Introduction to Bellevue Forest Reserve
Bellevue Forest Reserve is a malaria-free 2500ha private game reserve in the Greater Addo area of South Africa, near the mountain-top town of Paterson and a short distance from the Addo Elephant National Park. The scenic reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffe, buffalo, leopard, and elephant. It also features a variety of guided drives and walks, with the giraffe tracking walk experience a highlight. Birdwatching opportunities are excellent with an impressive species list.
The History of Bellevue Forest Reserve
Bellevue Forest Reserve was originally established in 1987 by a group of conservationists who wanted to create a safe haven for South Africa’s wildlife. The rich and incredibly diverse Albany thicket supports an enormous variety of fauna and flora. The reserve was initially home to a small herd of giraffe but has since grown to include a number of other animal species, including buffalo, leopard, elephant, zebra, kudu, meerkat and many more. This family-owned destination prides itself on exceptional, personalised service and attention to detail. At the heart of Bellevue’s operations is the beneficiation and upliftment of neighbouring communities along with continual expansion of wildlife conservation areas.
The wildlife of Bellevue Forest Reserve
The wildlife of Bellevue Forest Reserve is one of its most popular attractions. Visitors can see a variety of animals, including giraffe, buffalo, leopard, elephant, zebra, and many more. The reserve is also home to a variety of bird species, including eagles, owls, and kingfishers.
There is a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy at Bellevue Forest Reserve. Guided game drives are the most popular activity and offer visitors a chance to see the reserve’s own wildlife up close. In addition, day trips to the nearby Addo Elephant National Park are offered. Guided bush walks are a great way to explore the reserve’s natural beauty, including the highly popular giraffe tracking on foot, and birdwatching is excellent. Solitude and serenity abound in the beautiful mountain-top lodge garden with sweeping views over the valley towards to coast. A range of additional adventure activities and excursions can be tailored, including spa treatments, Karoo dining, helicopter flips and coastal /marine safaris at the Cape Recife Nature Reserve.
The Accommodation at Bellevue Forest Reserve
Bellevue Forest Reserve offers two types of accommodation. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious, fully catered family-friendly lodge with stunning views, in a secluded setting, or a wildly adventurous, romantic stay in an open-air camp deep in the reserve, you’ll find that Bellevue Forest Reserve can deliver.
The elegant Elephants Lodge is the luxurious option, its elevated position offering champagne air and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The lodge has a variety of amenities, including en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and private balconies. Fully catered with excellent local cuisine, family-friendly and with a communal genuine farm-style mineral pool to take the edge off hot summer days.
The reserve also has a wild, adults-only option called the Stargazer Camp for adventurous souls seeking a genuine African experience. The unfenced camp is located in a secluded part of the reserve, deep in the natural vegetation. The open-air camp has a variety of facilities, including beautifully made-up beds under mosquito nets, a bush toilet and shower, and a communal dining area where butlers prepare delicious meals around a campfire. A night under the stars in the open bush is truly unforgettable. Bellevue Forest Reserve is malaria-free, so, whether you’re looking for a luxurious budget-friendly getaway, or a uniquely wild experience, you’re sure to find the perfect option at Bellevue Forest Reserve.
How to Get to Bellevue Forest Reserve
Bellevue Forest Reserve is located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, about an hour’s drive from Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth). The reserve is easily accessible by car on excellent tar roads and there is also a shuttle service available from Gqeberha, which has a regional airport. View on Google Maps
Conclusion
Bellevue Forest Reserve is a beautiful and unique destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the wild beauty of South Africa. With its variety of wildlife, activities, and accommodation options, Bellevue Forest Reserve is the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature.