We experienced early on in our lives how transformative it can be to set apart an extensive period and give our attention to the mystery of Christ in us. It is a path that one needs to follow patiently. Having other pilgrims on this same journey is a surprising gift. Conversations between the periods of silent contemplation take on a new depth. We aim to create an environment in which you can be intentional about nurturing the quiet beauty within, while being held by the natural beauty around us. This place does not demand of you but simply invites you to stay a while and be astonished. You will have both space for solitude and opportunity for connection. There will be a time to learn, a time to laugh, a time to play, a time to talk, a time to be still.
Spaces are limited to 10 people.
Imagine…
Imagine leaving all the distractions and routines behind and entering the tranquility of nature, where for the next few weeks, laughter, conversation, and exploring the mystery of Union with God will fill your days. The most meaningful experiences always include a harmony of contrasts – gaining by letting go, new life through death, a home-coming by leaving what is familiar. Our joyful expectation is that whatever might have hindered you will be dissolved and whatever is needed for the next chapter in your journey, will be revealed.
The first two weeks will include morning meditations followed by informal conversation. Most evenings will offer informative and inspirational teachings and the time between will be yours to enjoy as you please – there are beautiful hikes, wine tasting, horse riding etc. in the area. After that we will spend a few days in Cape Town before our wildlife safari experience in which you will get to enjoy the the magic of the African bush and the possibility to see the ‘big 5’ up close.
Itinerary
October 2024
Hermanus & Surrounds Day 1-7
We will meet you at at Cape Town International Airport. After everyone has gathered their bags, we will drive you to Hermanus along the beautiful coastline, stopping for lunch on the way. This week will be spent nestled in the beautiful Hemel and Aarde Valley situated on the outskirts of Hermanus. Directly translated from Afrikaans, Hemel-en-Aarde means ‘heaven-and-earth’. These fynbos-clad hills, overlooked by a series of towering Cape-fold mountains are home to some fifteen wineries, each growing relatively small volumes of grapes to produce individual and excellent wines. Known for their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Day 8-12
We exit the valley and move into our Hermanus home, where we continue our conversations, while enjoying the seafront. Hermanus is nestled in between the magnificent mountains and the blue ocean. The secluded, rock-sheltered coves and the long, pristine beaches are perfect for strolling, swimming and surfing and there are some amazing walks to be had in the mountains. We look forward to introducing you to our home town and besides some fun activities together, your days will be free to stroll the nearby cliff path, explore the town centre with its little shops and great restaurants or enjoy the beach.
Cape Town Day 13-15
We will return to our Mother City for three days. Cape Town is a modern, cosmopolitan city surrounded by nature. Centered around Table Mountain, one of the New 7 Wonders of the world, it is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning biodiversity, award-winning food and wine, and sheer variety of experiences on offer. Table Mountain, Cape Point, Kirstenbosch Gardens, shopping at V&A Waterfront, are a few of our options, depending on weather and group consensus.
Safari Adventure Day 16-21
We depart together from Cape Town Intl. Airport to Hoedspruit where we will begin our Safari experience. After our transfer from the airport, we will settle in at Buffelshoek where we will spend the next three days. Situated in the Manyeleti Game Reserve. Buffelshoek offers a balance between comfort and bushveld ambience and maintains a feeling of exclusivity with only five quaint two-sleeper thatch-roofed, canvass fronted tents with open-air en-suite bathrooms all on wooden decks. The next three days we will spend in the Timbavati Game Reserve at Brent’s Place in rustic farmhouse style cottages. This camp is only used by his family and friends and is a perfect way to experience the authentic African bush up close and personal. During your stay at both camps you will be treated with daily sunrise and sunset safaris with a guide in an open game viewing vehicle, which ensures excellent game sightings. The safaris give you an up-close encounter with the Big 5, other mammals, birds and the flora of this magic part of Greater Kruger. Between drives you will slow down to the pace of the bush with plenty of time for relaxation and fellowship.
Blyde River Canyon Day 22-23
Our last two nights together will be spent winding down while enjoying the vistas of the Blyde Canyon. It is the third largest canyon in the world and the largest ‘green canyon’ due to its lush subtropical foliage, with the deepest precipitous cliffs of any canyon on the planet. We will head to Hoedspruit airport after breakfast and fly to Johannesburg Intl. From there we will all fly back to our various homes, enriched by meaningful connection and filled to the brim with beautiful memories.
PRICE:
We can now confirm the price as R98,700 ($5,109) based on the exchange rate on the 6th of September. Because of exchange rates changes and small margins, payments will need to be made in Rands.
This price includes:
All accommodation throughout your stay, local transportation (including your flight across South Africa to Hoedspruit and your flight from Hoedspruit to Johannesburg), breakfasts daily, certain entrance fees in Cape Town.
All breakfasts are included. All meals during the safari are included. We will also explore some great restaurants where you will be responsible for your own bill. A light meal at a restaurant will cost on average between R100-R150, ($6-8) while larger meals like dinners are around R150 to R250, ($8-15). Occasionally, we want to treat you for a braai which is a South African version of a BBQ.
PLEASE NOTE:
- All prices are per person based on double occupancy. If you are attending on your own, but would like to make use of the ‘per person sharing rate’ we will do our best to match you up with another individual, otherwise a single occupancy surcharge will apply.
- Not Included: Flights to and from South Africa are not included in our price. Our trip will begin in Cape Town and end in Johannesburg, so your international flight should be booked into Cape Town and out of Johannesburg. We are available to help advise on your travel arrangements if needed. And some meals, as mentioned above, are not included.
- Travel and Health Documents: A passport valid for 6-months beyond the return travel date is required for all travelers. It is the responsibility of the passengers to check with the appropriate consulates and medical personnel to determine if visas are required and what health precautions and documents are necessary.
- Travel Insurance: It is each person’s responsibility to attain appropriate travel insurance
- Deposit and Final Payment: A 50% (R49,350) deposit is required by the 7th October 2023, with the balance of the payment due by the 12th January 2024. Bank details below.
- Cancellations: Deposits are fully refundable until the 20th December 2023.
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