De Kelders Accommodation

De Kelders is Dutch for "the caves" and describes a residential area on the shores of Walker Bay that is, quite literally, home to the Southern Right Whale. Between July through August this is where they come to calve and they come right up to within a few metres of the rocks. Just 25 minutes from Hermanus and 5 minutes from Gansbaai, De Kelders is largely peaceful and undisturbed and despite its attractions, has managed to remain immune to large scale tourism.

A number of caves penetrate into the rock formations under the houses of De Kelders, the most famous of which is Klipgat Cave, just outside of De Kelders in the Walker Bay Nature Reserve, where some of the oldest findings of modern man have been discovered. Follow the 7km Klipgat Trail along the coast from Gansbaai harbour to the cave. Waters are treacherous in the area and currents strong, so this isn't swimming country but breathtaking stretches of beach are wonderful for walking and you can snorkel and scuba dive.

De Kelders, located near Gansbaai in the Western Cape, is known for its stunning coastal scenery, whale watching opportunities, and fascinating caves.

Here are five things to see and do in and around De Kelders:

1. De Kelders Caves: These ancient limestone caves are a significant archaeological site with evidence of early human habitation. The most famous is Klipgat Cave, which offers guided tours that reveal its rich history and stunning views of Walker Bay.

2. Whale Watching: De Kelders is one of the best land-based whale watching spots in the world. From June to November, southern right whales come close to the shore, and visitors can often see them breaching and playing from the cliffs.

3. Walker Bay Nature Reserve: This reserve offers beautiful hiking trails with breathtaking coastal views, diverse flora and fauna, and secluded beaches. It's perfect for nature enthusiasts and those looking to explore the unspoiled beauty of the region.

4. Shark Cage Diving in Gansbaai: Just a short drive from De Kelders, Gansbaai is famous for shark cage diving. Experience the thrill of seeing great white sharks up close in their natural habitat with one of the many tour operators in the area.

5. Platbos Forest: This ancient indigenous forest, located near De Kelders, is the southernmost forest in Africa. It offers peaceful walking trails, a chance to learn about native tree species, and opportunities for birdwatching and connecting with nature.

These attractions provide a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and historical significance, making De Kelders a fascinating destination for visitors to the Western Cape.