Hello Carmel Newsletters

Hello Carmel August 2024

Hello Carmel Newsletter August 2024

You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.
Psalm 16:11 (NLT)

Greetings from Carmel

I would like to use Psalm 16 as a way for us to pray together:

Oh Lord, may You reveal to each of us, the way of life. Thank You that You are our refuge (v1) and that every good thing comes from You (v2). You, Lord, are our cup of blessing and our wonderful inheritance (v5 and 6). Thank You for providing guidance and instructing us, day and night (v7). May we always know that You are right beside us and so we need not be shaken (v8). Our hearts are glad, our souls rejoice, our bodies rest in safety (v9), for You will show us the way of life…in Your presence…forever (v11). Thank You for Your presence – we rejoice!!

In September, many retired individuals will be coming to stay at Carmel for the very special Prime Plus week with the theme of “A life of Joy”. Please join me as we pray for each person to be blessed during their stay (a few spots are still available). Later in the month, Ethnos Movement International will be hosting the Reach Conference at Carmel. This year the focus is on setting people free from bondage through the power of Christ. It seeks to unite churches in George and beyond through intercessory prayer, outreach, and evangelism. Please pray for all those who are preparing for this incredible week and if you would like to join, see below.

In August, two of our valued team members, Bethwell and Anton went into their retirement. Wouter (our GM) writes more below. From the Carmel Trustees, we give thanks for the valued role each have had in serving the ministry of Carmel over the many years. Please join us in praying for God’s blessings as they enter this new chapter of their lives. 

GOD bless and keep you all,

Suzanne Mackay 
The Carmel Trustees

Greetings from Operations

Since joining the Carmel team in 2022, I’ve been incredibly blessed to serve within the Carmel ministry, alongside our incredible team over these years. Our team are driven by the passion to serve our guests in creating a welcoming and loving place in which all are welcome to experience the restoring love of Christ.

Many of our team members have been at Carmel for over 10 years and as our lives pass by so quickly, two of our team members reached their retirement in August. Bethwell, for over a decade, was our custodian of the gardens and the many quiet places in which our guests seek rest and refuge. Anton was our Banqueting Manager for over 6 years, leading the team behind the delicious daily meals which brought us together for daily fellowship and sharing around the dining tables. As a family, regardless of role, each served our guests in a multitude of other ways as well, in being a part of our valued team.

Carmel Coastal Retreat
Carmel Coastal Retreat
Carmel Coastal Retreat

God brings various seasons into our lives and I give heartfelt thanks to their service and the integral part each played in our team. I pray that God blesses Bethwell and Anton as they begin this new season. As in Jeremiah 29:11, the Lord declares “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

In our future newsletter, I look forward to introducing our new members and welcoming them into the Carmel family.

If you would like to send a message to Bethwell or Anton, please click here to email me and I will pass your message onto them.

God bless,

Wouter Cloete 
General Manager

Greetings from the Ministry Team

In mid-September the Prime Plus week will commence, followed straight after by the Ethnos Reach Conference and Ethnos ‘For Freedom’ week. We pray for God’s blessing over each guest joining over this time. 

Also, our Pastor’s Appreciation Retreat continues to run until the end of November.

More details for these events can be read below and online.

Prime Plus: A Life of Joy

Monday 16th – Friday 20th September 2024 
Presented by: 
Harry and Margie Munnings with Heather Davies

Designed for retired people, the programme will focus on the life of Joy. The topics covered will be introduced and then used individually as times of quiet reflection or discussed in small groups.

Each morning, we will start with a time of worship in the chapel. We will enjoy a lovely breakfast and dinner in the Carmel dining room, and the usual great times of fellowship around the tables.

There will be plenty of free time to relax and enjoy the gardens, or rest. Also fun, including a visit to Victoria Bay beach, croquet, and short walks, and in the evenings; games and a movie night.

To fully experience the Prime Plus week we encourage you to stay at Carmel for the 5 days but day visitors are also welcome to join over the time. The options and pricing to attend Prime Plus can be found by clicking the link below.

To book your place, please contact the Carmel office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Pastors Appreciation Retreat, George, Garden Route

Until 30 November 2024 


Over the next 4 months, we desire to provide our appreciation for the integral role of all pastors in spreading the ministry of Christ, our Saviour to the world. Over this time 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 of 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.

Ethnos Ministry Events

During September, Carmel will be hosting the Ethnos Reach Conference from 20-22 September. The Reach conference is followed by their “For Freedom” week from 22-28 September.

The Reach Conference is tailored for Christian leaders, pastors, influencers and missionaries. To register for the Reach Conference, visit the Ethnos website at www.ethnosmi.org.

The ‘For Freedom” week is a movement dedicated to breaking chains of addiction, oppression, and modern-day slavery through Christ’s power. Ethnos unites individuals and churches in George and beyond to free those in bondage through prayer, campaigns, and outreach. For more details on the week, visit www.ethnosmi.org/forfreedom/

Ethnos Reach Conference
Ethnos For Freedom

Experience our Group Hospitality

Carmel Group Hospitality and George Coastal Retreats

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.

School Holidays at Carmel Coastal Retreat, George, Garden Route

15 December 2024 – 14 January 2025


The December 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 special 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

Carmel Prayer Room

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Room, 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. 

If you would like to share any words the Lord has given you during your prayer time for Carmel and the ministries, we would love to hear from you! You can email us at news@carmelmail.co.za

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.

Hello Carmel July 2024

Hello Carmel Coastal Retreat Newsletter

“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You! Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock. Lord, You will grant us peace; all we have accomplished is really from You.”
Isaiah 26: 3-4, 12 (NLT)

Greetings from Carmel

I was blessed to be one of the facilitators for the women’s retreat with Suria Scholtz (Ethnos), Debbie Veysie (George Methodist) and the rest of the team. We spent the weekend reflecting on the seasons of our lives with a recognition that every season, whether we experience it as “good” or “bad”, is an opportunity for the LORD to draw us to Him, reveal more of His character and refine who we are in Him.

Currently we are all having chilly, winter days, and it may be a mirror of how we are experiencing our spiritual life. I would encourage us to keep our thoughts fixed on our Father no matter the season we are in, trusting that because He is our eternally faithful foundation, He will keep us in perfect and constant peace.

We honour the Lord for how He has ministered to those who came to the Ethnos Ablaze Kids Camp and the Women’s retreat this past month at Carmel. The testimonies of Him personally meeting with so many have been truly incredible. Our annual Prime Plus Ministry event takes place in September and you can read more below in our Ministry section.

School Holidays are a special time at Carmel for all to come together to create memories to last a life time. As we enter Spring, we have the September school holidays and then the Summer time December/January holidays. We are almost fully booked for the year-end holidays so be sure to book your camping or B&B accommodation soon to experience school holidays at Carmel.

GOD bless and keep you all,

Suzanne Mackay 
The Carmel Trustees

Greetings from the Ministry Team

Earlier in July, we ran the annual Women’s Retreat and also had the privilege of hosting the Ethnos Ablaze Kids Camp. We give thanks to God for his incredible presence during these events and the blessings He brought upon all who attended.

From 16-20 September we will be running the annual Prime Plus week and our Pastor’s Appreciation Retreat runs until the end of November. Further details for these events can be read below with more info on our Ministry webpage.

Carmel Coastal Women's Retreat 2024

Our annual Women’s Retreat held in July was a glorious celebration of rest, wellness, creativity, quiet, worship and fellowship all wrapped together. 

Thanks to various speakers, the topics on “Navigating our Seasons and Cultivating our Hearts ABOVE All Else” were thoughtfully and creatively presented. 

Participants could choose from multiple workshops and activities on Saturday before we came together to celebrate God’s faithfulness as He met each woman needing encouragement. 

Through the gentle working of the Holy Spirit in each woman’s heart and a wild wind raging outside our chapel, we took holy communion on Sunday with joy and thankfulness – restored and repurposed!

Ethnos Ablaze Camp at Carmel Coastal Retreat

From the 1st – 3rd of July we had the privilege of hosting a kids camp called Ablaze. We had about 150 children and teens from our surrounding areas in George, including: Conville, Pacaltsdorp, Rosemore, Borcherds and Golden Valley.

The theme for the camp was Amazing Race, based off of Hebrews 12:1-2. The camp provided the space to encourage the kids on how to run the amazing race of life, by helping them to realize that God has created them on purpose for a purpose. And making them aware of how God is so intentional by giving them specific gifts and talents to use for His glory. But also encouraging them with stories from the Bible and certain characters who were born for a specific purpose. 

It was a week filled with lots of worship, learning about God, games and loving on the children! We are so grateful that we could host this Ethnos event and that Ethnos are just as invested in the next generation as we are!

Prime Plus, George, Garden Route

Monday 16th – Friday 20th September 2024 
Presented by: 
Harry and Margie Munnings with Heather Davies

Designed for retired people, the programme will focus on the life of Joy. The topics covered will be introduced and then used individually as times of quiet reflection or discussed in small groups.

Each morning, we will start with a time of worship in the chapel. We will enjoy a lovely breakfast and dinner in the Carmel dining room, and the usual great times of fellowship around the tables.

There will be plenty of free time to relax and enjoy the gardens, or rest. Also fun, including a visit to Victoria Bay beach, croquet, and short walks, and in the evenings; games and a movie night.

To fully experience the Prime Plus week we encourage you to stay at Carmel for the 5 days but day visitors are also welcome to join over the time. The options and pricing to attend Prime Plus can be found by clicking the link below.

To book your place, please contact the Carmel office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Pastors Appreciation Retreat, George, Garden Route

Until 30 November 2024 


Over the next 4 months, we desire to provide our appreciation for the integral role of all pastors in spreading the ministry of Christ, our Saviour to the world. Over this time 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 of 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.

School Holidays at Carmel Coastal Retreat, George, Garden Route

September: 21 – 29 September 2024
Year End: 12 December 2024 – 14 January 2025

The School Holidays are a special time at Carmel, for all to come together for rest and a good amount of holiday fun. Enjoy Carmel’s many indoor and outdoor activities, garden trails and quiet spaces and let us take care of your daily coffee fix, breakfast, lunch and dinner at the The Table Restaurant and Shop

For the full Carmel experience, book your camping or B&B accommodation or if you live nearby, join as us a day visitor to enjoy all that Carmel has to offer. 

On select days, the Carmel team run activities for kids of all ages and adults too. 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 our Group Hospitality

Carmel Group Hospitality and George Coastal Retreats

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.

Ethnos Ministry Events

Ethnos Ministry International will also be running their ‘Table Talks‘ and ‘PAUSE’ conferences on the below dates. You can contact Suria on 082 333 6201 to find out more and book.

Ethnos Ministry International ministry events

Carmel Prayer Room

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Room, 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. 

If you would like to share any words the Lord has given you during your prayer time for Carmel and the ministries, we would love to hear from you! You can email us at news@carmelmail.co.za

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.

Hello Carmel May 2024

Hello Carmel Hello Newsletter May 2024

“He who offers a sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving honours Me; And to him who orders his way rightly [who follows the way that I show him], I shall show the salvation of God.”
Psalm 50: 23 (AMP)

Greetings from Carmel

This Psalm of Asaph speaks of GOD preferring His people to offer the sacrifices of gratitude and right living. He encourages us to call on Him in our times of trouble and promises rescue for His honour and glory (v15).

Over the past few weeks, this Psalm has been brought to life while George has been reeling from the tragic events of the 6th May when a building collapsed in Victoria Street. An entire city was in shock and shared in the pain of the many families affected by the tragedy. However, there is a place for gratitude. Despite (and maybe even because of) the horrific circumstances, we have been grateful for our Father’s unchanging faithfulness (2 Timothy 2:13) and the ways Christ’s love has been made manifest through His people. We were able to witness a community pulling together in support and provision – the outpouring of love was a real testimony!

