Sunnyside - De Hoop Nature Reserve

Sunnyside is a guesthouse near De Hoop Nature Reserve.

Location
De Hoop Nature Reserve, Western Cape & Garden Route, South Africa, Southern Africa
Type
hotel
Coordinates
-34.394035, 20.823154
Elevation
34m
Price range
luxury
Phone
+27 828 504 318
Email
[email protected]
Website
https://witsand.co.za
Activities
Fishing, Spa
Amenities
Spa, Wifi, Restaurant, Dining, Bar, Lounge, Library, Gym

PlnrScore: 58/100

Sustainability

sustainable tourism

Community

education

Wildlife Near This Lodge

1455 species observed within 20 km, 44 mammals, 170 birds.

  • Wartstem Pincushion (Plantae, 124 observations)
  • Silverball Conebush (Plantae, 104 observations)
  • Toothleaf Sugarbush (Plantae, 91 observations)
  • Oleander-leaf Protea (Plantae, 89 observations)
  • Limestone Pincushion (Plantae, 85 observations)
  • King Heath complex (Plantae, 79 observations)
  • Limestone Conebush (Plantae, 77 observations)
  • Limestone Sugarbush (Plantae, 75 observations)
  • Coastal Hedgehog Lily (Plantae, 69 observations)
  • Southern Rock Agama (Reptilia, 64 observations)

Best Time to Visit Sunnyside

The best months to visit Sunnyside are January, February, November, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 20.87°C, rainfall 46.6mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 73.5%
  • February: Great, temperature 20.82°C, rainfall 23.5mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 73.1%
  • March: Good, temperature 19.53°C, rainfall 51.5mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 76.2%
  • April: Good, temperature 16.83°C, rainfall 32.7mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 75.5%
  • May: Good, temperature 15.11°C, rainfall 60.8mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 75.4%
  • June: Poor, temperature 13.89°C, rainfall 58.4mm, sunshine 7.8 hrs, humidity 73.2%
  • July: Good, temperature 12.01°C, rainfall 40.4mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 72.4%
  • August: Good, temperature 12.58°C, rainfall 32.5mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 70.4%
  • September: Good, temperature 14.04°C, rainfall 39.1mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 70.4%
  • October: Good, temperature 16.37°C, rainfall 53.4mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 74.2%
  • November: Great, temperature 18.19°C, rainfall 36.8mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 69%
  • December: Good, temperature 19.43°C, rainfall 55.5mm, sunshine 11.8 hrs, humidity 71.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Sunnyside for whale watching?

We absolutely love visiting Sunnyside between June and November. This is when the Southern Right Whales migrate to the sheltered waters of De Hoop, and you can often spot them right from the lodge's vantage points. It's a truly breathtaking spectacle we never tire of.

Beyond the spa, what unique activities does Sunnyside offer that we should know about?

While the spa is a definite draw for relaxation, we highly recommend exploring the fishing opportunities. The waters near De Hoop are renowned for their abundance, and a guided fishing trip arranged through Sunnyside is an unforgettable experience. It offers a different perspective on the stunning coastal environment.

What kind of wildlife can we expect to see if we venture into De Hoop Nature Reserve from Sunnyside?

While De Hoop isn't a typical Big Five destination, we find its wildlife incredibly rewarding. Expect to see diverse antelope species like bontebok and eland, as well as baboons and Cape mountain zebras. Birdlife is also exceptional, particularly in the wetlands, making for fantastic photographic opportunities.

Considering Sunnyside is a luxury guesthouse, what should we budget for a typical stay, and what's included?

Sunnyside sits firmly in the luxury price bracket, so expect premium rates reflecting the quality of accommodation and service. While specific packages vary, we've found that rates generally include exquisite meals and often some guided activities. We always advise checking directly with the lodge for the most up to date inclusions and current pricing.

How does Sunnyside ensure guest safety, especially given its proximity to a nature reserve?

We've always felt incredibly secure at Sunnyside. The lodge itself is a well-managed, private property with attentive staff. When venturing into De Hoop Nature Reserve, we recommend following the reserve's guidelines and perhaps opting for guided excursions arranged by the lodge for added peace of mind and local expertise.

Other Safari Lodges in De Hoop Nature Reserve

Parks in Western Cape & Garden Route

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa