Why to love the Skilpad chalets in Namaqualand

By Roxanne Reid
There are just four chalets in the Skilpad section of the Namaqua National Park near Kamieskroon in the Northern Cape, but lots of reasons to love them. 

The Skilpad (tortoise) chalets are set apart in a landscape that’s naturally peaceful, just the sound of birds or the breeze. Two are set a little closer to each other, which is perfect if you’re a group of four sharing a holiday.

I’ve rarely seen SANParks chalets that are better maintained or more lovingly cared for by housekeeping staff. And here’s the kicker: they’re only R620 for two people (May 2017 prices).

​The views from the cottage at dawn are worth waking up for.

​In spring the environment turns into a colourful spectacle full of bright flowers. But I love the secret season – basically, any time apart from wildflower mania in August and September – when the park is peaceful and quiet.

There’s an aircon in the bedroom and a ceiling fan in the lounge for hot summer stays.

​The open-plan living room has a pullout couch-bed that sleeps two children or one adult.

You can sit and relax on the enclosed porch and dining area at the front, with windows that fold right back to let the outside in. 

The kitchen is well equipped, with both a microwave and a stove, as well as a fridge and any pot, pan or utensil you might need for self-catering. 

There’s an outdoor braai area with benches, and an indoor fireplace-cum-braai for cold winter evenings spent sipping red wine or hot chocolate.

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