Swartberg Nature Reserve (Die Hel)

The Swartberg Nature Reserve protects the spectacular Swartberg mountains between the Great and Little Karoo, a World Heritage Site crossed by the historic Swartberg Pass. Hidden deep within it lies Gamkaskloof, better known as Die Hel, an isolated valley settled by farming families for generations and reachable only by a long, winding mountain road.

Die Hel is a place of profound quiet and history, where restored original farmhouses stand among fruit trees beside the Gamka River. Visitors come to hike, swim, learn the valley's story and disconnect entirely from the outside world.

Accommodation is a collection of restored self-catering cottages, including Lenie Marais, Snyman se Huis, Marais Cordier, Sankie Marais and smaller historic homes, each retaining the rustic character of this remarkable hidden valley. The access road requires careful, slow driving.