“Behold, the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Emmanuel” (which means “God with us”)
Matthew: 1:23

The Greatest Story Ever Told Comes to Life

This holiday season, visitors to Carmel Coastal Retreat will be invited to step into the greatest story ever told – the story of Emmanuel, God with us. Inspired by the words of Luke 2:12 (TPT), “You will recognise Him by this miraculous sign: You will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in the feeding trough,” the retreat’s theme centres around the humble birth of Jesus Christ and the divine presence which entered the world that night.

The image of the baby in the manger – a feeding trough becoming a cradle – has long stood as a powerful symbol of hope and salvation. This year, Carmel is bringing the message to life through a range of creative displays, family activities, and devotional experiences designed to remind guests that God is still with us.

Our prayer for every family and visitor is that they encounter Emmanuel personally – that they leave with a renewed sense of peace, purpose, and the assurance that God truly is with us.

As the season unfolds, Carmel Coastal Retreat offers not only a festive getaway but also a spiritual homecoming — a place to find rest, renewal, and reconnection with the heart of Christmas itself.

God bless and keep you this holiday season.

The Carmel Holiday Team

For more than seven decades, visitors to Carmel – whether holidaymakers, volunteers, or lifelong friends – have spoken of a quiet, unmistakable truth: God is here with us.

From our humble beginnings in 1954, Carmel has stood as a living testimony to divine faithfulness. Founded by Jack and Kaye Edkins, the ministry was born out of a vision placed on their hearts – to create a haven of fellowship, encouragement, and discipleship a place where believers from every culture, denomination, and generation could find spiritual rest and renewal.

Over the years, that vision has taken deep root in this hilltop retreat. Those who have walked its grounds or joined in worship have witnessed countless reminders of God’s presence and provision – none more vivid that one early miracle.

Not long before Jack and Kaye took occupation, a fierce veld fire swept up the hillside, threatening to engulf the guesthouse. But just as the flames drew near, the wind suddenly shifted. The fire was brought under control, and the guesthouse stood untouched, – a powerful symbol of divine protection that still echoes through Carmel’s history. As the ministry expanded, the Edkins-family recognised that the vision had outgrown any one household, the Carmel Evangelical Trust was formed to guide the work forward. Less than a decade later, in 1983, the Edkin’s made a remarkable gesture of faith – donating the entire property to the Lord, entrusting its future to the Trust.

Today, Carmel remains dedicated to its founding purpose:
“Sharing the restoring love of Christ through hospitality.”

Seventy-one years on, the land and its mission still belong to God – a lasting reminder that His presence has been, and continues to be, the heartbeat of Carmel.

My wife and I keep hearing the message of “He had made everything beautiful in its time”. Ecclesiastes 3:11.
If I’m thinking of the faithfulness of God currently in this season and the time since we have been at Carmel for the last three years, we have seen how He has brought “beauty from ashes.” How He has “rebuilt the ancient ruins” as He promised.

Carmel came out of a difficult season with Covid and there was a lot of repairing and restoration that had to be done, just like in each of our lives. We are grateful and thankful for those God added unto use for the exact season needed.

He has given us Worshippers, Prayer Warriors, Amazing Cooks and Decorators.

Everything does not always go as expected, sometimes we face disappointment and fatigue. There are many times we had to pray for bills to be paid on time and God would supply just in the nick of time. Ultimately we are all tested on our abiding in the Vine. If we trust in man-flesh, or if we stay dependant on Him.

We are grateful that God has put us in a community of friends from different churches but part of the same Body, able to serve in God’s Kingdom together.
It is also very encouraging to see how our groups that are invested in our ministry are returning and even international guests making Carmel their new home away from home to experience peace and restoration.

“And provide for those who grieve in Zion – to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendour. They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations.” Isaiah 61: 3-4.

Blessings,

Wouter Cloete

It’s been a joy and a privilege to be involved with Carmel over many years and especially now the decorating or the original house building over the past weeks.

I love that we serve a creative God. A god with a standard of excellence. Often over the last few years I have inwardly longed to see Carmel upgraded and brought into the 21st century without losing its wonderful “Soul” and the decades of “stories” that have been such a part of so many Christian lives.

During Easter this year I was walking through reception and the dining room area with some friends and found myself whispering a prayer underneath my breath… “God if you give me this project, I’ll do it!”.

I know from previous experience that where there is a “Vision”… there is God’s provision! During our ladies retreat at Carmel this year we were given the scripture Isaiah 43:18-19.

I felt a sense of purpose and excitement. So clearly I saw that when we did this renovation it needed to build on the previous projects. Restoring and repairing the existing structures. The colours needed to reflect the beautiful colours of the gardens at Carmel.

A variety of greens and neutral colours and textures. A botanical theme… bringing the outside… in! Instead of fighting “with the original architecture…. rather amplifying its beauty by making it look more modern yet honouring its original design. So a “country house” or a “modern farmhouse” look for the original reception area, passages and dining room. I wanted to create an experience for the guests that is peaceful and beautiful and God honouring.

The staff and the teams we worked with at various times and in different ways… all sent messages to say what a privilege it has been to be part of such a wonderful project… and we all have felt God’s presence every step of the way.

Thank you also to the incredible generosity of a financial donor who heard a whisper from God to release finances that made this all possible. There has been an incredible sense of joy and excitement for the season ahead.

The renovation is beautiful and I hope that it will just be the start of an incredible restoration of Carmel’s wonderful facilities.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Isaiah 43:18-19

It’s been a honour to serve,

Debbie Veysie

Rest, reflect & reconnect

View our latest video to get a glimpse into what makes Carmel so special. From the peaceful gardens and Vic Bay views to the chapel, and space to truly rest, restore and reconnect.

Group retreats, weddings, school holiday activities & break-away holidays, we welcome you to experience all that Carmel has to offer.

It will be our privilege as a Christian community to welcome you to Carmel Coastal Retreat.

Carmel Prayer Group

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Group, we pray in the chapel every Wednesday morning from 07h00 – 08h00.

We pray that God may continue to fill our guests with renewed hope, enthusiasm and restoration.

We pray that Carmel will continue to be fruitful place, bringing the much needed restoration our guests are seeking and that God’s blessings may be poured over them. May God’s presence be at Carmel as it is in heaven.

We would love for you to partner with us in prayer for Carmel. Please continue to hold the staff of Carmel and the Carmel Community in prayer.

To join the Prayer WhatsApp group, click the link below:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/DMcmOaIO0WREi5m3I2yiK4

To join the Prayer Newsletter Group, click the link below:
https://carmelcoastalretreat.co.za/prayer_group/

Carmel's ongoing legacy

The shared testimonies over the many years of Carmel’s history inspire confidence. God continues to be at work and use Carmel for His ministry. So many leave rested, encouraged, and restored, by the love of Jesus. The ripple effects of Carmel continue into eternity. All praise be to God!

In being able to continue the work of Carmel for future generations to come, we are seeking our valued guests and friends of Carmel for donations or bequests, in leaving a legacy into Carmel’s future. There are many specific projects we have on our hearts to implement the mission of Carmel, and many ways in which to become involved.

If being a part of Carmel’s legacy is on your heart, we would love to share our vision and projects with you in more detail and how you can be a part of Carmel’s bright future.

“Those who are planted in the house of the Lord Shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; They shall be fresh and flourishing.”
Psalm 92: 13-14

Greetings from Carmel

Greetings from Carmel

Faced with circumstances and evidence of a broken world, it can often be challenging to hold on to the Lord’s promises as truth. Particularly in the areas where the promise is:

not just of survival, but thriving
not just growing but flourishing
not just life, but abundance

Looking at a few verses, we can recognise that we flourish when we are planted in the house of the Lord (Psalm 92: 12-15). We will not fear harsh circumstances, if we trust in the Lord, and place our hope in Him. If our roots seek His living water, we thrive and yield fruit (Jeremiah 17: 7-8). We receive abundant life when we know our Shepherd’s voice and follow Him (John 10: 7-16).

With this encouragement, we pray that you will choose to remain in the house of the Lord, rooted in Him, learning His voice and following Him at every step.

Along this theme, we would love to welcome you to our renewed restaurant, Flourish at Carmel.

Carmel will be hosting our wonderful, family-focused holiday programme for guests and day visitors from the 15 December to the 11 January. The theme will be looking at our story as part of His story. There will be many events, activities and crafts for the whole family to enjoy. These include a potjiekos competition, Bingo, movie nights, prophetic art, hikes, bush crafts, campfire worship, slip n slide, and lots more. Please follow us on Facebook or Instagram for more details. We would love to see you there.

GOD bless and keep you all,

Suzanne Mackay
The Carmel Trustees

Experience School Holidays in 2025

December/January Holidays: 15 December 2025 – 11 January 2026

School Holidays are a special time at Carmel, for all to come together for rest and a good amount of holiday fun.

The school holiday period is almost fully booked. Be sure to book your camping or B&B accommodation soon, to ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable times at Carmel.

On select days, the Carmel team run daily activities for kids of all ages and adults too… and for rest and restoration, our garden walks, many quiet spaces and chapel are perfect to gain the rest you may need (spiritual, emotional and physical).

To experience School Holidays at Carmel, watch our December holiday highlights video below.

To book your camping or B&B accommodation, contact the office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Experience Carmel Camping

Looking for your next camping adventure this summer!

Enjoy the beauty of Carmel’s Camping and Caravan Park, while soaking in the magnificent Victoria Bay and Outeniqua mountain views, resting in our quiet spaces and many activities too.

Experience Carmel Camping by watching our video below. For bookings, contact reception on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Experience our Group Hospitality

Break away from the bustle of life to experience Carmel for your next group retreat, conference or day-event.

Come together for a time of restoration, networking and growth. Make your group visit an experience to remember through our range of accommodation, dining and meeting venues, while enjoying our breath-taking Victoria Bay views, beautiful gardens and quiet spaces too.

Contact our team to discuss your group retreat and to experience Carmel’s group hospitality. Contact us on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Greetings from the Ministry Team

We continue to run our Pastor’s Appreciation Retreat through the regular season and the Pathfinder-Impact Gap Year programme is also open for 2026 registrations. You can read more about these programmes below.

All are welcome to our Ministry programmes, it would be our privilege as a Christian community to welcome you to Carmel.

God bless,
The Carmel Ministry Team

Giving thanks for Prime Plus

We desire to show our appreciation for the integral role of all pastors in spreading the ministry of Christ, our Saviour to the world. During the regular season, we welcome all pastors and their spouse to take a time of rest (emotional, physical and spiritual) at Carmel to restore and reconnect.

There is a special rate offered for a 2 night stay, including Sea View accommodation, breakfast and dinner for 2 people sharing.

The time is not a organised retreat but a time for you to take rest at a time that suits your schedule, within the loving community of Carmel.

If you are a pastor or would like to sponsor a couple’s retreat, please contact the Carmel office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za to find out more.

Based on Romans 8:37: “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us”, our vision is to awaken a generation to thrive through traditional family values and be empowered to lead well in life through a Biblical foundation, identity and clear purpose. We do this through facilitating a personal development gap year program for young adults built around transformative lifestyle discipleship, vocation and life skills, disciplines, and team adventure experiences, helping them to become the leaders of tomorrow with faith and a Biblical Kingdom worldview.

A Journey of Growth, Faith, and Purpose

The year is in full swing, and what an amazing journey it has been with our current group of students! Over the past months, we have witnessed incredible growth in their lives as they step into a deeper understanding of who they are, who God has called them to be, and how they can impact the world around them….identity and purpose.

From laughter-filled adventures and team-building activities to heartfelt moments of worship and reflection, our time together has been life changing.

The Pathfinder-Impact students have enjoyed a wide range of experiences this year, from hiking, surfing, and exploring the beauty of the Garden Route to learning practical skills like leatherwork, beadwork, woodworking, and Farming God’s Way gardening. In the classroom, they have focused on identity in Christ, renewing the mind, and living out their salvation, with deep times of worship and devotion. Students have also served others through street evangelism and community outreach. The growth and fruit in their lives is evident as they continue to blossom. With more adventures planned, including a possible mission trip to Lesotho, the journey ahead promises to be exciting and impactful.

The testimony of these students is why we believe the Pathfinder-impact season of a gap year is a unique opportunity for young adults. It is a safe place to prepare between home and ‘the world’.

We are excited to tell you that registrations are open for February 2026!

You can find out more at https://pathfinder-impact.com, email us at info@pathfinder-impact.com or call on 071-183 2631

Please share If you have children, grandchildren, friends or church communities with young adults who need a transformative year in their life.

With much love and blessings

Gavin, Nicky and Johann

Rest, reflect & reconnect

Carmel Prayer Group

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Group, we pray in the chapel every Wednesday morning from 07h00 – 08h00.

We pray that God may continue to fill our guests with renewed hope, enthusiasm and restoration.

We would love for you to partner with us in prayer for Carmel. Please continue to hold the staff of Carmel and the Carmel Community in prayer.

Carmel's ongoing legacy

If being a part of Carmel’s legacy is on your heart, we would love to share our vision and projects with you in more detail and how you can be a part of Carmel’s bright future.

“But who am I, and who are my people, that we could give anything to you? Everything we have has come from you, and we give you only what you first gave us!”
1 Chronicles 29: 14

Greetings from Carmel

It is interesting to consider ownership in the light of a Kingdom’s perspective. How does our faith shape our view of entitlement and responsibility? In terms of Carmel, it is even more interesting because of the number of different people who support and value the place and ministry. There is the legal structure, the staff, and all the key stakeholders, but ultimately Carmel is owned by the Lord. It is a part of the body of Christ. Although the property is legally held in a trust, the trust mandate (and what each of us commits to) is for us to steward the asset for the Lord’s purposes, knowing this special place is HIS.

Does someone who submits their life to their Saviour ever really own anything? Do we earn anything? Are we entitled to anything? The short answer is “no”. All that we have in our care, is pure gift, owned by our Creator (Ephesians 2: 8-9 and Romans 11: 36).

The goal then is to ask the question:
“What is Your will, Lord, for this that You have placed in my hand? How do You lead? Thank you for the privilege of partnering with You in Your Kingdom. May You show how to steward all that is Yours in a way that gives You all the glory.”

The end of the year is fast approaching and many of us are considering how to share special family time and possibly escape for a holiday. Although Carmel is mostly fully booked between 12 December – 12 January, there are still spaces available from the 1st – 12th Dec and from the 15th January onwards at our regular season rates. There will be lovely activities for day visitors to join and special meals offered by our kitchen: “Taste and Sea” that the Lord is Good (Psalm 34:8).

GOD bless and keep you all,

Suzanne Mackay
The Carmel Trustees

Experience School Holidays in 2025

December/January Holidays: 15 December – 14 January

School Holidays are a special time at Carmel, for all to come together for rest and a good amount of holiday fun.

The school holiday bookings fill up fast, so be sure to book your camping or B&B accommodation soon, to ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable times at Carmel.

On select days, the Carmel team run daily activities for kids of all ages and adults too… and for rest and restoration, our garden walks, many quiet spaces and chapel are perfect to gain the rest you may need (spiritual, emotional and physical).

To experience School Holidays at Carmel, watch our December holiday highlights video below.

To book your camping or B&B accommodation, contact the office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Experience Carmel Camping

Experience our Group Hospitality

Greetings from the Ministry Team

Last week, we held our annual Prime Plus Retreat and we give thanks for the blessed time below.

We continue to run our Pastor’s Appreciation Retreat through the regular season and the Pathfinder-Impact Gap Year programme is also open for 2026 registrations. You can read more about these programmes below.

All are welcome to our Ministry programmes, it would be our privilege as a Christian community to welcome you to Carmel.

God bless,
The Carmel Ministry Team

Giving thanks for Prime Plus

Prime Plus 2025 was once again a special time. Thirty folk booked in for the week, mainly retired folk, and a wonderful mix of folk who had previously attended either the Celtic weeks, or Prime Plus on many previous occasions, as well as new folk attending Carmel for the first time.

The theme was “Hearing God.” Every morning we met for prayers in the Chapel, led by Rob Penrith, and after breakfast listened to virtual teaching by Dallas Willard, followed by discussion in our groups. Again there was teaching in the evenings. Everyone testified to hearing God in a unique and special way, and will continue to do so in our days ahead.

Everyone loved the Carmel meals. A comment from one gentleman,
“I would like to extend hearty congratulations to the catering staff for feeding us so well during our stay at the ever lovely and quite unique Carmel. I applaud the return to good wholesome and simple old Carmel-style cuisine and I am looking forward to tasting what’s on offer from the kitchen during my Christmas /New Year’s visit. Well done.”

A special treat this year was the performance by the Indaca Trio. A local professional music group, who entertained us with the most beautiful classical pieces on the piano, violin, and viola.

We also enjoyed an afternoon of art with Debbie Veysie and Suzanne Mackay.

A picnic at Victoria Bay, on a beautiful day, never complete without an ice-cream, and a walk to watch the spectacular waves.

Many shared of the special times of fellowship in the groups and around the tables, of old friendships renewed and new friendships made.

We thank God for a wonderful week, and look forward to seeing you all again next year.

Blessings
Margie

A Journey of Growth, Faith, and Purpose

Gavin, Nicky and Johann

Rest, reflect & reconnect

Carmel Prayer Group

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Group, we pray in the chapel every Wednesday morning from 07h00 – 08h00.

We pray that God may continue to fill our guests with renewed hope, enthusiasm and restoration.

We would love for you to partner with us in prayer for Carmel. Please continue to hold the staff of Carmel and the Carmel Community in prayer.

Carmel's ongoing legacy

If being a part of Carmel’s legacy is on your heart, we would love to share our vision and projects with you in more detail and how you can be a part of Carmel’s bright future.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love (“hesed”) endures forever.
Psalm 136: 1

Greetings from Carmel

The Hebrew word “hesed”, translated as love or mercy in our English Bibles, is used 245 times in the Old Testament. In this Psalm it is a repeated reminder that “His love endures forever”. “Hesed” means a steadfast, unwavering and covenantal love. It is interesting that the tense in which the verb “love” is written is as perfect and passive. This means the love of the Lord is described is perfect and complete, without anything needing to be done to be earned – steadfast through all circumstance and time.

It is wonderful to realise that this is the love our Lord shows us, His children, His body and the ministry He partners with us in. Our reflection as the Carmel community is two-fold:

Firstly, we are grateful for the unfailing love our Lord has shown this special place and every person who has been part of the ministry and community. His steadfast love endures forever.
Secondly, we ask our Lord to be at work within our hearts, enabling us to reflect this “hesed” love to all who visit and spend time with us. Thank You, Lord, that You are good and Your love endures forever.

The Lord’s faithful love has been most evident in the past few weeks through the group ministries, the women’s retreat and His guidance through our season of transition.

You can read more below about the Women’s Retreat, the upcoming Prime Plus week and the opening of registrations for the Pathfinder-Impact Gap Year programme below.

GOD bless and keep you all,

Suzanne Mackay
The Carmel Trustees

Greetings from the Ministry Team

We are very excited to be hosting the Prime Plus retreat over 15 – 19 September. There has been an amazing response with almost 30 attendees already booked. There are a few stay-over spots still remaining. Read more about Prime Plus: “Hearing from God” below.

Over 1-3 August, we held our Women’s Retreat and we give thanks for the blessed time below.

All are welcome to our Ministry events, it would be our privilege as a Christian community to welcome you to Carmel.

God bless,
The Carmel Ministry Team

15 – 19 September 2025

Presented by:
Harry and Margie Munnings and Heather Davies

HEARING FROM GOD

Each morning, after short time of worship, we will listen to a virtual 30 minute session by Dallas Willard (click to learn more about Dallas Willard), a renowned Bible teacher, followed by discussion in groups. He takes the mystery out of hearing from God, giving us tools to live life in intimate friendship with God.

There will be free time after a lunch break, and croquet, walks, a visit to the beach or games can be organised for those who would like to participate.

A full Carmel dinner in the dining room, will be followed by another virtual session with Dallas Willard every evening. On Thursday, the last night, the course will end with a musical evening with The Indaca Trio.

There are 3 options to join the Prime Plus week:

Stay-over (4 nights): R2,660 / per person sharing

Includes dinner, bed & breakfast

Non-stay-over: R1450

Includes breakfast and dinner

The course is designed for full attendance, but it is possible to attend for a single day

R350 per day includes breakfast and dinner

On all options, lunch, snacks, teas and coffee will be available at The Carmel Dining Room at a separate cost during the week.

