Geography and Roads:
Gamkaskloof represents one of the most hidden-away valleys in SA, formed by the cleavage caused by adjacent iron-ore and scaly sandstone formations in the Swartberg Mountain Range. The road into the valley below follows this cleft in the mountains and therefore is winding, narrow and contains a fair number of passes.
It is a trip not easily forgotten: the mountains, gorges, vegetation and clear air bedazzle the visitor. Although the road department always tries to keep the road in a good state, sudden mountain storms can cause it to become quite rough. The first 37 kilometers follows the contours of the mountains, but as the Kloof itself is reached the road forms a winding and spectacular pass leading to the valley floor far below. In the valley the road now passes through riverine shrubs and an abundance of thorn and wild olive trees.
History unfolds itself as old dwellings, the old school house and remnants of farming activity is passed. The Gamka River is crossed by a low water crossing and should be crossed with care. Our gate lies right at the end of this road—past Annatjie Joubert’s “Fonteinplaas”, across the Gamka River and past Cape Nature’s “Ouplaas”—a distance of approximately 20 kilometers on the valley floor.
We are aware that many visitors reach us by ordinary sedan cars, but we would definitely recommend a sturdy vehicle for peace of mind. When phoning for a reservation, please enquire about the state of the road and weather patterns. It is also not a good idea to try visiting Gamkaskloof on a day trip. Too much time is spent on driving in and no time really remains to experience the wonderful mood of the Kloof.
