Please welcome today's guest post, from DiePoort.com...
Die Poort is an ideal retreat, for peaceful and isolated tranquility in a magnificent mountain and river environment. The farm, at the end of a cul-de-sac, overlooks and includes the Gamka River where it leaves the Swartberg Mountain range after its journey of 23 km through Gamkapoort, the last 5 km of which fall within the boundaries of Die Poort. We are the southern neighbours of Gamkaskloof, also known as “The Hell,” although separated by 14 km of Gamkapoort.
Die Poort, as part of Matjiesvlei, displays a biodiversity that has been preserved to a large extent. Such biodiversity includes three world-famous plant biomes i.e. Succulent Karoo, Fynbos and Thicket. Moreover, the farm borders on an internationally-acknowledged and declared World Heritage Site (one of six in South Africa) that includes the Swartberg Nature Reserve and adjacent protected areas, totalling some 180 000 ha. At the instigation of the Gouritz Initiative, Die Poort was one of the first privately-owned properties, in 2007, to have concluded a biodiversity cooperation agreement with CapeNature. This is part of their Conservation Stewardship Programme, in terms of which we commit ourselves contractually to preserve 97% of the farm’s biodiversity, about 1220 ha out of the total of 1253 ha. In terms of conservation legislation, Die Poort was also declared a private nature reserve, in 2001.
In addition to the main house, there are 3 historic, self-catering guest cottages, resembling the type of dwellings in Gamkaskloof. Each has its own charm and beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and the river. Step back in time to the simpler way of life and truly unwind from the busy city life. It is an experience you will long remember. Among possible activities on the farm – in addition to just soaking up the tranquil atmosphere - are hiking, swimming, canoeing, mountain biking and bird watching. In 2003, part of the Land Rover G4 Challenge was held on the farm.
