A new secure residential estate is being developed in Ceres – and agents Pam Golding Properties (PGP). Ceres Golf Estate is being laid out around the town’s existing nine-hole golf course, which will be upgraded to a full 18-hole course by the time the development is completed. The first phase of plots has come onto the market with prices ranging from R660 000 to R990 000 inclusive of VAT.
PGP’s project manager for the development, Louise Varga, says the estate will offer an outstanding location both for weekend getaways and permanent residence. “The town of Ceres is one of the most picturesque in the Cape,” she says, “lying in the fertile Breede River Valley at the foot of the Witzenberg mountains. In winter it is regularly blanketed in snow, while in summer the valley’s world-famous fruit orchards and vineyards bask in warm sunshine. The scenery is almost Alpine-like, with craggy mountains towering over the valley and welcoming visitors to a town renowned for its warm hospitality and leisurely way of life. And being just 145km from Cape Town and its international airport Ceres is easily accessible for weekends away from the hustle and bustle of the city. For those considering permanent residence, the town offers its own hospital, medical practices, primary and high schools, as well as shopping and other amenities.”
Ceres Golf Estate will ultimately consist of 289 residential units, to be developed in three phases. The initial phase of 80 erven has only 50 still available for sale, ranging in size from 440sqm to 675sqm. Buyers will be able to build their own dream home in accordance with the estate’s strict design guidelines. The over-arching design theme is one of contemporary Cape Vernacular homes.
Varga says the development has been laid out with careful regard for the pristine environment, ensuring minimal density of housing and protection of each home’s privacy and views. “An environmental management policy will also ensure that the natural fauna and flora are protected,” she says, “while water resources are soundly managed – including rehabilitation of the river running through the estate. The idea is to encourage a sense of living in harmony with nature, and for residents to enjoy a wholesome, tranquil lifestyle in this most serene of settings.”
Top-notch security will ensure that residents are able to enjoy this lifestyle with peace of mind. Features will include 24 hour manned security, an access controlled entrance, and electrified perimeter fencing.
The golf course expansion will be overseen by Danie Obermeyer, whose extensive local and international experience will contribute to preserving the best of the existing course while enhancing the experience for golfers with a new modern design. A state-of the-art clubhouse will form part of the development’s second phase, offering a Pro-shop, caddy services and parking for golf carts, as well as communal facilities such as a function venue, squash courts, social lounge and bar. Also on the cards for this phase of the project are equestrian facilities, a wellness centre and spa.
Residents will be able to utilise a 6km walkway which will encircle the estate, ideal for walking, cycling, jogging or horse-riding. They will also enjoy direct access into the adjacent Ceres Nature Reserve with its outstanding fynbos environment. The Cederberg mountains and Route 62 are also readily accessible from the town for holiday breakaways. And for those more active residents, snowboarding can be enjoyed in winter – Ceres being one of few locations in South Africa where snow can be regularly expected and easily reached.
Varga adds that the town will soon offer one additional novelty – a steam engine train which will travel weekly between Cape Town and Ceres, stopping in Wellington en route. “The old Transnet railway line is being reinstated to offer this tourist service, as well as a freight service for carrying fruit and other agricultural products out of the valley on a daily basis,” she says. “Not only will this offer residents a delightful leisure opportunity, but it will also lessen traffic congestion by moving some of the heavy freight off the roads and onto rail. The envisaged train station will have a romantic vintage design, and there is even the possibility of an overnight sleeper carriage being developed for a truly unique olde worlde experience.”
