&

 

 

Dedicated to IRIS

Iris Retreat exists as the result of a long-held personal intention rather than a commercial concept. It was created in dedication to my late mother, Iris. Her hope was that I would live a life shaped by contentment, independence, and a strong sense of place. Skeerpoort, north of Johannesburg, provided the setting in which that intention could be realised, and Iris Retreat developed naturally from that foundation.

- Christine Henry - 
 

THE BLUE BRIDGE

Steel girder bridge constructed approximately ninety years ago (“Kormorant Weekender” - 1 September 2016) – replaced in 1981 by a reinforced concrete bridge – No.4048. It is a single lane bridge of two 30m spans formed from Pratt Trusses supported on abutments and a single concrete pier. The bridge remains in regular use by our guests.

​

It is worth noting that the present-day bridge has its number plates installed contrary to specifications which state that: ‘Bridge numbers shall be positioned on the left side of the carriageway when facing in the direction of travel as shown in the details’. The bridge was originally painted blue, giving rise to the name ‘Blue Bridge’.

By (Konrad Voges, October 2019)

​

CONTEMPLATION

The retreat is designed to offer space, quiet, and unstructured time away from urban routines. It is a place to rest, read, walk, and spend time outdoors without schedules or expectations. Guests may choose to sit beside the river, use the grounds at their own pace, or simply remain still. The emphasis is on simplicity, privacy, and an environment that allows visitors to slow down.