Sonop Guesthouse
Contact Mr Vonkie Claassen or Elizabeth Claassen:
027-541-1341

Cultural Camp
Contact Mr Vonkie Claassen or Elizabeth Claassen:
027-541-1341

ATTRACTIONS

Paulshoek, in the middle of the Kamiesberge, is a patchwork of small bushes, sand, rocks, stones, and great granite domes characteristic of this semi-arid area. The vegetation of the area is characterised as the so-called 'Namaqualand Broken Veld' and is comprised mostly of dwarf karroid and leafy succulent shrubs. From late August until October, brightly coloured flowers dye the sparsely watered valleys, creating a paradise for photographers and flower enthusiasts.

Local culture is represented by traditional cooking, dances and women who show you how to make reed huts, kappies, and cure animal skin. On request, the local crafts men will make you a riempie chair on which you can sit listening to the children's choir or local music.

Guided tours through the mountains will soon be set up, but the area is also easy to explore on your own. Go hiking or discover the area with your own mountain bike. You will probably come across people carrying wood back to Paulshoek on their heads or in donkey carts. A ride on one of the donkey carts is a lovely way to enjoy the spectacular valleys and hills around Paulshoek.

GETTING THERE

Paulshoek is a small settlement in the beautiful Kamiesberge between Garies and Springbok. It can be reached by turning off from Garies and taking the Leliefontein road via the Studer's Pass or from Kamieskroon via Leliefontein and Witwater. You do not need a 4x4 to reach Paulshoek, but the access roads are gravel and it is necessary to drive slowly.

Sonop Guest house offers self-catering facilities with a lovely view from both sides.

Alternatively, set up your tent at the community-run Kliphoek camping site just outside the village or sleep in a traditional Nama shelter called matjieshuis. The campsite has toilet and barbeque facilities. It also has water although it is advisable to bring your own supply as the area is short of this natural resource. By prior arrangement, the locals will prepare traditional food at the camp cooking-site. Two guesthouses owned by families in the village accommodate you warmly if you prefer to sleep in a room with four walls.