Five Beautiful Properties For Sale in South Africa’s Garden Route

It is widely believed that this particular area of South Africa has one of the world’s most spectacular drives. By hopping in the car and exploring this 200 kilometre stretch of road you will pass forested mountains, sprawling wetlands and white-sand beaches with picturesque towns dotted no more than a 45-minute drive apart. Mike Greeff, CEO of Greeff Properties, an exclusive affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate, says,

“The Garden Route, fondly known as ‘Garden of Eden’ is known for its splendour and unparalleled beauty. Apart from being a popular travel destination, extraordinary real estate opportunities are to be had all along this coastal stretch. There is something here for everyone, from beach homes and villas to security estates set on mountain slopes, amid lush golf courses, and that’s just for starters.”

Looking first at Knysa and Plettenberg Bay, Ling Dobson, Pam Golding Properties area principal in these locations, notes a marked increase in interest for both areas.

“Leisure Isle stock is at a premium in Knysa,”

she says.

“Houses are being snapped up and refurbished, hugely enhancing values. In Plettenberg Bay we are seeing the high-end sales up to R 32 million. The most exciting areas are the security estates of Whale Rock, Brackenridge as well as some high-end gentleman’s estates and all direct beach properties demand their premiums.”

Over in George, Stephen Murray, Pam Golding Properties manager for this particular area, reports that most byers are coming from up-country (Gauteng) and the Western Cape. He thinks this is due to their wish for a change in lifestyle.

“They want their families to live in this desirable part of the country and they are able to do business ‘remotely’,”

explains Mr Murray.

“George offers an airport (making it easier to commute), perception of crime free environment plays a role, and there are good schools and hospital facilities.”

Gated estates are hugely popular for a sense of security.

“Vacant land in these estates has been the majority of transactions and where there is still vacant stand stock left in the gated estates these will continue to sell,”

says Mr Murray.

“As vacant land becomes more scarce in these gated estates the land prices will go up in certain instances – the only counter to this is the building costs, which if they continue increasing too quickly it may apply pressure on the land prices.
“In these gated estates we anticipate that there will be some homes that will come on the market towards the middle of this year (currently there is a shortage) where some homes have been developed for an end user market buyer who doesn’t want to go through the building process. Gated estates will remain popular and are not as sensitive to price changes/economic conditions when compared to the general urban market.”

Fancourt, Montagu Ridge
Every room in this property on the prime, north-facing area of Montagu Ridge has magnificent Fancourt views. The living areas feature a centre fireplace and underfloor heating and all rooms have large windows to maximise the sunlight as well as views of the golf course and the distant Outeniqua Mountains. There are four beautifully decorated en suite bedrooms, a swimming pool and ample parking with garaging for two vehicles and a golf cart.
£1.26m / €1.41m / $1.54m
Pam Golding Properties
www.pamgolding.co.za

Franschhoek, Western Cape
Designed by award-winning architect Stefan Antoni, this property overlooks a beautiful dam with fabulous views of the Franschhoek valley and wine producing vineyards. A 20-metre long double-volume formal lounge and entertaining area with a 20-seater dining area flows into an expansive covered living and dining terrace which surrounds the pool.  With ample space for 16 people to sleep comfortably, there is a selection of living areas, as well as staff accommodation, shaded carport space and multiple bathrooms. The property comes complete with all furniture, fittings, beds, art, cutlery, crockery and ornaments. Its owner even promises to leave the wine cellar full with some of South Africa’s finest wines.
£5m / €5.6m / $6.1m
Christie’s International Real Estate
www.christiesrealestate.com

Pezula Private Estate, Knysna
Overlooking dramatic cliffs and rolling waves towards the Noetzie shoreline, this contemporary architectural masterpiece has 1,179m² of living space. It has been designed to encompass lifestyle and comfort while capitalising on the stunning views. Featuring a mono pitched copper roof, sandstone and large windows, it also has frameless glass stacking doors. There are four en suite bedrooms, his & hers studies, a gourmet kitchen, various lounges to capture the sun and views, a gym and large pool protected from the wind, plus a two-bedroom staff apartment with lounge.
£2m / €2.4m / $2.556m
Pam Golding Properties
www.pamgolding.co.za

Cutty Sark, Plettenberg Bay
The Art House is situated on the edge of a cliff to guarantee sweeping views of the bay and peninsula. This avant-garde, five-bedroom home has spacious open plan living areas and all modern comforts. Each bedroom has a full en suite bathroom and there is a games room and swimming pool. Not only does this two-storey home have an elevator but also a glass walkway allowing breathtaking, unobstructed views of the ocean and valley beyond.
£1m / €1.2m / $1.28m
Choice Properties
www.choicenet.co.za

Ulubisi House, Gondwana Game Reserve,Western Cape
Named after the Black Harrier that hunts in the grasslands surrounding the property, this private lodge is the most exclusive accommodation offering on the 11,000 hectare Big Five reserve. With 180-degree views of grass plains dotted with game, fynbos-covered hills and the Outeniqua mountain range, Ulubisi House is in the reserve’s 1,000-hectare protected walking area for endangered species. Sleeping either six adults or four adults and four children, the property comes with a full complement of staff, including its own butler, chef and field guide. There are three spacious bedroom suites and an enormous central living space with seating and dining areas overlooking an open grassy pan. A loft apartment is also available adjacent to the lodge for extra guests. Beds are positioned to face the waking bush but there’s no need to get up early – with a dedicated game ranger and a private game drive vehicle, guests set their own schedule. An expansive deck looks out on to magnificent views, while the swimming pool, hot tub and outdoor dining area complete the African experience.
From £2,255 / €2,525 / $2,755 per night
including staff, meals, beverages and activities
www.gondwanagr.co.za