To book your place for Prime Plus 2025, please call reception at 044-889-0014 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Giving thanks for our Women's Retreat

Over 1-3 August, Carmel hosted almost 70 women from across the country. It was such a special time of connection with one another, and experiencing the Father’s heart in a new way. We are so grateful for how the Holy Spirit met with each one in a personal way through the teaching, meditations on the Exodus journey, beautiful gardens, and shared meals.

It seems many ladies are hoping we will offer a weekend more than once a year! Watch this space.

Testimonies from our guests

“I awoke Monday morning buzzing with the anointing and needing to express my gratitude for an inspiring and healing weekend. In keeping with the acrostics of the Saturday Stations. The Women’s Retreat at Carmel “Streams in the desert”, the speakers, the worship leaders, the creatives involved in those incredible stations, the workshop leaders, the wonderful participants (now sisters in Christ) and the staff at Carmel, can be summed up in the word ‘Authentic’. The dictionary definition: “Authentic describes something that is real, genuine and not a copy or imitation. When something is authentic, it is considered true to its origin and can be trusted as reliable.”

A Journey of Growth, Faith, and Purpose

Gavin, Nicky and Johann

Experience our Group Hospitality

Experience School Holidays in 2025

October Holidays: 4 October – 12 October
December/January Holidays: 15 December – 11 January

School Holidays are a special time at Carmel, for all to come together for rest and a good amount of holiday fun.

The school holiday bookings fill up fast, so be sure to book your camping or B&B accommodation soon, to ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable times at Carmel.

On select days, the Carmel team run daily activities for kids of all ages and adults too… and for rest and restoration, our garden walks, many quiet spaces and chapel are perfect to gain the rest you may need (spiritual, emotional and physical).

To experience School Holidays at Carmel, watch our December holiday highlights video below.

To book your camping or B&B accommodation, contact the office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Rest, reflect & reconnect

Experience Carmel Camping

Looking for your next camping adventure.

Enjoy the beauty of Carmel’s Camping and Caravan Park, while soaking in the magnificent Victoria Bay and Outeniqua mountain views, resting in our quiet spaces and many activities too.

Experience Carmel Camping by watching our video below. For bookings, contact reception on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Carmel Prayer Group

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Group, we pray in the chapel every Wednesday morning from 07h00 – 08h00.

We pray that God may continue to fill our guests with renewed hope, enthusiasm and restoration.

We would love for you to partner with us in prayer for Carmel. Please continue to hold the staff of Carmel and the Carmel Community in prayer.

Carmel's ongoing legacy

If being a part of Carmel’s legacy is on your heart, we would love to share our vision and projects with you in more detail and how you can be a part of Carmel’s bright future.

“Blessed are those whose strength is in You, who have set their hearts on Pilgrimage. As they pass through the valley of Baka (tears), they make it a place of springs, the autumn rains also cover it with pools. They go from strength to strength until each appears before God in Zion.”
Psalm 84: 5-7

Greetings from Carmel

We have passed the middle of the year, the winter solstice, and are now entering into a beautiful time of the year at Carmel. The seasons change as Carmel opens up with different colours and blooms – shades of blue, green and glorious hues.

We have had a time of prayer and reflection over the last few weeks as we shift gear into this new season of Carmel and we are excited to see what the Lord will do.

I have always had a picture of all the lives that have come and gone through the gates of Carmel and how those lives have been touched. If we had a small red flag representing each ones’ lives and the transformation that the Lord has done in them through Carmel, it would be awesome to see the thousands that have been touched.

As we journey forward it would be wonderful for those of you that have been touched throughout the years to share your stories. You can click here to share your story.

It is another time of transition at Carmel, with Ethnos Movement International deciding to move its operations from Carmel back to George. This means that Ethnos’ staff and students will no longer be based at Carmel, and The Table will also be relocating. While this marks a significant transition, it is not the end of our relationship. We will continue to work together on shared ministries, and we see this as a meaningful opportunity for both Ethnos and Carmel to grow and thrive in their distinct missions, while remaining united in spirit and purpose.

As Ethnos steps into this new season, we want to express our deep gratitude for the time we’ve shared in ministry. We are thankful for the ways in which Ethnos has assisted with upgrading our dining room deck, various rental offerings and provided manpower for ministry. It is wonderful to see how the Lord has worked through our partnership. Our prayers go with Ethnos – that God would guide every step, provide abundantly, and continue to use their gifts to build the Kingdom in powerful ways.

The Carmel Dining room will still remain with a renewed offering. We look forward to updating you on the new Dining Room name and offering in the weeks ahead.

GOD bless and keep you all,

Peter Veysie
The Carmel Trustees

Rest, reflect & reconnect

We’re so excited to share our latest video with you – capturing just a glimpse of what makes Carmel so special. From the peaceful gardens and Vic Bay views to the chapel, and space to truly rest, reflect and reconnect… we welcome you to experience all that Carmel has to offer.

Until 31 August, we are running our low season rates. Winter’s slower pace is God’s invitation to rest. Come cosy up at Carmel – restore your soul, take in the beauty and colours of winter, and let us take care of you with our hearty, special breakfasts and dinners served daily.

It will be our privilege as a Christian community to welcome you to Carmel Coastal Retreat.

Greetings from the Ministry Team

We are very excited to be hosting the Women’s Retreat at Carmel in 2 weeks time. There has been an amazing response with almost 50 women joining the retreat. There are a few stay-over spots still remaining and day visitors are also welcome. There is more info on the Women’s Retreat below with the options to join.

In September we are hosting the Prime Plus week and the Pastor’s Appreciation Retreat continues to run throughout the regular season.

All are welcome to our Ministry events, it would be our privilege as a Christian community to welcome you to Carmel.

God bless,
The Carmel Ministry Team

1 – 3 August 2025
Presented by Suria Scholtz, Suzanne Mackay, and Debbie Veysie

RESTED, RESTORED, AND REVIVED

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”
Isaiah 43:19

Join us for a weekend of fresh encounters with God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, trusting Him for times of refreshing in your life.

Women’s Retreat Sessions:

Friday: The Father prepares a Family
Saturday: The Son prepares an Eternal Home
Sunday: The Holy Spirit prepares a Bride

The final planning, along with the options and pricing to join the Women’s Retreat are in the planning and we look forward to sharing with you in the week ahead. Please keep an eye on our Ministry webpage for these details or you can email your interest to bookings@carmelmail.co.za and we will send you the full details as soon as available.

15 – 19 September 2025

Presented by:
Harry and Margie Munnings and Heather Davies

HEARING FROM GOD

There will be free time after a lunch break, and croquet, walks, a visit to the beach or games can be organised for those who would like to participate.

