
An Ayurvedic retreat aimed at creating a more conscious and environmentally sustainable society.
An Ayurvedic retreat aimed at creating a more conscious and environmentally sustainable society.
Tula Retreat is more than just a place; it's a sanctuary of conscious living and sustainable practices.
Our mission is to guide you towards a life that harmonizes with nature, fostering a more sustainable and environmentally aware society.
Get ready for transformative experiences, mindfulness, and a deep connection with the world around you.
The Little Karoo will leave you feeling in awe of the magic around you, at peace with life as it is and inspired by how precious each moment truly is.
Awake to the crisp, clean air of this valley, abundant with Spekboom. Enjoy your own private Wood-fired Hot Tub. Sleep under the vast expanse of twinkling starlight.
Return to the clarity of your purpose.
Tula Retreat is located on the water's edge of the Calitzdorp dam in the Western Cape and offers quality self-catering accommodation ideal for couples, families, or friends, accommodating groups of 4 maximum. Pre-packed meals in a traditional South African ‘Skof-Tin’ can be ordered and collected in Calitzdorp town on your way to Tula. It is the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway. What sets us apart is the privacy the location offers. You are the only guests at the establishment.
The Jala Tent accommodates 2 guests. The bedroom is furnished with a king-size XL bed, and its en-suite bathroom is fitted with a bath and washbasin, opening up to a patio with breathtaking views. There is also an outdoor shower. The unit (including the patio) is approximately 80 sq m. Biodegradable toiletries are provided.
The open-plan living area features a comfortable couch with a fireplace, overlooking the beautiful natural surroundings. There is a kitchenette in the tent for tea and coffee. Relax and enjoy the view in the wood-fired hot tub. There is no electricity inside the unit, only LED lights, making it perfect for reconnecting with one another off the grid.
The Vayu Caravan is located approximately 100m from the tent. It’s furnished with a double bed and can be booked for an additional two persons at an extra cost. There is a also a bathroom with a shower and a private safari-style bush kitchen located at the caravan.
The outdoor kitchen is equipped with a gas stove and oven, a gas fridge, and a firepit. Wi-Fi facilities and solar power points are available at this area. Daily wood and firelighters are included. Additional wood can be purchased per crate. It is important to bring enough snacks and food for your stay, as there are no shops nearby.
Regrettably, we are unable to accommodate children under the age of 12. Due to game roaming freely, we are not pet friendly.
• Yoga mats and meditation cushions are provided.
• Full body massages are available on request, subject to availability.
• There are two hiking options: a circular trail of approximately 1.5 km up a steep mountain and the other is approximately 6 km return on a gravel road up a hill.
• Friendly fish and otters live in the dam. We recommend swimming. The hot tub can be used as a splash pool if not heated.
• Stargaze from the hot tub.
• Birdwatching.
• Lounge in the hammock.
• Catch and release smallmouth yellowfish fishing is allowed (bring your own fishing rod).
• Explore the waters in a two-seater canoe or on a SUP board (free of charge).
• A double-seater kayak is available to rent at a daily rate. We also offer guided kayak tours charged per person, during which the history of the dam is explained and how it was built. Completed in 1918, it is South Africa’s first and oldest concrete gravity dam.
• It’s possible to kayak to rock pools at the dam wall when it’s overflowing.
• Enjoy a boat cruise with beautiful views in the heart of the Little Karoo.
• Boats and jet skis are permitted on the dam (bring your own).
• Bring your own bike and you can also ride the picturesque Groenfontein Valley Circle Route.
Access to the retreat is by boat only. There is parking for your vehicle behind a gate on the opposite side of the Calitzdorpdam at the Fish Eagle Private Resort (approximately 8 km from Calitzdorp on a gravel road that any vehicle can drive on). A caretaker lives on-site. There is no reception at the parking area; therefore, an approximate arrival time needs to be confirmed beforehand, leaving enough time for a staff member to leave and meet you there. From there, you will be ferried via boat to your private tent, situated approximately 40 metres from the water's edge. The crossing takes about 10 minutes. Check-in must be between 2 and 6 p.m., as guests cannot be collected by boat in the dark. A staff member will be available to take you to your vehicle if it’s urgent.
Staff live on site and are available between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. (only available after 5 p.m. in case of emergency).