We have also been so grateful that through His provision for us at Carmel, we were able to host some of the rescue workers (human and canine) while they were working round the clock on the site. We were also able to provide meals for over 60 people for a week. We thank you for those who support our ministry from afar, as without this, we would not have been able to serve the community in this way. We would like to encourage you to please join us in continuing to pray for the families and the relief workers as they deal with the after effects of these last few weeks.

The June/July school holidays are a couple weeks away. Whether staying over during the time or visiting for the day, we welcome all to join us for rest and a good amount of holiday fun. Our upcoming ministry programmes are our Women’s Retreat weekend, running in early July and the Prime Plus week in September. You can find further details on these events below.

GOD bless and keep you all,

Suzanne Mackay 
The Carmel Trustees

Greetings from the Ministry Team

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

In early July we are hosting our Women’s Retreat weekend and in September the Prime Plus week. The details for these ministry events can be read below with further info on our Ministry webpage.

Carmel Womens Retreat, George, Garden Route

Friday 5th – Sunday 7th July 2024 
Presented by: 
Suria Scholtz, Suzanne Mackay, Arnel Huisamen, Helen Burnard and Debbie Veysie

Our Women’s Retreat is the perfect opportunity to PAUSE in the PRESENCE OF GOD, enter His rest (Spirit, Soul & Body), and allow His Word to re-centre and re-story your life for His eternal purposes and everlasting glory.

Over the weekend, there are seven sessions presented around the theme of “Navigating our seasons and cultivating our hearts above all else”. To fully experience the retreat we encourage you to stay at Carmel for the weekend but day visitors are also welcome to join over the 3 days. The options and pricing to attend the retreat can be found by clicking the link below.

Sessions summary:

  • Session 1: Discerning Times & Seasons
  • Session 2: Navigating our Seasons
  • Session 3: Cultivating Friendships & Worship
  • Session 4: Flourishing Factors
  • Session 5: Touch & Know
  • Session 6: Restored and Repurposed
  • Session 7: Worship, Communion & Sharing

To book your place, please contact the Carmel office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Prime Plus, George, Garden Route

Monday 16th – Friday 20th September 2024 
Presented by: 
Harry and Margie Munnings with Heather Davies


Designed for retired people, the programme will focus on the life of Joy. The topics covered will be introduced and then used individually as times of quiet reflection or discussed in small groups. 

Each morning, we will start with a time of worship in the chapel. We will enjoy a lovely breakfast and dinner in the Carmel dining room, and the usual great times of fellowship around the tables. 

There will be plenty of free time to relax and enjoy the gardens, or rest. Also fun, including a visit to Victoria Bay beach, croquet, and short walks, and in the evenings; games and a movie night. 

To fully experience the Prime Plus week we encourage you to stay at Carmel for the 5 days but day visitors are also welcome to join over the time. The options and pricing to attend Prime Plus can be found by clicking the link below.

To book your place, please contact the Carmel office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Pastors Appreciation Retreat, George, Garden Route

During 1 June – 30 November 2024 

Over the next 6 months, we desire to provide our appreciation for the integral role of all pastors in spreading the ministry of Christ, our Saviour to the world. Over this time 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.

School Holidays at Carmel Coastal Retreat, George, Garden Route

15 June 2024 – 8 July 2024

The School Holidays are a special time at Carmel, for all to come together for rest and a good amount of holiday fun. Enjoy Carmel’s many indoor and outdoor activities, garden trails and quiet spaces and let us take care of your daily coffee fix, breakfast, lunch and dinner at the newly opened The Table Restaurant and Shop

For the full Carmel experience, book your camping or B&B accommodation or if you live nearby, join as us a day visitor to enjoy all that Carmel has to offer. 

On select days, the Carmel team will run activities for kids of all ages and adults too. Watch our Facebook page for updates on the activities we will be running over the holiday period. 

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

For accommodation and day visitor bookings, contact the office on 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za

Experience our Group Hospitality

Carmel Group Hospitality and George Coastal Retreats

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.

Ethnos Ministry Events

Ethnos Ministry International will also be running their ‘Table Talks‘ and ‘PAUSE’ conferences on the below dates. You can contact Suria on 082 333 6201 to find out more and book.

Ethnos Ministry International ministry events

Carmel Prayer Room

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Room, 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.

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.

Hello Carmel April 2024

Hello Carmel Hello Newsletter April 2024

“There was a man named Jabez who was more honourable than any of his brothers… He was the one who prayed to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and expand my territory! Please be with me in all that I do and keep me from all trouble and pain!” And God granted him his request.”
1 Chronicles  4: 9-10

Greetings from Carmel

How wonderful it is to celebrate the blessing of life! In the light of Carmel’s 70th birthday, I have been reflecting on the legacy a lifetime can leave. Our 3 score and 10 years may seem to pass in the blink of an eye (Psalm 90:10), despite some seasons seeming long because of the challenges they bring. The author of Chronicles felt it important to honour Jabez, when all the rest in the genealogy were merely named. Jabez was described as honourable because of his prayer of submission to GOD. It points to a lifelong perspective he had of His Lord being the One from whom all blessing, protection and authority comes.

This passage is an encouragement to all of us to consider the legacy our time on this earth leaves behind and to hold lightly to things that have no eternal value. It lifts our perspective of the past and provides us with a sense of hope for our future, as we seek and submit to our Lord.

With this in mind, I would like to honour all those who have been part of the life of Carmel over the past 70 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.

Thank you, Father for Your faithfulness, Your continued presence and the transforming power of Your Spirit. We choose to submit to Your will for Carmel and echo Jabez’ prayer:  
Oh Lord, may You bless Carmel and expand its influence; may You always be present and protect us in all we do.

If you have a testimony or story of your times at Carmel over the 70 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.

The June/July school holidays are around the corner. The school holidays are a special time at Carmel for all to come together to create memories to last a life time. We are also still running our camping special until 31 May. All the details can be read below.

GOD bless and keep you all,

Suzanne Mackay 
The Carmel Trustees

School Holidays at Carmel Coastal Retreat, George, Garden Route

15 June 2024 – 8 July 2024 


The 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 special times at Carmel.

