Gourikwa Reserve | Conference Venue | George

Gourikwa Reserve is one of the most unique private reserves along the South African coastline. With 5km of pristine coastline, a rich variety of indigenous fauna and flora and facilities ranging from top class accommodation to a beachfront chapel and a state of the art wedding facility.

Previously known as Reins Reserve, we have reverted to the original “Gourikwa” and have made major upgrades to the reserve.

Located in the heart of the scenic Garden Route, the 2000ha reserve is nestled between Mosselbay and Stillbay and is only a 60min drive away from the George Airport. This is truly a gem in the Garden Route crown.

Long before Gourikwa had a name, it was home to the indigenous people of South Africa. Archaeologists believe that the Khoikhoi were the builders of the fishtraps along the coast, some dating back 4000 years.

These can be found among the boulders beyond the chapel.

As settlers moved into the interior during the 1700’s, farms were established along the coast. It had been a very isolated farming community until the late 70’s.

In 1932, the coast was placed on the map, when the SS Haliartus ran aground on the rocks at Yztervarkfontein. Cyanide for mining purposes was part of the very rich cargo.

The leaked cyanide created havoc along the coast, killing fish, dolphins and all other sea life in the vicinity. A full report of the wreck can be found in the book Shipwrecks and Salvage in South Africa by Malcolm Turner.

In 1964 a lighthouse was established on the rocky outcrop on the southwestern border of the reserve, called Ystervarkpunt. The steel structure was replaced by a concrete one in 2006.

It stands 51m tall and is one of the youngest lighthouses in the country.