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Ratelgat is a historical Griekwa farm on the Knersvlakte, 35 km from Van Rhynsdorp in the direction of Springbok. The Griekwa presence dates back to 1920 when the paramount Chief, Die Kneg, A. A. S. le Fleur 1(1867 - 1941) led his people to escape English Colonialism and to foster their Griekwa culture here. Ratelgat is a 9000 ha farm on the Knersvlakte, home to various indigenous succulent plants in real semi desert, remote, blue sky country. Apart from the entrance buildings at the gate next to the N7,you will find there the Matjieshuiskraal where 28 matjies houses, twin bedded units, were erected according to the old tradition. Senior members of the Griekwa people acted as mentors while young volunteers learned the trade of building these structures. They are all furnished in simple, traditional style. Bigger matjies houses serve as communal bathrooms with gas heated hot water and dry, odourless, natural fermentation toilet units. Food is prepared in the lapa - kitchen where breakfast, lunch and dinner are prepared on open fires and served by local hosts.