During the holiday time, the Carmel team runs 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.

Experience Carmel Camping

Carmel Camping Special, George, Garden Route

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.

Take advantage of the camping special until 31 May 2024. Reduced rates at R65 pp/ per night.

Whether you are a single camper, couple, family, or group, we welcome you to our camping experience. Our sites are divided into small, medium, and large to suit your booking requirements.

Contact our front office at 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za to book your camping experience.

Experience our Group Hospitality

Carmel Group Hospitality and George Coastal Retreats

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.

Ethnos Ministry Events

Ethnos Ministry International will also be running their ‘Table Talks‘ and ‘PAUSE’ conferences on the below dates. You can contact Suria on 082 333 6201 to find out more and book.

Ethnos Ministry International ministry events

Carmel Prayer Room

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Room, 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.

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.

Hello Carmel March 2024

Hello Carmel Hello Newsletter March 2024

“May you be full of His loving-favour and peace. Let us thank the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It was through His loving-kindness that we were born again to a new life and have a hope that never dies. This hope is ours because Jesus was raised from the dead.”
1 Peter 1: 2b-3 NLT

Greetings from Carmel

I love this time of year – the season of Lent and the preparation for Easter. Honouring our Immanuel, “GOD with us”, sacrificing Himself in full payment of our sins and then rising from the dead in victory over all death. Because of this sacrifice we have assurance of our freedom from all that holds us captive, healing for our brokenness, and comfort in our mourning (Isaiah 61: 1-4). We receive a new life; “born again” into a HOPE that is alive no matter the circumstances.

My prayer for us is, as we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection and victory over all darkness, we may receive PEACE IN ABUNDANCE and a LIVING HOPE. And as we face challenges or uncertain times as individuals and as a country, we may share the good news and declare life, hope and peace over every circumstance.

We welcome all to Carmel over the Easter weekend. On Friday evening we are having a traditional family Passover meal. On Easter Sunday our Sunrise Service will be at 6am, followed by hot-cross buns at Kaye’s Cafe and then our “Jesus is Risen” celebration breakfast and lunch. More details are below.

This is a very meaningful year for Carmel. On the 1st May, we turn 70 years since the Ministry of Carmel began. A full day of activities are planned for Wednesday 1st May (a public holiday) and a Family Day on Saturday 4th May. You can stay up to date via our social channels (Facebook/ Instagram) and we will send another newsletter with further details soon.

If you looking for a getaway over the Easter weekend, we still have B&B and campsites available. Find out more about our camping special below.

May you and your family have a blessed Easter.

God bless,

Suzanne Mackay 
The Carmel Trustees

Carmel Easter Celebrations

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

  • This coming Friday, join us for a traditional family Passover meal at 6pm, enjoying lamb, roasted on the spit, interactive activities and story telling, and songs of praise and worship.
  • 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 Passover meal on Friday evening and 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.

Carmel Easter Celebration

Experience Carmel Camping

Carmel Camping Special

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.

Take advantage of the camping special until 31 May 2024. Reduced rates at R65 pp/ per night.

Whether you are a single camper, couple, family, or group, we welcome you to our camping experience. Our sites are divided into small, medium, and large to suit your booking requirements.

Contact our front office at 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za to book your camping experience.

Experience Carmel for the day

Carmel April Day Visitors

Join us over the Easter weekend, to visit Carmel for the day. The Table Restuarant and Shop are open for your cappuccino fix and delicious food and treats too!

If you looking for some rest and quiet, enjoy our garden trails, quiet spaces and many garden benches overlooking the Vic Bay views.

Day Visitor Fee is R50 per adult / R40 per child under 12. Please call reception on 
044 889 0019 prior to arrival.

Experience our Group Hospitality

Carmel Group Hospitality and George Coastal Retreats

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.

Ethnos Ministry Events

Ethnos Ministry International will also be running their ‘Table Talks‘ and ‘PAUSE’ conferences on the below dates. You can contact Suria on 082 333 6201 to find out more and book.

Ethnos Ministry International ministry events

Carmel Prayer Room

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Room, 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.

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.

Hello Carmel February 2024

Hello Carmel Hello Newsletter February 2024

“The LORD Himself watched over you!
The LORD stands beside you as your protective shade.”
Psalm 121:5

Greetings from Carmel

I give thanks to our LORD for the blessing of a new year. I pray that as you journey, you may be blessed by increased revelation of who He is.

I have been considering our faith journey as is mirrored by the Israelite’s annual journey towards Jerusalem (inspired by avividlife.co.za and Suria Scholtz’s blog). The purpose of the journey was to affirm the centrality of faith in their lives and to seek GOD’s will and presence. As the people would journey, they would worship GOD using the Songs of Ascent (Psalms 120-134).

As we personally, and as the Carmel community, continue to journey, may we choose a similar heart-attitude. I thank the LORD for His unchanging faithfulness and that He journeys with us, providing guidance and protection.

We are busy finalising our Ministry Programmes for the year ahead and you can read more about the upcoming programmes below. Our mission is to spread the love of Christ to all who visit Carmel and our Ministry Programmes are at the heart of this.

This year is a very exciting for Carmel. On the 1st May, we turn 70 years since the Ministry of Carmel began. A full day of activities are planned for Wednesday 1st May (a public holiday) and a Family Day on Saturday 4th May. You can stay up to date via our social channels (Facebook/ Instagram) and we will send another newsletter with further details soon.

We also welcome all to Carmel on Easter Sunday, 31st March. Our Sunrise Service will be at 6am, followed by hot-cross buns at Kaye’s Cafe and then our “Jesus is Risen” celebration breakfast and lunch.

God bless and keep you and may your journey of the year ahead be filled with the blessings of our Heavenly Father.

Suzanne Mackay 
The Carmel Trustees

Greetings from the Ministry Team

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

Our upcoming Ministry event is “Know the Real Jesus”, presented by Alexander Venter and it is taking place at Carmel from the 7th – 10th March. You can find all the details about the programme on our Ministry Programmes webpage. You can join as a day visitor or stay over for the 3 nights for the full Carmel experience. Find out more here.

