So about 3 weeks ago I was asked to accompany a client to a venue in the Karoo for a venue reccee and event co-ordinators meeting. So – bright and early on the Monday morning myself and Sibylle Stehli head off in her little white ‘Be Free’ chariot. The trip was done in about 3 hours from Cape Town to Touwsrivier – and what a magical road trip it was.
The trip was over before we knew it – because as usual we jakked up a storm from start to finish – only stopping for the obligatory road-trip coffee at Vide in Worcester. I just knew from the beginning that this trip would be something special – number one – I’m a pretty private person – so being in close proximity with another person for a few days was bound to be interesting for me in the first place – but I needn’t have worried – Sibylle was a gas to be with – funny, light-hearted and interesting chats were held about the scenery, her life and her work as well as our hopes and dreams about the year ahead of us. We arrived at our destination Gecko Rock Private Nature Reserve at about 11am not too much worse for wear – in fact rearting to go.
I must at this point say – that as I pulled in through the big front entrance gates to Gecko Rock Private Nature Reserve my soul took a deep and soulful breathe. It felt like something internally changed gear and as we rode through the reserve’s grounds making our way to the main house and reception area – I truly understood the words “peace and tranquillity’. Not a sound outside – barring the Karoo morning breeze – nothing moved outside – just our little chariot along the dusty road…oh we did see the odd bird, bokkie and lizard – but all and all – you pretty much get the feeling that you’re all alone out there. And you know that pretty much had me trembling inside – not out of fear but perhaps a bit of ‘post traumatic release’ – all the stress and busyness was leaving my body and the only available replacement was nature, peace, tranquillity and the magic that is the Karoo.
Our host – Sharon Deal from the Who am I Foundation had pulled out all the stops by laying out a scrumptious but healthy lunch – and lovely cool drinks and wines. We chatted – getting to know each other while checking out the amazing decor and atmosphere in the dining room – it has a character of its own – and I loved it. Not pretentious, not over the top – simple, understated, yet homely and welcoming – pretty much just like the Karoo itself.
So what brought us to the Karoo… and what is the event? Well – Sharon Deal – together with a super-energizer bunny by the name of KaminTaute – had a dream of conceptualising a unique retreat offering to the wellness industry – a retreat facilitated by professional accredited coaches – underpinned by a tried and tested process and programme presented in one of the most soulful places in Africa – the Karoo and garnished with the most gorgeous and healthful organic and local produce and meats.
Our afternoon was spent planning the programme – which was done in record time – it’s amazing when something is just so right – and people click just how smooth something flows. We not only wrote the agenda but planned one or two of the sessions. What we have in the two facilitators is a qualified and accredited transformational coach and a qualified and experienced intuitive coach and Journey Practitioner. Both ladies are at the top of their game and are deeply committed to serving their communities to make a difference in this world.
We all went off with the farm dogs for an afternoon stroll – well – yours truly made it half way up the
bloody first hill and had to pledge the firth on her fitness levels – oh my word how embarrassing! The other two however motored up the hill and down the other side into the distance. I took the opportunity as a gift and grabbed my journal and spent the afternoon writing in a state of pure bliss *Note to self, “Get more bloody exercise Robyn!”
We all sat down to some sun downers and snacks in the huge Karoo lounge/dining room and many a story was shared – well into the late evening – at which time we decided we’d better do the chef’s food justice and eat a bite. Scrumptious – 5 star kos was served at the table – not unhealthy mind you – just right! We then got into our vehicles and went down to our chalet for the night – and I proceeded to fall in love. Ok – besides it being pitch dark – I mean there’s literally – you – the bush and the stars and moon…I was as they say ‘in my noppies’ as I arrived at the chalet. It’s beautiful. No expense spared – comfortable beds, fully kitted out and the best feature for me – the stoep with the big couch on it. I sat there with a glass of wine – contemplating life – until the coaches called me in for beddy-byes!
Early morning start for me – I sat on the stoep and watched the sun come up. Went for a little walk and took a video and then had a cup of coffee on the stoep just breathing in the beautiful views and thinking about my plans for myself for 2018. It was actually just so beautiful that I was choked up with emotion. The place does weird things to you.
Showers in the facilities a hop and a skip away from the chalet – showers with a view – just so divine! Hot water – glorious! Once dressed we went off exploring the whole reserve – and got back to a sumptuous breakfast of omelettes and toast and an amazing Cappuccino. That chef is well worth her weight in gold I must say!
We worked through a few loose ends doing a video or two and then said our goodbyes and headed back to Cape Town – it literally was a pit stop that felt like a lifetime. That seems to be what happens when you go to the Karoo – time stops and is freeze-framed into what really matters – connecting, resting, walking, conscious eating and introspective living. In short – this city slicker gives the venue huge thumbs up – the concept for this self-discovery retreat a definite high five and oh yes – the chef gets an Oscar Award! Now – are you joining us – because I’m sure you need a time out!
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