately, and guests can enjoy a special promotional rate from R1340,00 per night for four people until 31 July 2023.

For more information about Scolopia and to book your stay, please visit https://www.capenature.co.za/accommodation/scolopia or call 087 087 8250.

Image related to website content

From Scolopia's deck visitors are treated to a beautiful vista of the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve

Image related to website content

Scolopia's main bedroom is modern and spacious

Image related to website content

The hot tub makes Scolopia a popular choice for overnight accommodation, especially in winter

Share:

Related News

Geelkrans Nature Reserve 1
22 May 2026
Western Cape conservation efforts highlighted on World Biodiversity Day

Every year on 22 May, International Day for Biological Diversity (or World Biodiversity Day) is commemorated, and is meant to increase awareness about the many wonders of biodiversity, the numerous threats to it, and more importantly, what we can do to reduce or eliminate these threats. It marks 34 years since the Convention on Biological Diversity (CDB) came into force and reinforces the pledge

Biodiv Winners
22 May 2026
The Big Biodiversity Challenge Returns to Inspire Young Eco-Champions

The Western Cape Environmental Education Friends (WCEEF), together with members CapeNature, Western Cape Government, SANBI, Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), Nature Connect, SANParks, Working on Fire, the City of Cape Town and the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, announces the return of its flagship biodiversity competition for learners in grades 6 – 9.

C van Tonder
20 May 2026
CapeNature urges public not to unnecessarily remove chameleons following Garden Route storms

Members of the public are urged to assist wildlife responsibly following recent severe weather events in the Garden Route, and to avoid the unnecessary removal of chameleons from their natural habitat. Following severe storms experienced in the region over the last two weeks, many trees have lost branches or fallen entirely. As a result, some small animals have been displaced from their natural habitat.

Assegaaibosch 11052026
13 May 2026
CapeNature hit by widespread flooding, power outages and infrastructure damage

CapeNature is assessing widespread damage across its Protected Areas following several days of severe weather that have affected multiple reserves and surrounding communities through electricity outages, flooding and disrupted road access across the Western Cape. Successive cold fronts brought heavy rainfall, gale-force winds and localised flooding across the Province, resulting in infrastructure damage, blocked routes and disruption to operations.

Cederberg photo by peter hagan 2025
23 Apr 2026
Western Cape fire season shows record early intensity and significant increase in fire activity

The 2025–2026 summer fire season began with exceptional intensity for CapeNature – official statistics showed a sharp rise in fire ignitions, high temperatures, and a large expanse of burnt areas across the Western Cape. Historically, the fire season is considered to run from 1 October to 31 March. However, activity began as early as September 2025, well before the traditional high-risk period from November onwards.

S4 EP 1 James Reeler Monique Ruthenberg host Dan Corder
13 Apr 2026
Wildfires intensify as climate shifts, CapeNature warns in emergency podcast series

CapeNature has released a special series of its acclaimed Green Noise podcast, offering an urgent and deeply human perspective on South Africa’s recent wildfire season. The series has a particular focus on the devastating fires in the Cederberg Wilderness and changing weather patterns. The fire in the Cederberg Wilderness, which ignited on 22 December 2025 along Uitkyk Pass