Your Own Private Manor- Mount Camdeboo
As we enter our second year of the Covid pandemic, and international travel still limited, Dossier has found the perfect space for your family to find a personalized refuge in nature.
A short drive from Graaff-Reinet, 14,000 hectares of malaria free reserve on the foot of the Sneeuberg Mountain Range you will find The Mount Camdeboo Private Game Reserve. The tranquil Camdeboo Manor, a four room private oasis, is ideal for family or friends to share. The Manor house is a traditional Cape Dutch style residence with a large patio, lovely gardens overlooking the hillside, and an inviting pool. At night, the lounge is yours, for long conversations or just watching the fire with a drink from their fully appointed bar.
The lodge is privately owned by visionary, Iain Buchanan, who has taken this once agricultural land and turned it back to its original state and into a reserve. Now one can have the big five experience, with White Rhino, Cheetah, Giraffe, Mountain Zebra and Antelope, Elephant, and array of birds.
Camdeboo has employed the most passionate game rangers, who know the story of every Elephant and Cheetah, for the most awe-inspiring tales.
Once settled in, the staff can assist with arranging many activities like a two and half hour hike in the Karoo landscape through the Cambedoo National Park. A full day tour of the Mount Zebra National Park, a 28,000 hectare grassland plateau with views of the majestic mountains. Two and half hour game drive through The Camdeboo National Park. A sundowner experience of The Valley Of Desolation – a geological formation of ancient volcanic rock. A walk to inspect Bushman artifacts and art at The Gondwanaland Fossil Tour.Then of course tours of Graaff-Reinet and Nieu Bethesda is essential. Lunch at The Drostdy Hotel is a must. It is best to stay for a few days, there is plenty to do. Factor in spa treatments, and just sitting taking in the splendor that the Karoo has to offer.
As for the food, expect gracious Karoo farm hospitality. Wholesome food, with ingridients either grown on the property or from neighboring farms. Vegan, Vegetarian, Halaal, Kosher options available. But be prepared to be overwhelmed with generous portions – breakfast, lunch, dinner and a high tea before the game drive. All prepared in the kitchen of the house, and one can pop in anytime to chat to the chef, maybe pick up some cooking tips...
Most visitors are returning guests - that says it all. It feels as if you are staying at a private home yet with impeccable service, for a total switch-off relax and wind down experience.
Mount Camdeboo also offers a Hillside Manor, a Courtyard Manor, Peppertree Cottage and tented camps.
