A river runs through it

A popular Mpumalanga tourist destination's appeal is boosted by the launch of affordable eco-golf estate units on the majestic Seekoeispruit River.

The distinguished Aloe Falls Country Estate has just been launched by Engel & Völkers Badplaas office. Nestled in the tranquil foothills of Mpumalanga's Ndlumudlumu Mountains, near the famous resort town of Badplaas, the estate features an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Cobie Legrange in association with Douw van der Merwe. A comfortable two and a half hour's drive from Gauteng, Aloe Falls is both an affordable golfing paradise and a convenient base from which to explore the richness of this popular holiday region.

The Seekoeispruit River winds its way through the 280 hectare eco-golf estate, creating the numerous waterfalls and rock pools that are its hallmark. The 18-hole, par 72 championship golf course traces the natural contours of the valley and crosses the river in two loops of nine holes. South African golfing legend Cobie Legrange teamed up with experienced course designer Douw van der Merwe to create a course that will delight golfers of all standards. "It's a wonderfully considerate course," enthuses Niël Cronje, CEO of Engel & Völkers SA. "There's an equal spread of up and downhill holes, the greens are generous and the movement of the sun has been factored in to try and keep it at the backs of the players as much as possible." The clubhouse is centrally located and includes a driving range with seven target greens and a large practice and chipping green.

The river is a fly-fisherman's paradise and home to trout, bass and the indigenous yellow fish. The rock pools make natural places to rest and swim while enjoying the many hiking and mountain biking trails around the estate. The hikes are spectacular when the indigenous Aloe plants are in full bloom

There is an on-site Health Hydro that offers a broad range of treatments including hot stone massages and facials. For the more energetic, the estate also offers the full range of sports facilities including squash, tennis and bowls. Other activities available in the vicinity include hang gliding, game viewing, 4 x 4 trails, scuba diving at Badgat as well as water-skiing and yachting on the nearby Vygeboom dam.

A popular holiday destination, the scenic Badplaas Valley enjoys a mild, malaria-free climate and is home to a hot sulphur spring, which the local Swazi tribesmen believe has restorative powers and call 'Emanzana' or 'healing waters'. The Badplaas Valley is also within easy reach of the Kruger National Park, Swaziland and the exceptional natural beauty of attractions like the Blyde River Canyon, God's Window, Sabie, Graskop, Nelspruit and Pilgrim's Rest.

Making the perfect holiday retreat, Aloe Falls Country Estate combines top class recreation and entertainment facilities with a tranquil, natural setting of unsurpassed beauty. The estate offers a unique lifestyle and an affordable investment opportunity with stands starting from R 350,000. "We have made sure Aloe Falls offers really excellent value for money," confirms Niël, "despite the premium on property in this popular area and stand sizes starting at 850 square metres." The resort's ideal location might also account for the interest generated prior to its official launch.