Grootbos is a botanical nature reserve set up to manage and protect the fynbos, which include proteas, ericas and restios. Many species of plants are under threat or vulnerable to extinction. The fynbos needs fire to germinate its seeds and Grootbos manages this on a rotational basis burning every 10 to 15 years.
The reserve has two small hotels and also runs a foundation for the benefit of the local community. Each year the foundation runs a 12 month course for 12 students (aged 18-25) from difficult backgrounds, who are taught horticulture, IT and general workplace skills. The students undertake work placements with the two best students spending time at The Eden Project in Cornwall. There is a small farm growing vegetables which are sold to the hotel to help support the foundation.
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