Welcome - Erika 27 B&B

Dana Bay Conservancy

Liezel Niemack — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0200

Conservation status was given to Dana Bay on 27 May 1998. Town buildings were erected and designed around the dispersion of Fynbos seeds and the known movement of the animals so as not to infringe on or disrupt nature. All the animals in the conservancy are protected, and visitors are requested to take extra care when driving in Dana Bay, to ensure they do not injure any animals accidentally.

In this article, we thought we’d take some time to explore the fauna and flora indigenous to the Dana Bay Conservancy and why it is a special attraction for visitors travelling the Garden Route.

A wide variety of Fynbos and unique flower species call Dana Bay home, such as the Eulophia speciosa, Gloriosa superba and Crinum moorei. Image courtesy of Marius Müller.

The Natural Landscape of Dana Bay Conservancy

The Dana Bay Conservancy, located in Mossel Bay, is a place where animals have the right of way and where the local community works tirelessly to protect and conserve the local fauna and flora. Bushbuck, Grysbok, mongoose, and Cape Spur Fowl roam freely in Dana Bay due to its conservancy status, and the prolific bird life, which includes a colony of black oyster catchers and over 85 other bird species, adds to the tranquillity and beauty of the coastline and incredible views of beach and horizon.

Witnessing the African Black Oyster Catcher at Dana Bay beach is a rare treat, as there are only approximately 6,700 of these birds remaining in the wild.

Many bird species live along the rocky coastline, including cormorants and gulls. Visitors who are lucky enough may even see the elusive African Paradise Flycatcher, a bird species known for its bright green plumage and distinct call.

The high rate of endemism adds to the uniqueness of this level of biodiversity. A plant species, such as fynbos, is considered endemic if it grows nowhere else in the world except in a specific geographic location. This is true for approximately 70% of the fynbos species in the Cape Floral Kingdom. The fynbos attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees, insects, and birds with long beaks like the Cape Sugarbird, Orange-breasted Sunbird, and African Fish Eagle. The Cape Sugarbird can visit over a hundred plants per day, which greatly aids fynbos pollination.

Dana Bay Conservancy's fauna is equally diverse, with several animal species making their home here with us. The Southern Right Whale, which migrates to the area during the winter months to calve and mate, is one of the most iconic animals in the area. Visitors can see these majestic creatures from the comfort of the shore, as the whales swim close to the coastline. Other marine life includes the bottle-nose dolphin, seals, and a wide variety of fish species.

A Southern Right Whale breaching out of the water. Dolphins playing in the early morning surf. Image courtesy of Oystercatcher trail.

The area also has a number of historical and cultural sites. It is rich in history from the Khoisan people who settled here, and archeological discoveries that date back nearly 175,000 years.

Experience the awe of standing at Point of Human Origins and visit this world renowned archaeological site with early evidence for modern human behaviour. Image courtesy of Point of Human Origins.

Apart from its natural beauty and diverse wildlife, Dana Bay Conservancy is a special place because of its focus on conservation and sustainability. The local community has come together to protect and preserve the area’s natural beauty, and visitors can see the results of their hard work in the well-maintained trails and pristine beaches. In addition, there are several educational programmes, which are designed to teach visitors about the area’s unique flora and fauna and the importance of conservation.

Tourism contributes to the preservation of these resources by providing financial support for conservation initiatives. Tourism can also help to protect the natural resources found in Dana Bay Conservancy for future generations by raising awareness about the importance of conservation.

Spotted Genet, Bosbok, African Porcupine and Cape Grey Mongoose.

Ways to Protect Dana Bay Conservancy
You can help protect Dana Bay Conservancy and the Garden Route in many ways. Here are just a few of them:

1. Be a responsible tourist. When visiting Dana Bay or any other natural area, take your rubbish with you when you leave and stick to designated walking trails.
2. Volunteer your time. There are many organizations that work to protect Dana Bay Conservancy and the Garden Route. You can help by volunteering your time to one of these groups.
3. Donate money to conservation organisations. Organisations working to protect Dana Bay Conservancy and the Garden Route rely on donations to continue their work. You can help by donating money to one of these groups.
4. Speak up for conservation. Help raise awareness about the importance of protecting Dana Bay Conservancy and the Garden Route by speaking up for conservation in your community and beyond.

When visiting Dana Bay please make sure to keep an eye out for 40km/h speed limit on all the residential streets, excluding Flora Road, Heide Road, and Malva Road.

Conclusion

Visitors on the Garden Route should not pass up the chance to visit the Dana Bay Conservancy. With its rugged coastline, unspoiled beaches, and diverse wildlife, the area is a sight to behold that will leave visitors in awe. It is a natural haven where visitors can experience nature in its purest form, and it is a must-see for anyone traveling the Garden Route.

Erika27 Bed & Breakfast is perfectly positioned so that guests can easily access all amenities, eateries, and activities while still being able to enjoy Dana Bay's serene beauty. Book your stay with us today!

