Cape Leopards Return to West Coast National Park After 170 Years

Photo credit: SANParks/Landmark Rewilding

Big news – the elusive Cape leopard has returned to the West Coast National Park after 170 years of extirpation. A photo was recently snapped on a remote camera trap, confirming that this big cat has recolonised this region of the Western Cape.  

We've been thrilled by this conservation headline, given how central our cottage is in the park. Now, there's no need to worry, just because the Cape leopards are roaming freely; it's still safe to visit. These predators are incredibly shy and elusive to humans, and they are constantly on the move. 

If you are lucky enough to spot one, give the animal a wide berth and respect the rarity of the sighting. That said, there are loads of other wildlife to spot, as the park is home to over 250 birds and 15 mammals. 

That's just one of the many reasons to book a stay at our West Coast holiday cottage, so keep reading to find out why Whalesong is so great for wildlife encounters and birdwatching experiences. 

Be Surrounded By South Africa's Gorgeous Flora and Fauna 

As we just mentioned, there is a vast amount of wildlife here, so our cottage is perfect for those looking to go birdwatching in the park, as you can see some of the following species: 

• African Black Oystercatchers 

• Curlew Sandpipers 

• Greater and Lesser Flamingos 

• Cape Gannets 

• Great White Pelicans 

The West Coast is also famous for its wildflowers, which bloom between August and September, perfect for a third term school holiday trip.  These can be seen in the exclusive Postberg Flower Reserve, where you can spot various hues of fynbos, succulent, bulbs, and daisy species, such as: 

• Vygies (Afrikaans for small figs) or midday flowers: There are over 2000 varieties of these in all kinds of colours, like pink, red, purple, orange, and white. 

• Candelabra flower: Named for its resemblance to a branched candlestick because of its stems of columns, this vibrant flower stands out in wildflower season. 

• Rooinaeltjie (Afrikaans for little red onion): This perennial bulbous plant can reach up to 30 centimetres and features darker red, crimson, and orange hues. 

Enjoy an Off-the-Grid Holiday 

Another terrific aspect of our cottage is how ideal it is for a digital detox getaway. Our cottage doesn't have Wi-Fi, a TV, and loud appliances like dishwashers or washing machines. 

This is to create the most authentic stay in nature, especially given the cottage's surroundings. You'll be able to wake up to birdsong and crashing waves, enjoy some restorative sleep and guilt-free naps, and avoid digital distractions, traffic, and other modern inconveniences.  

This is because you can enjoy a leisurely amble to the nearby beach, enjoy reconnecting with loved ones around the firepit, and take on some lovely hiking trails. 

Alternatively, it's also perfect for a romantic getaway with your significant other, especially for Valentine's Day (wink wink, you adventurous couples). Just imagine a night of stargazing and enjoying some great bubbly (P.S. we can arrange some award-winning Benguela Cove wines to be stocked in the cottage for you before arrival, upon request.)

A Sustainable Travel Experience 

As part of the collection owned by Penny Streeter and family, we prioritise sustainable travel experiences and strongly believing in leaving natural spaces as you find them:

• We are proud to be working with the Cape Leopard Trust to raise awareness of the endangered Cape Leopard.

• World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF) has awarded our sister property, Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate the top award for excellence as a Conservation Champion Winery. It is for exceptional commitment to the collective conservation of threatened habitat in South Africa's Succulent Karoo and the Cape Floral Kingdom as well as for outstanding dedication to environmentally responsible farming practices. 

• We practice Hannuwa; the gathering of good fortune through living in sustainable harmony with our natural environment, according to the ancient /Xam San philosophy. 

It's why our cottages use rainwater for the showers, washing up, and the toilets and why we have limited appliances, and why we use solar energy. You'll still be able to cook up a storm with a gas hob, a microwave, and a portable BBQ.  

Alternatively, we have some excellent restaurants and culinary experiences nearby, many of which use sustainable foraging methods, locally sourced ingredients, and freshly caught seafood.  

Bucket List Outdoor Activities

Last but definitely not least, is the multitude of outdoor activities the West Coast has to offer. This includes: 

• Sailing and Yachting – Charter a yacht or a sailboat, whether that's a 90-minute cruise or a 4-hour trip to Kraal Bay, deep inside the park's lagoon. 

• Bird-Watching Extravaganza – Enjoy some of the park's birdlife either through visiting one of the four bird hides or by booking a private bird-watching tour. 

• Kayaking in the Lagoon – Take on a guided kayak tour to encounter sea life and coastal birds and experience some stunning vistas. 

• Mountain Biking – The park has two mountain biking trails: The 13-kilometre Green Trail and the 17-kilometre Red Trail. 

Witness Local Wildlife Activity at Whalesong, Our Fantastic West Coast Accommodation

These are only a few reasons why it's definitely worth booking a stay at our cottage, one of the best options for West Coast accommodation on the beach (the reviews speak for themselves). 

So, if you're looking to get more in touch with nature, to unplug from a busy digital life, or simply for a luxurious few days in paradise (think Egyptian cotton linen, aromatherapy products, and thick white towels), please contact us at info@whalesongbeachcottage.co.za or 083 656 7314.