There are 3 options to join the Prime Plus week:

Stay-over (4 nights): R2,660 / per person sharing

Includes dinner, bed & breakfast

Non-stay-over: R1450

Includes breakfast and dinner

The course is designed for full attendance, but it is possible to attend for a single day

R350 per day includes breakfast and dinner

On all options, lunch, snacks, teas and coffee will be available at The Carmel Dining Room at a separate cost during the week.

To book your place for Prime Plus 2025, please call reception at 044-889-0014 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Experience our Group Hospitality

Experience School Holidays in 2025

October Holidays: 4 October – 12 October
December/January Holidays: 15 December – 11 January

School Holidays are a special time at Carmel, for all to come together for rest and a good amount of holiday fun.

The school holiday bookings fill up fast, so be sure to book your camping or B&B accommodation soon, to ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable times at Carmel.

To experience School Holidays at Carmel, watch our December holiday highlights video below.

To book your camping or B&B accommodation, contact the office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Experience Carmel Camping

Carmel Prayer Group

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Group, we pray in the chapel every Wednesday morning from 07h00 – 08h00.

We pray that God may continue to fill our guests with renewed hope, enthusiasm and restoration.

We would love for you to partner with us in prayer for Carmel. Please continue to hold the staff of Carmel and the Carmel Community in prayer.

Carmel's ongoing legacy

If being a part of Carmel’s legacy is on your heart, we would love to share our vision and projects with you in more detail and how you can be a part of Carmel’s bright future.

“His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of the warrior; the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.”

Psalm 147:10-11

Greetings from Carmel

In this past week, Peter Veysie, our newest trustee, shared Psalm 147 with me. I find great encouragement in the reminder that the Lord delights in those who fear Him, whose hope is in Him. We often rely on many other things, like our material comforts, physical strength or our own abilities and knowledge. Instead, our faith in Christ encourages us to put our hope in Him, to build our house on the sure and unchanging foundation/bedrock of His teaching (Matthew 7: 24-29).

One way we rely on our Lord, is to turn to him in prayer and in this vein, I would like to share a letter from Angela McClarty, a member of the Carmel Prayer Group:

Dear Carmel Prayer Group,

Recently one of our members, Clara, said she had a picture of Carmel being protected by an army surrounding the whole property. My mind immediately went to the story in 2 Kings 6 of Elisha being surrounded by an army of horses and chariots sent by the King of Aram to capture him, but he was not afraid as he saw with spiritual eyes that God had filled the hills with His army of horses and chariots of fire. Our prayer team thought how wonderful it would be if Carmel had an army of prayer warriors to protect it against the devices of the evil one and to petition God for His mission for Carmel to be fully restored. This would be an answer to many prayers.

We would love to see Carmel full of people from all walks of life being blessed by the presence and power of God’s love. Much has happened at Carmel in the past few years but we long for this very special place to be used more in extension of the Lord’s Kingdom.

We believe that you, like us, know God uses the prayers of His people in a mysterious way to bring amazing blessings which are for His glory. Our plan is to send out a weekly WhatsApp and/or email with two to three pertinent prayer requests. We would update you on answers and progress for giving thanks and praise to God and to encourage us all. We will keep it short as we know it is easy to become inundated with social media so we don’t want to overload you, but if you want more you can tell us!

To join the Prayer WhatsApp Group, click the link below:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/DMcmOaIO0WREi5m3I2yiK4

To join the Prayer Group Newsletter, click the link below:
https://carmelcoastalretreat.co.za/prayer_group/

May the Lord bless you and your family and your witness for Him.

In the love of our Lord Jesus

Angela

GOD bless and keep you all,

Suzanne Mackay
The Carmel Trustees

Greetings from the Ministry Team

Throughout the year Carmel hosts a variety of meaningful, special interest ministry programmes and spiritually enriching seminars. Carmel staff, as well as highly regarded teachers and specialists lead these programmes.

To read more about the Ministry events planned over the months ahead, you can read more below. For further details you can read more on the Ministry webpage by clicking here.

All our welcome to our Ministry events, it would be our privilege as a Christian community to welcome you to Carmel.

God bless,

The Carmel Ministry Team

1 – 3 August 2025

RESTED, RESTORED, AND REVIVED

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”
Isaiah 43:19

Join us for a weekend of fresh encounters with God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, trusting Him for times of refreshing in your life.

There are options for all to join

1. Stay-over sharing (2 nights): R1,815 pp/sharing
Includes accommodation, activity fee, book and meals:
Friday tea & dinner, Saturday breakfast, teas, lunch & dinner, Sunday breakfast, tea & lunch

2. Day attendees with meals: R969 pp
Includes activity fee, book and meals:
Friday tea & dinner, Saturday breakfast, teas, lunch & dinner, Sunday breakfast, tea & lunch

3. Day attendees without meals: R359 pp
Includes activity fee, book & teas

To book your place for the Women’s Retreat, please call reception at 044-889-0014 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

15 – 19 September 2025

Presented by:
Harry and Margie Munnings and Heather Davies

HEARING FROM GOD

Each morning, we will listen to a virtual 30 minute session by Dallas Willard (click to learn more about Dallas Willard), a renowned Bible teacher, followed by discussion in groups. He takes the mystery out of hearing from God, giving us tools to live life in intimate friendship with God. This will be followed a short time of worship.

There will be free time after lunch, and croquet, walks, a visit to the beach or games can be organised for those who would like to participate. A full Carmel dinner in the dining room, will be followed by a program every evening, including music, or worship, games, and a time of testimony on the last night, ending with short evening prayers.

Options to join:

The cost for the week will be R2660/per person sharing and includes dinner, bed and breakfast.
Lunch, snacks, teas and coffee will be available at The Table Restaurant at a separate cost during the week.
Day visitors are welcome at R50/per day. All meals and drinks to be arranged at own cost

To book your place for Prime Plus 2025, please call reception at 044-889-0014 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Experience School Holidays in 2025

June/July Holidays: 28 June – 21 July
October Holidays: 4 October – 12 October
December/January Holidays: 15 December – 11 January

School Holidays are a special time at Carmel, for all to come together for rest and a good amount of holiday fun.

The school holiday bookings fill up fast, so be sure to book your camping or B&B accommodation soon, to ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable times at Carmel.

To experience School Holidays at Carmel, watch our December holiday highlights video below.

To book your camping or B&B accommodation, contact the office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Experience Carmel Camping

Looking for your next camping adventure.

Enjoy the beauty of Carmel’s Camping and Caravan Park, while soaking in the magnificent Victoria Bay and Outeniqua mountain views, resting in our quiet spaces and many activities too. Also visit the “The Table Restaurant” for your coffee fix, treats, lunch and dinner during your stay.

Experience Carmel Camping by watching our video below. For bookings, contact reception on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Experience our Group Hospitality

The Table Restaurant at Carmel

The Table at Carmel has been an immense blessing to our guests, stay-over and day visitors, to have a space of fellowship and connecting over delicious food and coffee.

The daily menu is filled with options for all and the Sunday lunch gathering has become a Carmel tradition each week with a set menu.

