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.
The cabin’s primary purpose is to support alien plant removal on the upper slopes of Phillipskop. Volunteer teams will use the cabin as an overnight base, allowing them to tackle harder-to-reach areas without the fatigue of a lengthy hike before starting their work. This location is crucial for combating the invasive hakea and pine species that threaten the fynbos ecosystem on the upper slopes of the reserve. By staying overnight, volunteers can begin their efforts refreshed and have shelter in case of inclement weather.
Usage Guidelines
Access to Sundew Cabin is a privilege reserved for those who contribute to the conservation work of Phillipskop in either of the following two ways:
1. Volunteer as an alien hacker at Phillipskop. This is the primary use for the cabin. Experienced volunteers (those who have actively participated in more than one of our monthly hacks) can reserve the hut for conservation work. Each stay requires a commitment to at least three hours of hacking per person per night.
2. Become a Friend of Phillipskop. Those wishing to use the cabin for leisure must purchase our annual conservation permit. A rental fee of R600 per night for Sundew Cabin also applies. Accompanying people will fall under the same rules as the Friends of Phillipskop Permit that was purchased.
Important Notes
- 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.
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.
