Pearl Valley, in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley, has recently undergone a number of significant changes that reflect its acquisition by neighbouring Val de Vie Estate and a consortium of partners. The beginning of February saw the achievement of an important milestone as residents were officially granted access to the full range of amenities offered by the amalgamation of the two properties signifying the formation of a new Val de Vie “super estate”.
Marketing Director at Val de Vie Estate, Ryk Neethling, comments: “Since merging with Pearl Valley, Val de Vie has an offering like no other estate in the country. Our residents and guests can now experience the finest that the Cape has to offer in terms of natural beauty, spaciousness and an array of sporting activities, cultural events and fine dining, all at one location.”
This includes shared access to the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, equestrian facilities, polo fields, vineyards, the L’Huguenot Venue & Vinoteque, fitness centres, swimming pools, tennis courts, running and cycling trails, and an outdoor boma area on the banks of the Berg River to name a few.
As part of this consolidation, a series of upgrades are currently underway at Pearl Valley to ensure it is seamlessly integrated with the rest of Val de Vie. A set of refurbishment works were recently completed at The Valley Restaurant and Bar which bring the establishment’s look and feel into alignment with Val de Vie’s signature of elegantly crafted, spacious interiors that incorporate natural light and air. Capable of comfortably seating 140 diners, the renovated restaurant boasts high ceilings and simple furnishings that create space and give the area an aura of simple elegance. Exposed white rafters and clean white walls brighten the room, whilst stonework pillars and raw timber finishes add texture and comfort. Large windows open out onto sprawling terraces where patrons can admire spectacular views of the golf course and the majestic Simonsberg Mountain.
Along with an impressive selection of award-winning wines, the restaurant offers a carefully crafted new menu with sumptuous traditional fare made using the freshest regional and imported produce. The bar boasts an adventurous yet refined new cocktail menu that includes delicacies such as the “Agave with Wings” – a sumptuous combination of 100% agave tequila, fresh lime juice and pureed kiwi strained into a chilled coupe glass with a rosemary flaked sea salt rim.
Whilst residents and guests enjoy the first set of upgrades, work will soon commence on Pearl Valley’s second phase of development which will see the creation of a conference venue with capacity for 250 delegates and an elegant new lounge for club members. Members will also benefit from the recent appointment of Golf Director, Damian Wrigley. With experience playing both provincial and premier league golf, as well as nine years of experience as the Director at Clovelly Country Club – where he was personally mentored by businessman Raymond Ackerman – Damian is a clear expert in his field. He is sure to be an asset to Pearl Valley Golf Club and its members.
The Pearl Valley Golf Course at Val de Vie will soon be further enhanced by the inclusion of The Pearl Valley Hotel, a luxury hotel developed and operated by the Mantis Collection. The hotel, which is scheduled to open in April this year, will consist of 40 single or double suites, split into 10 freestanding double storey buildings to maximize picturesque views over the greens, water features and surrounding mountains.
Concludes Neethling: “These recent developments serve to align Pearl Valley with the Val de Vie brand, and add to its five-star offering. The incorporation of Pearl Valley into the wider Val de Vie Estate has enabled us to offer unsurpassed lifestyle opportunities in a secure area where families can live out their dreams”.