For more information and to make a reservation, you can call The Table on
079-538-4722 or email thetable.carmel@ethnosmi.org.

We look forward to serving you soon!

Carmel Prayer Group

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Group, we pray in the chapel every Wednesday morning from 07h00 – 08h00.

We pray that God may continue to fill our guests with renewed hope, enthusiasm and restoration.

We would love for you to partner with us in prayer for Carmel. Please continue to hold the staff of Carmel and the Carmel Community in prayer.

Carmel's ongoing legacy

If being a part of Carmel’s legacy is on your heart, we would love to share our vision and projects with you in more detail and how you can be a part of Carmel’s bright future.

“So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. And to this day it is said, “On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.”
Philippians 2: 5-7

Greetings from Carmel

Jehovah Jireh – “The Lord will provide”

So often our LORD uses circumstances to reveal more of His character to us. Genesis 22 tells the story of Abraham being tested in the most personal of ways. The LORD asked Abraham to sacrifice his only son, Isaac, on the mountain. Abraham’s faith is really evident throughout the story. Firstly, he is said to have begun the journey, early the very next morning. Secondly, prior to having any evidence of GOD’s provision in this situation, he answered Isaac “God Himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” Through taking each step faithfully, trusting in the LORD’s nature, more of His provision and love could be shown.

On the 1st of May we celebrated Carmel Coastal Retreat’s 71st birthday! What an incredible legacy of the LORD’s faithfulness. There are so many testimony’s over the years of people experiencing personal encounters with the Holy Spirit in this place. But so much of this place’s existence has been a story of laying down what is precious and taking steps without seeing the provision yet. This can only be done in the knowledge of our LORD’s unchanging character. He continuously raises up people and resources in His perfect timing. Please join me in our prayers of gratitude for 71 years of His faithful provision.

Today, we would like to share the good news that Rev. Peter Veysie has accepted a position as a Trustee of Carmel. We are so grateful for his continuous heart for the ministry from this place. He, and his wife, Debbie have sowed into Carmel for many years already, through teaching, hosting services and retreats, artistic design, staff support and in so many more ways. Peter brings a wealth of ministry experience and is a respected leader in the George and wider church community.

If you would like to read more about Peter, click here. If you would like to see all the current trustees, click here.

GOD bless and keep you all,

Suzanne Mackay
The Carmel Trustees

Greetings from Operations

On the 1st May we celebrated 71 years since the Ministry of Carmel began.

Thank you, Father for Your faithfulness, Your continued presence and the transforming power of Your Spirit. Oh Lord, may You continue to bless Carmel and expand its influence; may You always be present and protect us in all we do.

We would like to honour all those who have been part of the life of Carmel over the past 71 years. For all those who have sown into the ministry through prayer, skills, time, finances, passion and a myriad of other ways. When speaking to people about Carmel, they invariably share a story of how Carmel is a significant place to them because they had a personal encounter with their Father.

If you have a testimony or story of your times at Carmel over the 71 years, we would love for you to share with us in celebrating the community of Carmel. You can click here to send us your testimony.

God bless,
Wouter Cloete
General Manager

Greetings from the Ministry Team

Throughout the year Carmel hosts a variety of meaningful, special interest ministry programmes and spiritually enriching seminars. Carmel staff as well as highly regarded teachers and specialists lead these programmes.

To read more about the Ministry events planned over the months ahead, you can read more below. For further details you can read more on the Ministry webpage by clicking here.

All our welcome to our Ministry events, it would be our privilege as a Christian community to welcome you to Carmel.

God bless,
The Carmel Ministry Team

1 – 3 August 2025
Presented by Suria Scholtz, Suzanne Mackay, and Debbie Veysie

RESTED, RESTORED, AND REVIVED

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”
Isaiah 43:19

Join us for a weekend of fresh encounters with God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, trusting Him for times of refreshing in your life.

Women’s Retreat Sessions:

Friday: The Father prepares a Family
Saturday: The Son prepares an Eternal Home
Sunday: The Holy Spirit prepares a Bride

15 – 19 September 2025

Presented by:
Harry and Margie Munnings and Heather Davies

HEARING FROM GOD

Options to join:

The cost for the week will be R2660/per person sharing and includes dinner, bed and breakfast.
Lunch, snacks, teas and coffee will be available at The Table Restaurant at a separate cost during the week.
Day visitors are welcome at R50/per day. All meals and drinks to be arranged at own cost

To book your place for Prime Plus 2025, please call reception at 044-889-0014 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Experience School Holidays in 2025

June/July Holidays: 28 June – 21 July
October Holidays: 4 October – 12 October
December/January Holidays: 15 December – 11 January

School Holidays are a special time at Carmel, for all to come together for rest and a good amount of holiday fun.

The school holiday bookings fill up fast, so be sure to book your camping or B&B accommodation soon, to ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable times at Carmel.

To experience School Holidays at Carmel, watch our December holiday highlights video below.

To book your camping or B&B accommodation, contact the office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Experience Carmel Camping

Looking for your next camping adventure.

Enjoy the beauty of Carmel’s Camping and Caravan Park, while soaking in the magnificent Victoria Bay and Outeniqua mountain views, resting in our quiet spaces and many activities too. Also visit the “The Table Restaurant” for your coffee fix, treats, lunch and dinner during your stay.

Experience Carmel Camping by watching our video below. For bookings, contact reception on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Experience our Group Hospitality

The Table Restaurant at Carmel

Carmel's ongoing legacy

If being a part of Carmel’s legacy is on your heart, we would love to share our vision and projects with you in more detail and how you can be a part of Carmel’s bright future.

“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who being in very nature GOD, did not consider equality with GOD something to be used to His own advantage; rather, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.”
Philippians 2: 5-7

Greetings from Carmel

I am sitting in home affairs as I write this, considering what service looks like. I applaud the individuals who day-in and day-out, serve the community without much gain or thanks. Often, they receive the very worst frustration instead of gratitude for their service.

It makes me think of the way Jesus is described in Philippians 2. He voluntarily gave up His rights and authority to become a servant. The Greek word used for “servant / slave” in this passage is “doulos” referring to someone who is tied or bound to another person, under their authority and care. Jesus bound Himself to His Father, to serve as He led; in complete obedience to His will, even to death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). Through His humble submission, He ultimately served and saved the entire human race!

Jesus’ example reminds us that we cannot measure our service by the ease with which we fulfil a role, the type of fruit it bares or even the thanks we receive. Jesus modelled how service begins with complete submission to the Father and His will – ultimately through obedience to Him, we serve all those around us.

As we move through the season of lent and look towards Easter, we thank our Saviour for the price He paid for our sins, the ransom He paid for our freedom. We welcome you to stay at Carmel over the Easter weekend or join as a day visitor for the various celebrations and holiday activities planned (read more below).

