Discover the Diverse Wildlife of De Hoop Nature Reserve
Nestled within the expansive 36,000-ha De Hoop Nature Reserve, Morukuru Ocean House is a haven of luxury, offering a unique, intimate connection with one of South Africa’s most stunning coastal reserves. De Hoop, celebrated for its pristine 51km stretch of white beaches and dunes, is a canvas of unparalleled natural beauty, where the warm Indian Ocean caresses the land. With its dramatic limestone cliffs, intriguing rock pools, rich wetlands, and vibrant coastal fynbos, it is also a sanctuary to over 260 bird species. The House boasts unrivalled views, especially during mid-July to November, when the Southern Right whales choose the nearby coastal basins as their nursery, offering guests a front-row seat to one of nature’s most enchanting spectacles.
Morukuru Ocean House, a distinguished member of Relais & Chateaux, is an architectural masterpiece, providing absolute privacy and top-tier service to its guests. This exclusive retreat can comfortably accommodate 8 adults and 4 children under 16, welcoming guests of all ages to indulge in its offerings. Each of the four double rooms features floor-to-ceiling glass doors, opening up to breathtaking ocean views, with en-suite bathrooms adding a touch of privacy and luxury. The House’s interior design, inspired by the surrounding fynbos vegetation, is meticulously crafted to reflect high-quality elegance and comfort.
Beyond the rooms, guests are treated to a sparkling pool, personal butler service, a private kitchen manned by a dedicated chef, and open-plan lounge and dining areas. The garden offers spectacular views, with romantic fireplaces enhancing the atmosphere. True to the ‘Morukuru Freedom Concept’, guests have the freedom to set their schedules, allowing for a stay that is as relaxed or as adventurous as they desire..
The 4 suites at Morukuru Ocean House, each with large glass doors overlooking the Indian Ocean, offer either king or twin beds. Every bedroom boasts its own en-suite bathroom, complete with a bath, separate shower, and double vanity units.
Besides the 4 en-suite bedrooms, Morukuru Ocean House also provides a study annex which doubles as a children’s bedroom, accommodating up to four children under 16. While this room doesn’t come with a bathroom, children staying here can use the bathroom in their parents’ bedroom. The study is equipped with a large flat-screen television, PlayStation, and a selection of board games and other entertainment items to keep children engaged.
The Southern Right whale has transformed the De Hoop Reserve in South Africa into one of the world’s premier land-based whale-watching areas. This marine protected area, a designated World Heritage Site, serves as one of the globe’s most crucial nurseries for this endangered mammal. During the winter months (July to November), Southern Right whales venture so close to the shoreline that guests at our Ocean House can relax on the unspoilt sand dunes or on our spectacular viewing deck, watching in awe as these magnificent creatures calve, blow, breach, and belly-flop. Our Morukuru Ocean House guide will direct you to the best viewing points, sharing expert knowledge and insights on these remarkable creatures.
As the day draws to a close, embrace the enveloping silence and the mesmerising horizon. As darkness falls, notice the soft twinkling beginning to stipple the sky, heralding the emergence of another heaven on earth. Gradually, the sky transforms into a playground of lights.
