... making it the go-to coastal base for anyone seeking fair and responsibly operated accommodation along this iconic holiday route! In Toto Retreat was visited by a local auditor to verify that the comprehensive requirements for FTT Certification were in place, including its commitment to local procurement, responsibly managing its environmental impacts, and ensuring fair wages and working conditions, to name a few. We are thrilled to welcome this dedicated team to the FTT community.
Fully powered by the sun, this independently owned 4-star guest house can be booked by the room – each named for one of the Garden Route’s unique natural features – or for exclusive use. Located on the shores of the Swartvlei Lagoon in Sedgefield, guests at In Toto Retreat can visit any of the beautiful beaches for which the Garden Route is renowned or make use of its kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to go in search of the abundant local birdlife. The In Toto team also provides some great tips about unique things to see and do in the area, including browsing at the local Wild Oats Community Farmer’s Market (where In Toto purchases some of its fresh produce), the Mosaic Village and Outdoor Market, and the Scarab Arts & Crafts Village – all a treat for the senses and fantastic opportunities to experience locally inspired food and artistic creations!
Co-owner of In Toto Retreat, Roland Vorwerk, has been dedicated to the journey of achieving FTT-Certification since taking over the property nearly 2 years ago. “It is part of our commitment to deliver an all-encompassing In Toto experience. We are aware of the splendid natural beauty and cultural heritage that the Garden Route offers our guests, and our responsibility to be custodians of this heritage for future generations to enjoy. We value our engagement and partnerships with local community and conservation actors in Sedgefield and the Garden Route.
The resources and support that FTT made available to us provided fantastic guidance and enabled us to learn from a range of best sustainability practices. We are excited to join a community of leading responsible tourism businesses in Southern Africa that are adding value to the communities and environments in which they operate. As a team we have become more aware of the importance of inclusive workplace policies that are transparent. We look forward to the journey ahead with our team, FTT certified peers, guests, and partners."
Lisa Scriven of FTT, shared her delight at having In Toto Retreat join the FTT community. “In Toto’s commitment to offering an experience that is fully aligned with FTT principles is inspiring. From operating with sensitivity for the natural environment to their involvement in local socio-economic development - they are a shining example of how even smaller businesses can have immense positive impacts on the destination when that is the goal they set."
Anyone visiting the Garden Route is encouraged to choose hosts such as In Toto Retreat – businesses offering memorable experiences in a way that ensures this coastal paradise is taken care of for future generations. Day trips from In Toto can include FTT-Certified ocean- and forest-based activities along the Garden Route; find them at https://www.fairtradetourism.org/explore/region/garden!
About In Toto Retreat – Garden Route
Indulge in elegance, tranquillity and scrumptious breakfasts at this 4-star hybrid solar powered guesthouse located in Sedgefield, the heart of the Garden Route. Our 6 individually styled spacious suites and garden view rooms are a perfect base for travellers wanting to explore the wonders of the Garden Route. Guests are invited to slow down and reconnect with themselves and others. Enjoy natural displays of wonder on one of the many forest and fynbos hiking and mountain biking trails, or sitting quietly at lakeside bird hides. For those in search of some adrenalin, Sedgefield and its surrounds offers the best paragliding locations in South Africa. We support local environmental and community organisations – leaving sustainable footprints for future visitors and generations to enjoy the Garden Route.
Contact:
Roland Vorwerk, Director
E: roland(at)intotoretreat.co.za
T: +27 (0) 82 466 1257
W: https://intotoretreat.co.za