GOD bless and keep you all,

Suzanne Mackay
The Carmel Trustees

Greetings from Operations

In February, Rachel reached her milestone 60th birthday and has entered the retirement season of her life. With her famous Carmel breads and her beautiful personality, Rachel has tirelessly served Carmel since 1988.

37 years is an incredible achievement and the team, the greater Carmel community and I will miss her deeply in the time ahead as she starts this new chapter of her life.

I give heartfelt thanks to the Rachel for her dedication and her generosity of heart toward to Carmel over all these years. I’ve been privileged to serve 3 of these years alongside Rachel and I will be forever grateful for her service and the impact she has had within Carmel.

I wish Rachel the very best as she enters her retirement. I pray that God blesses her abundantly in this new season of life.

If you would like to send a message to Rachel, please click here to email me and I will pass your message onto her.

God bless,

Wouter Cloete
General Manager

Experience Carmel Camping

Looking for a camping adventure. Join us at Carmel for the Easter long weekend over 18-21 April. If you are looking for B&B accommodation, enquire about our Sea View accommodation units too.

Experience the beauty of Carmel’s Camping and Caravan Park, while enjoying the magnificent Victoria Bay and Outeniqua mountain views, resting in our quiet spaces and many activities too. Also visit the “The Table Restaurant” for your coffee fix, treats, lunch and dinner during your stay.

Experience Carmel Camping by watching our video below. For bookings, contact reception on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Easter weekend: Jesus is Risen

Easter Sunday is a special time at Carmel for all to come together for meaningful celebration of the love of Christ for the world, our Saviour.

On Sunday we will be holding the sunrise service and worship at 6am. The service is lead by Peter Veysie, Minister of the George Methodist Church. The service will be followed by delicious hot-cross buns and fellowship at Kaye’s Cafe.

Our ‘Jesus is Risen’ celebration breakfast and lunch will follow and we welcome all to join for breakfast and/or lunch.

For the ‘Jesus is Risen’ breakfast and lunch, please contact reception on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za to book.

For the Sunday Sunrise Service, all are welcome. There is no need to contact us prior.

Greetings from the Ministry Team

The Women’s Retreat is in planning for 1-3 August (further details to follow soon) and in September we will be running the Prime Plus Retreat (see below). Our Pastor’s Appreciation Retreat will run across the regular season. Read more below.

To be notified of further details about the Women’s Retreat once available, you can sign up to our ministry newsletter and also keep an eye on our Ministry webpage. It will be our privilege to welcome you to one of our upcoming ministry events.

God bless,
The Carmel Ministry Team

15 – 19 September 2025

Presented by:
Harry and Margie Munnings and Heather Davies

The theme for Prime Plus 2025 is “Hearing from God”.
Each morning, we will listen to a virtual 30 minute session by Dallas Willard (click to learn more about Dallas Willard), a renowned Bible teacher, followed by discussion in groups. He takes the mystery out of hearing from God, giving us tools to live life in intimate friendship with God. This will be followed a short time of worship.

There will be free time after lunch, and crochet, walks, a visit to the beach or games can be organised for those who would like to participate. A full Carmel dinner in the dining room, will be followed by a program every evening, including music, or worship, games, and a time of testimony on the last night, ending with short evening prayers.

Options to join:
– The cost for the week will be R2660/per person sharing and includes dinner, bed and breakfast.
– Lunch, snacks, teas and coffee will be available at The Table Restaurant at a separate cost during the week.
– Day visitors are welcome at R50/per day. All meals and drinks to be arranged at own cost

To book your place for Prime Plus 2025, please call reception at 044-889-0014 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Experience School Holidays in 2025

Easter Weekend: 18 – 21 April 2025
June/July Holidays: 28 June – 21 July
October Holidays: 4 October – 12 October
December/January Holidays: 15 December – 11 January

School Holidays are a special time at Carmel, for all to come together for rest and a good amount of holiday fun.

The school holiday bookings fill up fast, so be sure to book your camping or B&B accommodation soon, to ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable times at Carmel.

To experience School Holidays at Carmel, watch our December holiday highlights video below.

To book your camping or B&B accommodation, contact the office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

The Table Restaurant at Carmel

Experience our Group Hospitality

Carmel's ongoing legacy

If being a part of Carmel’s legacy is on your heart, we would love to share our vision and projects with you in more detail and how you can be a part of Carmel’s bright future.

Jesus called a little child to him and put the child among them. Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. So anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me.”
Matthew 18: 2-5

Greetings from Carmel

The image of a child on Jesus’ lap has been on my heart for a few weeks. A parallel account to the above passage (from Mark 9: 36-37) speaks of Jesus taking the child into his arms. The Matthew passage continues to describe Jesus welcoming children to come to Him and laying His hands on their heads to bless them (Matthew 19: 13-15). Jesus encourages His disciples to become like little children in the attitude of their hearts.

We are encouraged to turn away from our pride and entitlement, from our tendencies for comparison and judgement. We should choose rather to set our minds and hearts on gratitude for His salvation, on repentance and the posture of humility. He welcomes us into His presence, to sit on His lap with His protective arms surrounding us, and to receive His blessing.

The end of year school holidays were an immensely blessed time for all our guests over the period. There were fun activities for all ages, along with evening worship, devotional times and plenty time to rest and restore for the year ahead. The presence of God was truly felt over the period. School Holidays are a special time at Carmel and you can read more about the 2025 holiday programmes below. We are also excited about the 2025 Ministry Programmes, with further details below.

The Table Restuarant at Carmel has been a incredible blessing to our guests and day visitors. We welcome you to visit and experience our delicious food and coffee, while enjoying fellowship around the tables. More on the Table at Carmel can be read below.

GOD bless and keep you all,

Suzanne Mackay
The Carmel Trustees

Experience School Holidays in 2025

Easter Weekend: 18 – 21 April 2025
June/July Holidays: 28 June – 21 July
October Holidays: 4 October – 12 October
December/January Holidays: 15 December – 11 January

School Holidays are a special time at Carmel, for all to come together for rest and a good amount of holiday fun.

The school holiday bookings fill up fast so be sure to book your camping or B&B accommodation soon to ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable times at Carmel.

On select days, the Carmel team run daily activities for kids of all ages and adults too… and for rest and restoration, our garden walks, many quiet spaces and chapel are perfect to gain the rest you may need (spiritual, emotional and physical).

To experience School Holidays at Carmel, watch our December holiday highlights video below.

To book your camping or B&B accommodation, contact the office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

The Table Restaurant at Carmel

Experience Carmel Camping

Greetings from the Ministry Team

We are so excited to share the news with you of the launch of the Pathfinder-Impact Gap Year Program, hosted at Carmel. Registrations for the year close on 1 March. Read more below.

In September, we will be running the Prime Plus week and the Women’s Retreat is in planning for July/August. Our Pastor’s Appreciation Retreat (read more below) will run across the regular season.

To be notified of further details once available, you can sign up to our ministry newsletterand also keep an eye on our Ministry webpage. It will be our privilege to welcome you to one of our upcoming ministry events.