Animals found in Dana Bay Conservancy:

Cape Grey Mongoose: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_gray_mongoose
Cape White Eye: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_white-eye
African Black Oyster Catcher: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/African_oystercatcher
Southern Right Whale: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_right_whale
Cape Sugarbird: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_sugarbird
Cape Spur Fowl: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_spurfowl
Orange-breasted Sunbird: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orange-breasted_sunbird
African Fish Eagle: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/African_fish_eagle
African Paradise Flycatcher: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/African_paradise_flycatcher
Spotted Genet: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genet_(animal)
Cape Bushbuck: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_bushbuck
Cape Grysbok: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_grysbok
African Porcupine: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crested_porcupine
Rock Hyrax: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rock_hyrax
Cape Fur Seals: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brown_fur_seal

Special thanks to Vincent Surics from Dana Bay Nature / Danabaai Natuur Facebook Group | https://www.facebook.com/groups/132876417212025

The Best Garden Route Golf Courses

Liezel Niemack — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0200

Simola Golf Estate
George - Garden Route
Simola Golf Estate is one of the top golf courses on the Garden Route. The course is set on the Simola hilltop with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The fairways are lined with trees and there are plenty of water features, making it a challenging and scenic course. One of only three Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses in Africa and the first to be designed of those three.

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The course boasts an unusual configuration with five par 5 and five par 3 holes, with four tees to choose from.

Kingswood Golf Estate
George - Garden Route
Kingswood Golf Estate is a great choice for golfers looking for a relaxing and scenic golfing experience. The course is situated in the beautiful town of George, surrounded by mountains and forests. The design is inspired by the Home of Golf, St Andrews (The Old Course) in Scotland with its Links style open fairways, undulating greens and traditional pot bunkers. There is no other course in South Africa like it, which makes it a ‘must play’ if you are travelling in the area. The course itself is challenging yet enjoyable, with stunning views of the surrounding area.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE

If you ask a local, they will tell you that Kingswood has the best greens on the Garden Route and this is one of the main reasons why it is often frequented by the Sunshine Tour Players when they are not on tour.

Pinnacle Point Golf Club
Mossel Bay - Garden Route
Pinnacle Point Golf Club offers stunning views, challenging holes, and an impressive design. The course is located on the edge of a cliff, so you can expect some amazing views of the Indian Ocean. Pinnacle Point has twice been named Africa’s Best Golf Course and South Africa’s Best Golf Course, in 2022 and 2020, at the World Golf Awards. The layout is also very challenging, with narrow fairways and fast greens. If you're looking for a great game of golf, Pinnacle Point is definitely worth a visit.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE

Several of the holes at Pinnacle Point are amazing in terms of wow factor, and even when you’re playing inland you still enjoy wonderful views of the Indian Ocean.

Mossel Bay Golf Club
Mossel Bay - Garden Route
The linksy Mossel Bay course straddles the Cape St Blaize Peninsula, five kilometres from the lighthouse at the point, and from its high position, it has glorious views over the Indian Ocean. The club’s slogan for many years has been “You can see the sea from every tee.” The course is an easy walk and very playable from tee to green for all golfers, even if you have just taken up the game. The beautiful views of the Indian Ocean or the Springbuck roaming on the course might distract you, but they will most definitely leave you with lasting memories.

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The course is an easy walk and very playable from tee to green for all golfers, even if you have just taken up the game.

Pezula Championship Golf Course
Knysna - Garden Route
In the Garden Route, there are few golf courses as good as the Pezula Championship Golf Course. It is a par 72, 18-hole course that extends over 7,000 yards. The course has been designed by Gary Player and offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean. It is a challenging course that is suitable for all levels of golfers. There are also a number of facilities available at the club including a pro shop, driving range, and putting green.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE

Guests are offered an unforgettable Knysna golf experience on this award-winning golf course, which offers sweeping spectacles of fairways and greens, rolling through the pristine Southern Cape landscape.

George Golf Club
George - Garden Route
The George Golf Club is home to an 18-hole course that has been host to numerous prestigious tournaments over the years. One of the oldest courses in South Africa, the Clubhouse is a unique experience and is sure to be enjoyed by all. This course is designed to provide players of all levels with a challenging and enjoyable round of golf. The club also boasts a state-of-the-art clubhouse, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

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Golf Digest International rated George Golf Club 10th in SA 2019.

Oubai Golf Course
Herold's Bay - Garden Route
Oubaai is a stay-and-play destination with the first Ernie Els signature course in South Africa. It’s a beautiful modern links-style course without trees on a headland above the Indian Ocean. Two interesting aspects of the design are firstly the out-and-back routing – due to the clubhouse being positioned close to the ocean – and secondly that there are five par 5s and five par 3s. It’s renowned for its excellent conditioning. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Oubai Golf Course is sure to provide an enjoyable and challenging round of golf.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE

Golfers have wide fairways at which to aim though, and the challenge lies more in the approach shots to relatively small greens.