Carmel Ministry: Know the Real Jesus. Alexander Venter

Our future events in the planning are our Women’s Retreat over 5-7 July, Prime Plus, and the Pastor’s Retreat. More details will follow soon on our Ministry Programmes webpage. You can also send us your details on the Ministry Programmes webpage and we will email you the relevant programme details as soon as they become available.

Easter at Carmel Coastal Retreat

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. The cost is R140/pp for breakfast and R180/pp for 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.

Ethnos Ministry Events

Ethnos Ministry International will also be running their ‘Table Talks‘ and ‘PAUSE’ conferences on the below dates. You can contact Suria on 082 333 6201 to find out more and book.

Ethnos Ministry International ministry events

Greetings from Operations

In December, we were very excited to announce the opening of The Table Restaurant and Shop. We pray that The Table will be of immense blessings to all who visit Carmel, a place for fellowship and community, while enjoying delicious food and coffee.

I give thanks to God for his blessings over the December School Holidays, and for the Carmel and Ethnos teams and our Carmel Height’s community for helping to create a special and blessed time for all who visited. View our December highlights video.

Following the year-end holidays, the Carmel and Ethnos teams are back to work on various projects to prepare the grounds for the season ahead. Our goal is to reach, serve and impact the local George community and the larger Body of Christ. I look forward to updating you on these projects in our next newsletter and Facebook page.

Please can you keep us in your prayers, for God’s hand to be over the teams at work, in preparing the grounds for the ministry of God to be glorified for all who visit Carmel.

The team and I look forward to welcoming you to Carmel soon.

God bless,

Wouter Cloete 
General Manager

The Table Restaurant at Carmel Coastal Retreat
Christian Retreats, Carmel, George, Garden Route, Western Cape

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 refocus for the year ahead. 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.

School Holidays at Carmel Coastal Retreat

The 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 special times at Carmel

Western Cape School Holidays

June / July 
15 June 2024 – 8 July 2024 

December / January 
12 December 2023 – 14 January 2024 

During the holiday time, the Carmel team runs 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.

Carmel Prayer Room

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Room, 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.

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.

Hello Carmel December 2023

Hello Carmel Hello Newsletter December 2023

Mary responded, “Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. How my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour! For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and from now on all generations will call me blessed.”
Luke 1:46-48

Greetings from Carmel

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a blessed Christmas time as we meditate on the meaning of our Saviour’s birth. The Messiah, who is GOD Himself, gave up His nature to take on our likeness (Phil 2: 6-7); to be “GOD with us”; IMMANUEL. May our response to this amazing truth be the same as Mary’s – “I am the Lord’s servant, my soul praises you Lord, my spirit rejoices in You.” 

This has been an incredible year of transition, and fruition at Carmel, and we are so grateful for your ongoing support and prayers through it all. 

If you are traveling over this period, we pray for safe travels for you and your loved ones. 

If you are in George over the school holidays, we welcome you to come by as a day visitor to partake in the many activities available for the whole family or to simply take rest in our gardens and quiet spaces, while admiring the majestic Victoria Bay views. To find out more and book your day visit, please contact us on 044-889-0019. 

We are also very excited to have launched The Table Restaurant and Shop, in partnership with Ethnos. At The Table, we envision a space where people can gather around a table to share ideas while enjoying delicious food and coffee – a place where family, community, hospitality and grace is celebrated. The Shop is also filled with delicious treats, ice cream, coffee and drinks and curios for you. Please pop in while you are enjoying the activities, gardens and swimming pool. 

GOD bless and keep you and may the new year be filled with the blessings of our Heavenly Father. 

Suzanne Mackay 
The Carmel Trustees

Greetings from Operations

Over the past couple months, the Carmel and Ethnos teams have been hard at work in preparing the grounds for the season ahead. Our goal is to reach, serve and impact the local George community and the larger Body of Christ.

Together we have been able to commence various projects in working towards this common goal. We have been sharing the progress of these developments on our social channels (Facebook / Instagram) and I want to extend our heartfelt thanks for the many words of encouragement and support being sent from far and wide. You can view last month’s newsletter and the updates on these projects by clicking here.

We are very excited and blessed to be able to introduce to you the opening of The TableRestaurant and Shop. We pray that The Table will be of immense blessings to all who visit Carmel, a place for fellowship and community, while enjoying delicious food and coffee. You can download the dining menu by clicking here.

The Table Restaurant at Carmel Coastal Retreat

The Ethnos Skills Development Centre is still on the go and will resume in the new year. The centre will serve the local George community in providing skills in woodwork, maintenance, and building, to equip people to obtain work in these areas.

There is still much work to be done on these current projects and new projects planned for the new year. Please can you keep us in your prayers, for God’s hand to be over the teams at work, in building the grounds for the ministry of God to be glorified for all who visit Carmel.

The team and I look forward to welcoming you to Carmel soon.

God bless,

Wouter Cloete
General Manager

Experience Carmel for the day

Experience Carmel Coastal Retreat for the day

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

If you are in the George area over the school holidays, we are running 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).

For enquiries around the daily activities and to book your day visit, please keep an eye on our Facebook page or call reception on 044 889 0019. The day visitor fees are R50/adult and R40/child (under 12 years).

To experience the December school holidays at Carmel, watch our December holiday highlights video below.

2024 Fresh Start Getaway Specials

Sometimes we need a holiday from the holidays. A time to rest and restore for the new year ahead.

Take advantage of our Fresh Start Getaway Specials from the 7th–31st January 2024. We have specials for Camping and B&B accommodation.

Carmel B&B Special 2024. Extra Night Free when booking 2+ nights
Carmel Camping Special 2024. Reduced rates from 7 - 31 January 2024

Contact reception on 044-889-0019 or email us at bookings@carmelmail.co.za to book your Fresh Start Getaway experience.

Christian Retreats, Carmel, George, Garden Route, Western Cape

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 refocus for the year ahead. 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.

