Set in the cliffs of our beautiful coastline, are the most incredible sea caves, and hiking trails in the Cape. The cavernous main cave has an archaeological dig site, which provided evidence of man existing in this region 80 000 years ago. Remember to take your camera for the most amazing photos!
Courtesy: Richard Turner
FYNBOS & MILKWOOD FORESTS
Some of the world’s richest flora and mystical Milkwood forests is found in the Cape. 4 x 4 trips are highly popular for Cape Town visitors - both international tourists and Cape Town holiday makers alike. We are happy to help you arrange a 4 by 4 trip if you would like.
BEACHES & SWIMMING
On either side of Gansbaai are magnificent unspoiled beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. There are two rock swimming pools in the area for swimmers and we have a stunning lagoon close by.
Courtesy: Richard Turner
HIKING
The Duiwelsgat Hiking Trail takes hikers from Gansbaai to nearby De Kelders along a 7 km route. The Byeneskrans Hiking Trail is a 5.5 klm circle route with a beautiful view of the sea and landscape. Bushmen caves and old Milkwood trees are part of the route.
CRUISES
DYER & GEYSER ISLAND CRUISES 5 kilometers from our shore lies Dyer Island, a fairly large island. Once used as a guano factory, it is now a bustling nature reserve, inhabited by many beautiful, and some endangered bird species. Behind Dyer Island lies the much smaller Geyser Rock, which is overpopulated with the lovable Cape Fur Seals - the main food source for great white sharks.
They are Renowned for their playful manner, and are a joy to watch from so close - Jumping out of the water, waving and barking at you as you pass. The water, which lies between these two islands, is the hunting grounds of the gracious Great White Shark. Two well-informed guides will take you out to view these islands, and their inhabitants, in a very comfortable Boat for shark viewing or shark cage diving.
LAGOON CRUISES A slow meander along the beautiful lagoon at sundown, with free Graca wine and snacks, is the perfect way to end off a day!
SPORTS
SCUBA DIVING Fantastic Cape Town area Scuba Diving, with a highly experienced Master Diver, who has lived in this area for many years. Guided dives include: Reef Dives, Kelp Forest Dives; Wreck Dives, Night Dives, and deep dives.
Courtesy: Richard Turner
SEA KAYAKING You will be guided along the renowned, unique coastline, where you can admire nature from an absolutely splendid viewpoint, with easy paddling on half or full day trips. Explore between Hermanus’ two harbours, with a very knowledgeable guide. No experience needed.
LAGOON KAYAKING A must for bird enthusiasts! The river boosts over 130 species of birds, including the African fish Eagle. Paddle from Stanford to Hermanus with an experienced guide; enjoy lunch and refreshments as you float along the majestic river! BOAT HIRE - You can also hire: paddle skis; motorboat or canoes.
FISHING Great angling from either of our 2 harbour breakwaters or from the many rocky outcrops along our coast. Deep-sea fishing groups need to contact us to ascertain availability of a suitable craft and experienced local deep-sea fisherman.
Courtesy: Richard Turner
HORSE RIDING In a beautiful valley surrounding by hills and streams.
GOLF KLIENBAAI GOLF COURSE - When the wind blows, this course is not as easy as it looks! HERMANUS GOLF COURSE - For pleasant game on an exquisite course, complete with all the creature comfits to really enjoy the day. Hermanus’ golf club also boosts an elaborate lounge, and stunning verandah with views overlooking the mountains. ARABELLA GOLF COURSE - Set on a spectacular lagoon overlooking the sea – new course that meets top international standards and attracts Golfers from all over the world. This golf course boasts the only 6 star hotel in South Africa! CALEDON, RIVIERSONDERSOND, & BREDASDORP GOLF COURSES- small country towns, with golf courses who welcome visitors.
BOWLS Join our local bowling club on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays for tab in at 14h00.
CLOSE BY
MICRO BREWERY & CHEESE FARM Birkenhead brewery, as the first brewing estate in the Southern Hemisphere this is a wonderful micro brewery that offers tours of the brewery and estate. Enjoy freshly a selection of brewed draught beer tasting in their stunning pub, which also offers excellent meals.
Visit a cheese farm close to Birkenhead and sample some excellent local cheeses!
CAPE L’AGULHAS Just over an hour’s drive from Saxon Lodge – lies the southern most tip of Africa, where The Atlantic and Indian oceans meet. Fantastic views from the lighthouse which houses an excellent museum depicting lighthouses from all over the world. Also visit nearby Arniston Fishing village – the whole village is a national monument!
Courtesy: Richard Turner
WINE FARMS There are 12 wine farms in the area, which offer a fun relaxed day, traveling through the area, and tasting the fruits of the vine!
CASINO & SPA Try your luck at CALEDON casino, just 45 minutes away – or just relax and be spoilt in their spa, have a Swedish massage or just soak up the healing properties of these hot mineral water springs.
Of course, the most important attraction we have left to last...
SAXON LODGE guest house in gansbaai is the place of choice to relax and de-stress. You can choose to sunbathe on our pool deck and gaze at the stunning views across Walker Bay, or just relax in your own private suite and read a good book or watch television. Join us in our cozy pub in the evening to meet new friends and let us spoil you with excellent cuisine in our Restaurant!