Goose Valley Golf Club
Plettenberg Bay - Garden Route
This superb golf club offers a splendid Gary Player designed 72-par, 18-hole signature golf course in the heart of the Garden Route. The course offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and is surrounded by indigenous fynbos vegetation. The unique sitting of the golf course on a sand dune allows for easy draining of the course and provides the perfect base for year-round play, even after heavy rains. With its challenging layout and immaculate greens, Goose Valley is a true test for any golfer.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE

The Goose Valley Golf Club has a magnificent 72-par course, state-of-the-art driving range, elegant clubhouse with restaurant & bar and a well-stocked pro shop.

5 Romantic Things To Do in Mossel Bay

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0200

1. Gin Tasting
Gin tasting is popular in Mossel Bay, and the Cape Saint Blaize Artisanal Distillery is a must-see for gin enthusiasts. This distillery, located in the heart of Mossel Bay, offers a one-of-a-kind gin tasting experience that highlights the beauty of the region's natural ingredients. Visitors can sample a variety of gin blends made from locally sourced botanicals such as fynbos and coastal herbs, each with its own flavour profile.

The distillery is housed in a beautiful, historic building, and the tasting room is furnished with vintage furniture, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The knowledgeable staff will walk you through the gin tasting process, explaining the distillation process as well as the ingredients used to make each gin. Visitors can also buy bottles of their favourite gin blends as a souvenir. Overall, the Cape Saint Blaize Artisanal Distillery provides a one-of-a-kind and enjoyable gin tasting experience, making it a must-see in Mossel Bay.

Cape Saint Blaize Artisanal Distillery is a must-see for gin enthusiasts.

2. Couples Spa Day
For couples looking for a romantic getaway, a couples spa day in Mossel Bay can be a luxurious and rejuvenating experience. Mossel Bay is an ideal destination for couples seeking rest and relaxation, thanks to its tranquil surroundings and choice of facilities. A couples spa day may include a variety of treatments aimed at pampering and rejuvenating both partners. There's something for everyone's taste and preference, from full-body massages to facials and body wraps.

A couples spa day can also include romantic couples' treatments, such as a couples massage, in which partners can unwind and bond over a shared experience. After a day of pampering, couples can relax with a leisurely meal or a sunset walk along the beach, strengthening their bond and creating memories to last a lifetime. Overall, a couples spa day in Mossel Bay is ideal for couples looking to rejuvenate, reconnect, and enjoy a romantic getaway.

The La Vita Spa at Pinnacle Point features four treatment rooms, including two couples' massage rooms.

3. Beach Picnic
Pack a picnic and head to one of Mossel Bay's many beautiful beaches for a day in the sun, surrounded by the sounds of the ocean and the scent of salt water in the air. Pick a spot on the soft, sandy beach and spread out your blanket. You'll feel the stress of everyday life melt away as you enjoy a leisurely lunch together, surrounded by nothing but the beauty of nature.

Mossel Bay's beaches have something for everyone, whether you want to relax in the sun or explore the tide pools and rock formations along the shore. Having a romantic picnic is a wonderful way to make lasting memories while spending quality time with your significant other.

Erika 27 B&B offers a variety of picnic basket options to suite everybody's taste.

4. Nature Walk
Nature walks in Mossel Bay provide a one-of-a-kind opportunity to appreciate the wondrous beauty of this coastal city. Mossel Bay, with its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, is an ideal location for nature lovers to explore the outdoors. Nature walks in Mossel Bay offer a variety of experiences for hikers of all levels, from well-maintained trails to rugged terrain.

On the fringes of Erika27 B&B is the Dana Bay Conservancy. A nature walk in the Dana Bay Conservancy is an ideal romantic activity in Mossel Bay. The Dana Bay Conservancy, with its diverse and impressive natural scenery, provides a unique opportunity for couples to connect with nature and with each other. The conservancy is home to a diverse range of wildlife and flora, something special for couples to explore together.

The Oystercatcher 1-day trail is perfect for time-bound hikers or for locals to enjoy a day out in nature.

5. Sailing charter
A visit to Mossel Bay is not complete without sailing on the 40-foot Catamaran, Kiyana. This is a unique and breathtaking experience as you take in the stunning coastline, diverse marine life, and Indian Ocean waters. The Kiyana sails around Seal Island, the Point of Mossel Bay, and then back into the harbour. The vessel's experienced crew will ensure that your sailing experience is both enjoyable and memorable.

On a sailing charter with the Kiyana, you can experience the tranquility of the open ocean while taking in the sensational views of the surrounding coastline. With vast areas to relax and soak up the sun, you can also go snorkelling (weather dependent) and discover the vast water underworld. What a beautiful and romantic way to end a day spent with the one you love, watching the sun set below the horizon while enjoying sunset cocktails.

Charter Kiyana for a romantic sunset cruise to remember.

Mossel Bay is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. With its stunning landscape, beautiful beaches, and a variety of romantic activities, you and your partner will have an unforgettable experience.