Carmel Prayer Room

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Room, we pray in the chapel every Wednesday morning from 07h00 – 08h00. If you are not able to join, we have created a dedicated email newsletter which you can sign-up on the link below and we will keep you updated.

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.

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.

Hello Carmel October 2023

Hello Carmel Hello Newsletter October 2023

“But now the Lord says: Be strong, all you people still left in the land. And now get to work, for I am with you, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. My Spirit remains among you, just as I promised when you came out of Egypt. So do not be afraid.”
Haggai‬ ‭2:4‭b-‬5‬ NLT‬‬

Greetings from Carmel

In finding the words for the message brewing in my mind, I turned to the books of Joshua and Haggai. Books and passages The Lord strongly impressed on my heart for the season Carmel currently is journeying through.

Donald Miller, in his book, “A Thousand Years in a Million Miles,” concludes that all of us are part of a beautiful big story. Life itself is, therefore, a story, and we have a role to play with the power to shape our corner in the bigger drama. In this story, we, on occasion, find almost insurmountable challenges, times of despair, heartache, confusion, opposition, and sometimes darkness. We also discover opportunity, mountaintop experiences, faith, love, hope, and light.

Sarah Clarkson, in “Book Girl,” comes to a similar understanding. She writes: “To know yourself as an agent in the story of the world, one able to bring light and goodness amid suffering, is a profoundly empowering knowledge…” She later continues and recognises that Scripture is also our story, the one in whose decisive battles we are caught. The narrative drew us into the conflict of Light and Darkness, requiring us to decide which part we would play.

We see the same invitation to Joshua and later to Zerubbabel. To get involved. It was an invitation to be obedient but repeated encouragements accompanied it to be strong and courageous and not to be afraid, concluding with a massive promise. “I WILL BE WITH YOU.”

Carmel and Ethnos are embarking on an exciting new season. We dream and build with the assurance that He is with us.

In this month’s newsletter, we share some exciting new projects we are embarking on in preparing the ground for the season ahead. In December, we look forward to welcoming back decade long friends and many new guests to experience December holidays at Carmel. If you are looking for a holiday from the holiday, take advantage of our Fresh Start Getaway Special from 7-31 January 2024.

May GOD bless and keep you.

Coen Scholtz 
The Carmel Trustees

2024 Fresh Start Getaway Specials

Sometimes we need a holiday from the holidays. A time to rest and restore for the new year ahead.

Take advantage of our Fresh Start Getaway Specials from the 7th–31st January 2024. We have specials for Camping and B&B accommodation.

Carmel B&B Special 2024. Extra Night Free when booking 2+ nights
Carmel Camping Special 2024. Reduced rates from 7 - 31 January 2024

Contact reception on 044-889-0019 or email us at bookings@carmelmail.co.za to book your Fresh Start Getaway experience.

Greetings from Operations

Last month, we spoke of our developing partnership with Ethnos. Through God’s leadership, we have been utilising each other’s strengths in preparing the ground to reach, serve and impact the local George community and the larger Body of Christ.

Together we have been able to commence various projects in working towards this common goal.

Our first exciting project on the go is the development of an Ethnos Skills Development Centre. What used to be our large maintenance shed, has been broken down for the development of this centre. The centre will serve the local George community in providing skills in woodwork, maintenance, and building, to equip people to obtain work in these areas.

Our teams have also been at work in rebuilding the outside dining room deck to extend the dining area outside and add an outside roof too. Within the dining space, there are also plans underway to provide guests a full-time restaurant, coffee shop and bakery. We look forward to sharing more news as our plans develop.

Rebuilding, extending and adding a roof to the Carmel dining room outside deck

Last for this month, Bethwell and the team have built our own greenhouse, and our first vegetables are already growing. Soon your daily meals will include our own sustainable, locally grown produce.

Carmel greenhouse, ready for sustainable and locally grown vegetables

All these projects will allow us to serve the larger community in welcoming guests to Carmel in the presence of God. Please can you join us in prayer over this exciting season ahead. For God’s hand to be over the teams at work, in preparing the grounds for the ministry of God to be gloried for all who visit Carmel.

The team and I look forward to welcoming you to Carmel soon.

Wouter Cloete
General Manager

Come together for family time, rest and fun

December School Holidays at Carmel Coastal Retreat

14 December 2023 – 16 January 2024

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

There are just a few B&B and Camping spots still available and availability over the Christmas long weekend (22-26 December).

The Carmel team will be running 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 the December school holidays at Carmel, watch our December holiday highlights video below.

Whether you are staying over or a day visitor, we look forward to you joining us over the school holidays. For enquiries around accommodation and day visitors, please email bookings@carmelmail.co.za or call reception on 044 889 0019.

Christian Retreats, Carmel, George, Garden Route, Western Cape

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 refocus for the year ahead. 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.

Carmel Prayer Room

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Room, we pray in the chapel every Wednesday morning from 07h00 – 08h00. If you are not able to join, we have created a dedicated email newsletter which you can sign-up on the link below and we will keep you updated.

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.

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.

Hello Carmel September 2023

Hello Carmel Hello Newsletter September 2023

“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” 
Ephesians: 4-6

Greetings from Carmel

It is such a privilege to be a part of the body of Christ – to be the body through which GOD continues His work here on earth! Each part has been given a specific gift and role to play but only has meaning when working together with the rest of the body, under Christ’s leading, Who is the head. It is evident when the different parts are working in unity, the ministry is multiplied to the glory of GOD. 

Carmel is a place, and a group of people, with immense gifts to share with the rest of the body. However, in isolation, we are only able to just touch on the potential of our ministry. Within the Lord’s economy, when two or more parts of the body work in unity, the result is multiplication in the ministry. Working together with the Ethnos Movement International (EMI), we can see a new season where together we are able to increase our role in equipping people and building up the body of Christ. Through the partnership, both parts are blessed and able to be more of a blessing than each can be on their own. 

