History of “Die Hel”

Gamkaskloof or "Die Hel" as it has become known, is a hidden valley, deep in the heart of the formidable Swartberg Mountain Range, between Oudtshoorn and Prince Albert. The fertile valley runs in an east-west direction and is approximately 20 km long and 600 meters wide. The Kloof gets its name from the Khoisan word for Lion - Gamka - also the name of the river that enters the valley from the north. There are about 153 species of bird-life in Gamkaskloof, even the fish eagle makes its appearance from time to time. Wildlife includes - Klipspringers, Grey Rhebuck, Rooikat, Porcupines, Leopards. The Valley features the Gamka River, Campsites, Picnic Sites, several historic houses and outbuildings, a school, a cemetery, an old Norse watermill, a landing strip, and curious history, plus a local restaurant and shop.

The earliest inhabitants of the valley were the San Bushmen. In the early 1830’s the first Boer (Farmer) wandered into the valley and finding it fertile with abundant water made it his home. Other families followed namely Cordier, Mostert, Marais, Nel, Snyman, and Joubert. They farmed and lived in comparative isolation for about 130 years. Although isolated they maintained a good standard of living. Education in the valley consisted of a school for the local children and church services were held in the school by the schoolmaster or teacher. The Donkey played a very important role in the Gamkasklower’s lives because they transported all their products & food via the ladder to the outside world.

In 1958 the first car was brought into the valley through the Gamka River gorge. In 1962 a road was built into the valley (constructed by Koos van Zyl).

This facilitated communication with the outside world and was the main reason for the exodus of the youth. The older folks had to follow. The last remaining farmer left in 1991, leaving the valley with no permanent residents.

This brings us to the Farm Mooifontein, owned by Annetjie Joubert (neé Mostert). She is the only remaining "born and bred" inhabitant that has retained property in Gamkaskloof and came back permanently in 1998. Annetjie, Ben (husband), Piet(son), and his wife Marinette, skillfully converted the original farmstead into comfortable guesthouses, they have a caravan park, camping sites, and the only Kiosk and Licensed Restaurant in Gamkaskloof.

This valley is one of the most historical places in the world, still having many untold stories and surely a few secrets never to be known.

email: info@gamkaskloof.co.za

Website: www.gamkaskloof.co.za