Sundew Conservation Cabin
Helping to conserve the fynbos of the Klein River Mountains
Nestled on a rocky outcrop between Phillipskop Peak and the main ridge of the Klein River Mountains sits our mountain hut, Sundew Cabin. From its deck, it has beautiful views down into the Hidden Valley and across to the Akkedisberg Pass. Inside its well-insulated walls, there is comfortable sleeping accommodation for up to 6 people: a double sleeper couch and two single bunk beds. Outside, there is a pit latrine. The nearby stream is seasonal, so a rainwater tank provides additional water, replenished by rooftop collection.
Conservation of the fynbos
Improving access to the mountain
- Sundew Cabin was built to support alien plant removal on the upper slopes of Phillipskop.
- Its location is crucial for combating the invasive hakea and pine species that threaten the fynbos ecosystem on the upper slopes of the reserve.
- Volunteer teams can use the cabin as an overnight base, facilitating alien clearing in the harder-to-reach areas of the reserve.
- By staying overnight, volunteers can begin their efforts refreshed and have shelter in case of inclement weather.
Getting away from it all
Available to our supporters
- Exclusive booking of Sundew Cabin for leisure is available to all our Friends of Phillipskop.
- Purchase your Friends of Phillipskop conservation permit today, to take advantage of this exciting offer!
- A rental fee of R600 per night for Sundew Cabin also applies.
Important Notes
Facilities and rules
- Bedding and Towels: Carry up your own; none are provided.
- Cleanliness: Leave the cabin as you found it. No trash or food should be left behind.
- Cooking Facilities: Bring your own gas stove and utensils. Fires are strictly prohibited.
- Lighting: Provide your own solar or battery-operated light source. No candles or paraffin lamps are allowed.
- Toilet Paper: Bring your own. Nothing else is to be put down the pit latrine.
- Water: Use the rainwater tank sparingly, especially during summer. The nearest perennial stream is 100m below the cabin.
By following these guidelines, you can help maintain Sundew Cabin as a resource for conservation.
Grateful thanks
& Acknowledgements
- The mountain cabin was built primarily for conservation work and was funded by a conservation grant from the German Carnivorous Plants Association (Gesellschaft für Fleischfressende Pflanzen or G.F.P.) with assistance from A Rocha South Africa in administering the grant. Particular thanks are also given to Ronald Mos, who designed and managed the project. The project was initiated in 2021 but with a variety of administrative and logistical hurdles, it took until winter 2024 to be completed More details about the cabin’s design and construction will be available soon.