God bless,
The Carmel Ministry Team

Pathfinder-Impact is a transformative discipleship Gap Year program founded by Gavin and Nicky Lloyd, and Johann and Naomi Verster from the OutdoorEco team.

Based on Romans 8:37: “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us”, their vision is to awaken a generation to thrive through traditional family values and be empowered to lead well in life through a Biblical foundation, identity and clear purpose. They do this through facilitating a personal development gap year program for young adults (18- to 24-year-olds) built around transformative lifestyle discipleship, vocation and life skills, disciplines, and team adventure experiences, helping them to become the leaders of tomorrow with faith and a Biblical Kingdom worldview. Their curriculum is built on the Prothesis Blueprint.

With all the noise and confusion of today’s world, we believe that one year of intentional wholistic growth is the key to unlocking this generations true potential, leadership ability, identity and clarity of purpose – to thrive in life. There is alarming research, showing a major falling away from faith for this age group within their first year of university, and their goal is to disciple and empower students to walk out their faith with resilience to the secular culture of the times, but in a fun and lifestyle approach.

If you have children, grandchildren, friends or church communities with young adults who need a transformative year in their life, please share the news with them. You can find out more at https://pathfinder-impact.com, email at info@pathfinder-impact.com or call on 071-183-2631

We desire to provide our appreciation for the integral role of all pastors in spreading the ministry of Christ, our Saviour to the world. During the regular season, we welcome all pastors and their spouse to take a time of rest (emotional, physical and spiritual) at Carmel to restore and reconnect.

There is a special rate offered for a 2 night stay, including Sea View accommodation, breakfast and dinner for 2 people sharing.

The time is not a organised retreat but a time for you to take rest at a time that suits your schedule, within the loving community of Carmel.

If you are a pastor or would like to sponsor a couple’s retreat, please contact the Carmel office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za to find out more.

Experience our Group Hospitality

Carmel's ongoing legacy

If being a part of Carmel’s legacy is on your heart, we would love to share our vision and projects with you in more detail and how you can be a part of Carmel’s bright future.

“The Lord passed in front of Moses, calling out, “Yahweh! The Lord! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.”
Exodus 34: 6

Greetings from Carmel

Christmas is a time to celebrate that GOD’s unchanging will has always been to dwell with us. The Lord, Immanuel became a man to be Christ with us, pay the penalty for sin, and ultimately win the victory, for us to live the life of “Christ in us”. The Christmas story shows that He wants to be known by us and to reveal His unchanging character to us.

Throughout the scriptures we see examples how GOD used every opportunity to reveal Himself to His people. Every experience, either good or bad, causing laughter or weeping, hurting or healing, is an opportunity for us to know GOD more. A chance to see another aspect of His character and His heart for us.

We pray that as you enter this festive season, whether you are spending time with loved ones, whether you are grieving a loss, whether it is your busiest time or whether you able to have a rest, that you will see Jesus more clearly, experience Him near to you and you may know more of His character and is immeasurable love for you.

If you are in the area over the holiday period, we would love to welcome you to visit for the day. The School Holiday Programme is running until the 4th January and is filled with activities for kids and adults too. We also welcome you to come visit The Table Restaurant at Carmel for delicious food and coffee, while enjoying fellowship around the tables. Read more below.

May GOD bless and keep you and your loved ones. We send our love to you all, from Carmel.

Suzanne Mackay
The Carmel Trustees

The year-end School Holidays are a special time at Carmel, for all to come together for rest and a good amount of holiday fun.

The School Holiday programme at Carmel has begun and will be running through to the 4th January. Join the Carmel team for activities for kids of all ages and adults too… and for rest and restoration, our garden walks, many quiet spaces and chapel are perfect to gain the rest you may need (spiritual, emotional and physical). See the holiday programme below for 15-22 December and keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram pages for activity updates.

It’s not too late to stay over at Carmel over the holiday season. The Christmas to New Year week is almost fully booked across B&B and camping. If you miss this week, we still have a good number of available spaces for next week and the first few weeks in January. Be sure to book your camping or B&B accommodation soon to ensure you don’t miss out on these special times at Carmel.

If you are in the area, day visitors are welcome to join at R50p/p per day. Please call reception prior on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za to book as day visitor spaces are limited.

To experience School Holidays at Carmel, watch our school holiday’s video below.

The Table Restaurant & Shop

It’s been a year since The Table Restaurant and Shop opened to our Carmel guests. The Table has been an immense blessing to our guests, stay-over and day visitors, to have a space of fellowship and connecting over delicious food and coffee.

The daily menu is filled with options for all and the Sunday lunch gathering has become a Carmel tradition each week with a set menu. On Christmas day, we are hosting a special celebration lunch and all are welcome to join.

For more information and to make a reservation, you can call The Table on 079-538-4722 or email thetable.carmel@ethnosmi.org We look forward to serving you soon!

Experience Carmel Camping

Experience the beauty of Carmel’s Camping and Caravan Park, while enjoying the magnificent Victoria Bay and Outeniqua mountain views, resting in our quiet spaces and many activities too. Also visit the “The Table Restaurant” for your coffee fix, treats lunch and dinner during your stay.

Whether you are a single camper, couple, family, or group, we welcome you to our camping experience. Our sites are divided into small (1-2 people), medium (2-6 people), and large (4-8) to suit your booking requirements.

All sites have electricity and braai facilities and are close to the separate ladies and men’s ablutions which are serviced daily.

Experience Carmel Camping by watching our video below. For bookings, contact reception on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Pathfinder-Impact Gap Year Program

We are so excited to share the news with you of the launch of the Pathfinder-Impact Gap Year Program in February 2025, hosted at Carmel.

Pathfinder-Impact is a transformative discipleship Gap Year program founded by Gavin and Nicky Lloyd, and Johann and Naomi Verster from the OutdoorEco team.

Based on Romans 8:37: “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us”, their vision is to awaken a generation to thrive through traditional family values and be empowered to lead well in life through a Biblical foundation, identity and clear purpose. They do this through facilitating a personal development gap year program for young adults (18- to 24-year-olds) built around transformative lifestyle discipleship, vocation and life skills, disciplines, and team adventure experiences, helping them to become the leaders of tomorrow with faith and a Biblical Kingdom worldview. The curriculum is built on the Prothesis Blueprint as used by Target Life.

With all the noise and confusion of today’s world, they believe that one year of intentional wholistic growth is the key to unlocking this generations true potential, leadership ability, identity and clarity of purpose – to thrive in life. There is alarming research, showing a major falling away from faith for this age group within their first year of university, and our goal is to disciple and empower our students to walk out their faith with resilience to the secular culture of the times, but in a fun and lifestyle approach.

If you have children, grandchildren, friends or church communities with young adults who need a transformative year in their life, please share the news with them. You can find out more at https://pathfinder-impact.com, email at info@pathfinder-impact.com or call on 071-183 2631

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