About Rogge Cloof Private Nature Reserve

Rogge Cloof, meaning “rye ravine,” traces its origins back to 1756 when Joachim Scholtz, the son of German and Nordic immigrants to Africa, acquired this historic land.

For over 250 years, the rugged beauty of Rogge Cloof has been shaped by the hands of various owners, each nurturing its development through challenges such as lions, droughts, snow, and harsh winds.

Situated at an altitude of 1,400 to 1,700 meters in the heart of the Karoo, Rogge Cloof is part of the Roggeveld plateau, an area known for its sweeping plains and crystal-clear skies, making it an ideal dark sky reserve for stargazing. Named after the wild rye once abundant here, the Roggeveld is a natural treasure, home to awe-inspiring mountain ranges and rich biodiversity.

ROOM TYPES

Orion Suites: Inclusive accommodation

The 8 Orion Suites are luxurious open-plan accommodation, perfect for couples seeking comfort and tranquillity.

Each suite features a king-size bed, a cozy sitting and reading area, and a closed-circulation fireplace for added warmth. For your convenience, a coffee station with a plunger, coffee, and tea.

The spacious bathroom includes a large shower, toilet, and double basins with views overlooking the valley. Safe parking is available right next to your unit.

Your stay includes a full breakfast and a three-course dinner served at the Rittersaal Dining Hall, ensuring a complete and relaxing experience.

Self-catering options:

The self-catered accommodations provide a comfortable and welcoming retreat for families or groups looking to experience the beauty of the Karoo. Fully powered by solar energy, each space offers an eco-friendly, off-the-grid stay without sacrificing modern comforts.

With no TV, this is a place to truly unplug—swap screen time for stargazing, quiet walks, or long conversations around the braai. Whether you’re gathered around the fireplace on a chilly evening or enjoying the fresh air outside, it’s an opportunity to slow down and reconnect. For those who need to stay connected, uncapped, free Wi-Fi is available.

Surrounded by vast open landscapes, the farm provides a safe environment for exploring on foot or by bike. Take a morning stroll with a coffee in hand, cycle along winding dirt roads, or simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere. The reserve and Eco-Village are enclosed by electric fencing, offering a secure space where you can fully relax and take in the surroundings.

HOTEL FEATURES AND ACTIVITIES

• Wine Tasting
• Stargazing and Astrophotography
• Guided Cheetah Tracking
• History Drive and Walk
• Farm Dam Swimming
• Vineyards and Wine Cellar
• Rittersaal Dining Hall
• Adventure Centre
• Spaceport Karoo Dark Sky Reserve
• Astronomy Research
• The Hothouse

Features

Additional Activities

• SALT/SAAO: South Africa Large Telescope: daily tours (10h30 / 14h30) to the largest telescope in the Southern Hemisphere. About 50 minutes from the lodge through the town of  Sutherland.
• Sutherland Planetarium (various shows daily) in Sutherland.
• Walk through town of Sutherland