Carmel and Ethnos share a mutual commitment to reach and impact the local George community and the larger Body of Christ with the message of hope, peace, and restoration. Our goal is to offer hope and healing by providing a place for people from all walks of life to find renewal and be equipped, to impact their communities for Christ. We share the core values of restoration and training. If you would like to read more about Ethnos, please click here

We are excited to share the fruit of these plans as we take each step. For those of you living near George, follow us on social media (Facebook and Instagram) to see when we have worship events, prayer meetings, prophetic art workshops and more. In October, we have a 4 day Pastor’s Retreat (read more below) for pastors to receive refreshing, support and equipping and the Ethnos REACH Conference at the end of September (more below).

As the warmer summer months return, our campsites and B&B Sea View rooms fill up quickly, especially over the December/January school holidays (find out about the school holidays below). The weather in George is perfect for the many wonderful hikes and beaches nearby while getting all the rest you need in our beautiful gardens and quiet places, all while admiring the Victoria Bay Views. Be sure to contact us soon as you plan your next getaway.


May GOD bless and keep you.

Suzanne Mackay 
The Carmel Trustees

Greetings from the Ministry Team

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

Our upcoming Ministry event is the Pastor’s Retreat. To stay up to date on future Ministry Events, visit our Ministry Programmes webpage here.

Carmel Ministry Events_ Pastor's Retreat

Ministry Leaders Retreat 
Presented by Derek & Beryl Puffett 
Date: 10 – 13 October 2023

Our Pastors Refreshing Retreat is designed to be a place of healing and restoration for pastors, especially those who are struggling in difficult personal situations, or those who have become exhausted in the battle and are desperately in need of rest and recuperation.

-Restore
The Pastors Refreshing Retreat provides the opportunity for complete rest, support, care and personal prayer ministry.

-Refresh 
This specially designed retreat is not intended merely as holiday breakaway from everyday life, but as time given to God for Him to work deeply in the lives of those who attend.

-Re-envision 
The retreat is not built around a structure of formal meetings. The retreat is led by the experienced Ellel Leaders and simply offers space, time and care to facilitate God’s restoration for your whole being: body, soul and spirit.

Whether you need personal restoration or are seeking the Lord for direction and renewed vision for your life and ministry, this specialised pastor’s retreat will provide the necessary secure and loving environment.

Over the time of the retreat, the programme facilities rest (Garden time with God), 3 topics of teaching, creativity sessions to connect with God and prayer ministry times.

The three topics of teaching during the retreat are:

  • The importance of forgiveness in ministry (application)
  • Emotional healing
  • The calling of a Leader

There are three options to join, including the programme fees

Day visitor: R1,470/per person 

  • Tuesday dinner, Wednesday/Thursday lunch and dinner, and Friday lunch (no breakfasts)

Shared: Stay over (3 nights): R2,520/per person sharing

  • 2-person shared Sea View accommodation (3 nights)
  • All meals included: Tuesday dinner, Wednesday/Thursday breakfast, lunch, dinner, Friday breakfast and lunch.

Single: Stay over (3 nights): R2,985/per person

  • Sea View accommodation (3 nights)
  • All meals included: Tuesday dinner, Wednesday/Thursday breakfast, lunch, dinner, Friday breakfast and lunch.

To learn more about the Retreat facilitators, Derek and Beryl Puffett, from Ellel Ministries in Africa, click here.

The programme starts on Tuesday, 10 October at 16h00 and ends at 14h00 on Friday 13 October.

To book your place, please email bookings@carmelmail.co.za or call the office on 
044 889 0019.

Christian Retreats, Carmel, George, Garden Route, Western Cape

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 refocus for the year ahead. 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.

Come together for family time, rest and fun

December School Holidays at Carmel Coastal Retreat

14 December 2023 – 14 January 2024

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


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 December school holidays at Carmel, watch our December holiday highlights video below.


To book your school holiday camping or B&B accommodation, please click to contactus or call the office on 044 889 0019.

Reflecting on our past Ministry Events

Carmel Ministry_Prime Plus

The Prime Plus: Creative Ageing Retreat in July was a life changing 5 days for all, facilitated by Margie Munnings and Heather Davies. The retreat included teaching by Trevor Hudson on the matter of Creative Ageing. The time also included worship in the Carmel chapel, sharing in groups, delicious meals shared together, music and games evenings, and very special times of personal testimonies shared amongst one another.

The week was also a time of great adventures and all myths were dispelled about ageing as some extremely active seniors took to the mountains, beaches, and croquet field. For some, it was also a time of getting together with old friends and playing “remember when”. Who says that only youngsters can go on camp and have heaps of fun? 

Prime Plus 2024 is already in the planning for the 16th – 20th September 2024.

Carmel Ministry_Womens Retreat

The Women’s Retreat in August was facilitated by Katharine Marsden and Suria Scholtz. The retreat was lovingly designed to create space and time for women to sit at the feet of Jesus – in joyful worship and quiet devotion. The group gathered around His Word as they explored the humility, heroism and humanity of Elijah (1 Kings 17-19) and formed the basis for the daily creative activities, nature walks, and debriefing exercises. 

With “the ruthless elimination of hurry” as motivation, this laid-back retreat aimed to bring women closer to God to discern His still, small voice better. We can’t receive new assignments unless we stop running, fearful and confused, rest our bodies, quiet our minds, & re-focus our hearts on the Holy One. While we all know that such radical re-alignment to God’s will and ways always bears abundant fruit in our relationships with our spouses, children, families, colleagues, and even strangers, it is easier said than done in our fast-paced societies.

Carmel Prayer Room

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Room, we pray in the chapel every Wednesday morning from 07h00 – 08h00. If you are not able to join, we have created a dedicated email newsletter which you can sign-up on the link below and we will keep you updated.

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.

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.

Hello Carmel July 2023

Hello Carmel Hello Newsletter July 2023

 “And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. For the new wine would burst the wineskins, spilling the wine and ruining the skins. New wine must be stored in new wineskins.”
Luke 5: 37-38

Greetings from Carmel

One of our intercessors received a dream about Carmel during this past week. It was a vision of Carmel restoring the current ground and increasing our influence. In celebration some of our leaders were sharing a bottle of wine. The wine was almost finished but there was a promise of more. In the dream, the leader encouraged those surrounding him to share out the last of the bottle so that they could open the new.

