Visit the Verlorenvlei Vallei
There is something about the Spirit of Place (Genius Loci) that resists corruption and degradation. I have seen such feminine staying power in the Verlorenvlei Valley, the Marico Valley, and in the South African Platteland as a whole. The legendary Chinese philosopher Lao Tse held that wisdom is like unto water: it takes the lowest course. So too with the spirit of a valley, which sustains life miraculously in the midst of outward vicissitudes.
The Verlorenvlei Vallei (Lost Vlei Valley in Afrikaans) is a peaceful estuary-valley on the Cape West Coast, with slow-flowing, chameleon-coloured waters emerging into the Atlantic Sea at Elandsbaai. The rustic hamlet of Redelinghuys, situated on the Verlorenvlei 25km inland from the coast, is an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of urban life. In the Verlorenvallei can be found abundant nature and animal life, scenic hiking trails, numerous rock art sites, and an authentic local culture of storytellers, artists, skilled professionals and nature guardians. We are an inclusive and loving community! Only two hours’ drive from Cape Town, the Verlorenvlei Vallei is waiting to be discovered anew.
As local artist Frederik van Bart once said when describing the Verlorenvallei to an outsider: “Dis die paradys daai.”
Accomodation Options and Tours in Redelinghuys
1. Wild West Coast
Situated in the rante above the family farm Papkuilsvlei, whose farming activities are environmentally sensitive, Wild West Coast offers visitors a chance to spend some magical time in the great outdoors at a custom-crafted campsite with comfortable sleeping options, at affordable rates. From the black eagle’s vantage of Wild West Coast, visitors can explore the splendours of the Sandveld via hiking trails and day-missions, or simply kick back and relax at the campsite. If you are looking for a scenic mix of comfort and nature, you have come to the perfect place.
http://www.wildwestcoast.co.za/
2. Reed Song Cottage
The eminently quaint Reed Song Cottage is situated on the first street of the village of Redelinghuys, and looks out spaciously upon the tranquil Verlorenvlei. It is the perfect setting to write, walk, paint, recharge, or simply rest. From the quiescent splendour of this authentic thatched retreat dating from the 1860s, you will be poised to discover more about the fascinating history, culture and nature of the village and broader area.
https://reedsongcottage.co.za/
3. Sandveld Songlines
Sandveld Songlines is Etienne van Bart’s nature-culture guiding project in the Verlorenvallei and wider Sandveld Biome. He is also able to accompany hikers to the nearby Cedarberge for further exploration. In co-operation with landowners, local experts and the municipality, Etienne is able to mould personalized tours in the region to showcase the unspoilt splendours of the Sandveld, West Coast and Cedarberg areas, including a stunning selection of Bushman rock art sites.
Local art and culture; San heritage and rock art sites; the quiet harmony of unspoilt nature…I am the man on the ground for your customized tour 🙂
The Zen Olympiad 