Guppy Huys

In all that we do, we try to have as light a touch as possible on the environment while still providing a comfortable and relaxing stay.

The eco-wood deck is manufactured from recycled plastic rather than unsustainably harvested hard woods. As much as possible we choose for environmentally friendlier products, including the Afriearth shampoos, soaps and other amenities.

The solar geysers provide most of our hot water and this is supplemented by an electric boiler. If at any point you need more hot water you can press the red buttons on the far left of the controllers in the cupboard in the third bedroom (two single beds). This will switch on the electric supplementary heaters. They turn off again when they reach 55 degrees.

We are fortunate that De Kelders does not have a water shortage or any water restrictions, but nonetheless we try to minimize water wastage.

The lighting at Guppy Huys is also fitted with low-energy LED lighting and the slow combustion fireplace is designed to optimize heat while reducing the amount of wood used. All of our new appliances, like the dishwasher, oven and refrigerator are A rated (or better) for low energy consumption.

Gansbaai was chosen as the most responsible destination for tourism by the Responsible Travel organisation and website, and we are proud to be part of this community.

You can help by ensuring you turn off all lights when you leave Guppy Huys and avoiding water waste whenever possible. In a place of such amazing natural beauty, conservation just makes sense.

Surrounded by nature
The house is also surrounded by many different types of natural fynbos. We are delighted to have such a bounty of nature directly surrounding us. We do all we can to not disturb this natural environment, and encourage our guests to do the same.

The area surrounding Guppy Huys is home dozens of species of birds. Other nearby residents include dassies, tortoises, mongooses and a variety of lizards. On rare occasions, we have even seen a Cape Genet, a cape otter and small bokke. The deck also provides the pefect view for the Southern Right Whales that live in the bay during their mating and birthing season (June to November). Additionally, we often see dolphins and the occasional seal.

The South African Reforestation Trust
While we have tried to reduce our impact to a minimum, we have also partnered with Trees for Tourism so guests can easily offset the emissions of their travel and other activities through a certified tree planting programme in a nearby indigenous forest. You can sponsor the planting of one tree for just R130, and you will receive a personalised certificate of offset.