Firstly, this is such an encouragement that our Father speaks to us, and over us. Secondly, it speaks of restoring what has come before. It also points to a new beginning and growth which we can celebrate. Wine symbolises a new covenant, provision, celebration, and the Holy Spirit. We are encouraged to pursue the GOD who is always faithful to His promises, to complete the ministry set before us with generous hearts, trusting for provision in this new season.

This past weekend, Carmel’s leaders have been prayerfully discerning where GOD is leading Carmel’s ministry and how best to work towards this vision. There are some exciting plans for the coming months to better utilise the spaces we have available for ministry, build additional classrooms and conferencing venues, and equip and empower the ministry team living and working at Carmel. 

We have some school groups visiting and we pray for their time to be blessed. Please don’t delay to book for the Women’s Retreat which will be a time to seek GOD’s voice in the midst of life. We are also excited to welcome Beryl and Derek Puffett who will be hosting a pastor, missionary and ministry leader’s retreat in October. We hope that many people in the ministry will receive rest and refilling during this week. If anyone would like to sponsor a ministry leader please contact us.

May GOD bless and keep you.

Suzanne Mackay 
The Carmel Trustees

Christian Retreats, Carmel, George, Garden Route, Western Cape

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 refocus for the year ahead. 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.

Come together for family time, rest and fun

October School Holidays at Carmel Coastal Retreat

30 September – 9 October 2023

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


The Carmel team will be running 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 holiday highlights video below.


Whether you are staying over or a day visitor, we look forward to you joining us over the school holidays. To book your school holiday accommodation, please click to contact us or call the office on 044 889 0019.

Experience our Winter Special at Carmel

Until the end of August 2023, we are running a Winter Special! When booking 2+ nights, receive 30% off your B&B accommodation! And for the winter camping enthusiasts, receive 50% off our campsite accommodation when booking 2 nights+.


Break away from the busyness of life to rest and restore, while you enjoy our beautiful gardens, quiet places, B&B sea view rooms or camping options, Victoria Bay views and dining.

Experience our Winter Special at Carmel

The discount is from regular season pricing and additional dining options are at  standard pricing.

Greetings from the Ministry Team

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

Read more below on our upcoming programmes and to stay informed about future ministry events visit our Ministry webpage.

Carmel Ministry Events_ Ministry Leader's Retreat

Ministry Leaders Retreat 
Presented by Derek & Beryl Puffett 
Date: 10 – 13 October 2023

Our Ministry Leaders Retreat is designed to be a place of healing and restoration for pastors, especially those who are struggling in difficult personal situations, or those who have become exhausted in the battle and are desperately in need of rest and recuperation.

 – Restore 
The retreat provides the opportunity for complete rest, support, care and personal prayer ministry for those in key, full-time positions of leadership within a church, organisation or business.

– Refresh 
These specially designed retreats are not intended merely as holiday breaks away from everyday life, but as time given to God for Him to work deeply in the lives of those who attend.

– Re-envision 
This retreat is not built around a structure of formal meetings. They are led by the experienced Ellel leaders and simply offer space, time and care to facilitate God’s restoration for your whole being: body, soul and spirit.

Whether you are in need of personal restoration or are seeking the Lord for direction and renewed vision for your life and ministry, these specialised leaders’ retreats provide the necessary secure and loving environment.

To learn more about the presenters, Derek and Beryl Buffett, click here. For further enquiries and to book your place, please contact us or call the office on 044 889 0019.

Carmel Ministry Events_ Women's Retreat

Women’s Retreat
Presented by Katharine Marsden & Suria Scholtz
18 – 20 August 2023

The Still, Small Voice: Finding GOD in the midst of life
Based on 1 Kings 19

This women’s weekend retreat is an opportunity to create a sacred space in your life, to wait upon the Lord in the beauty of His creation and be refreshed, renewed and strengthened.

Over the course of the weekend we will be exploring God’s narrative in our lives as we ‘re-remember’ our lives in the context of a loving God who knows us in our inmost being. We will be using contemplative practices including prayer walks, meditation and periods of silent reflection to allow God to work his unforced rhythms of grace in us.

There are three options to join:

Day visitor: R990/per person

  • Programme Fees
  • Friday dinner, Saturday lunch and dinner, and Sunday lunch (no breakfasts)

Shared: Stay over (2 nights): R1560/per person sharing

  • 2 person shared Sea View accommodation (2 nights)
  • Programme Fees
  • All meals included: Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday breakfast and lunch.

Single: Stay over (2 nights): R1870/per person

  • Sea View accommodation (2 nights)
  • Programme Fees
  • All meals included: Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday breakfast and lunch.

To book your place, please email bookings@carmelmail.co.za or call the office on 044 889 0019.

Carmel Prayer Room

If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Room, we pray in the chapel every Wednesday morning from 07h00 – 08h00. If you are not able to join, we have created a dedicated email newsletter which you can sign-up on the link below and we will keep you updated.

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.

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.

Recent Newsletters

Hello Carmel July 2024

“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You! Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock. Lord, You will grant us peace; all we have accomplished is really from You.”
Isaiah 26: 3-4, 12 (NLT)

Read Newsletter »

Hello Carmel May 2024

“He who offers a sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving honours Me; And to him who orders his way rightly [who follows the way that I show him], I shall show the salvation of God.”
Psalm 50: 23 (AMP)

Read Newsletter »

Hello Carmel April 2024

How wonderful it is to celebrate the blessing of life! In the light of Carmel’s 70th birthday, I have been reflecting on the legacy a lifetime can leave. Thank you, Father for Your faithfulness, Your continued presence and the transforming power of Your Spirit.

Read Newsletter »

Hello Carmel March 2024

“May you be full of His loving-favour and peace. Let us thank the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It was through His loving-kindness that we were born again to a new life and have a hope that never dies. This hope is ours because Jesus was raised from the dead.”
1 Peter 1: 2b-3 NLT

Read Newsletter »