There are still a few properties up for grabs at the exclusive Belle Rio Lifestyle Estate, located just outside Upington on the banks of the Orange River.
André Mostert, Seeff’s MD for the Green Kalahari and Namaqualand region, says the estate is a unique addition to the local property market and includes a mix of residential and retirement homes with a 24/7 care facility with Midcare, as well as frail and Alzheimer’s care.
The development is low density with plenty of green areas and a mix of freehold homes and townhouses selling off plan. Mostert says it includes two kilometres of river frontage, and properties enjoy stunning views of the river, surrounding farms, green Kalahari landscape and the unique smells, sights and sounds of the rare fauna and flora in the area. The development includes camel thorn trees that have been preserved on the estate.
It is located opposite the historic Kanoneiland, the largest inland island residential area that dates back to around 1928. Bell Rio is inspired by the rural vernacular style of the island, with architecturally designed contemporary South African farmhouse-styled homes featuring large verandas, high ceilings, natural stone and modern interiors.
There are 61 large freehold stands in total, ranging in size from 790 square metres to 1 440 square metres. About 50 stands are still on offer, priced upwards of R400 000. Buyers can choose from four architectural house plans with the flexibility to change the interior layout and a choice of finishes. Floor sizes range from 200 square metres to 280 square metres and all offer three bedrooms.
The remainder of the townhouse stands comprise of 20 units ranging in size from 404 square metres to 663 square metres in a choice of five layout plans. Units are still up for grabs, priced upwards of R400 000.
The development is secured with an electrified perimeter fence and a single point of entry. The interior roads are tarred and equipped with street lamps. There is a back-up generator for electricity emergencies for water and sanitation. It is also environmentally friendly with recycled water used for garden irrigation. The homeowners manage the estate.
Mostert says residents enjoy a community lifestyle surrounded by like-minded residents. Aside from the area still being regarded as one of the safest in the country, the climate is excellent, with plenty of sunshine and low humidity. The air is fresh and pollution-free, which is ideal for older buyers.
Part of the development also houses an agri component that produces lemons, and there are a few wine producers in the area; an added attraction to the rural lifestyle. Belle Rio is en-route to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and Namibia while the Augrabies Falls National Park is about half an hour’s drive away. Other points of interest include Namaqualand with its beautiful flowers and the Kalahari.
Close by are leisure facilities such as 4X4, hiking and mountain bike trails, the river for fishing and water sports, and a hunting farm. Oranjerus, a resort with chalets, a restaurant, catering venue and swimming pool is located next to the estate.
The excellent infrastructure of Upington includes the new Kalahari Mall, top schools, health care, and places of worship are practically on the doorstep. The town also offers an airport for national and regional flights.
Mostert says there is growing demand for estate living, and what better way to live than in a lovely, modern farmhouse where you can sit on your veranda and marvel in the natural beauty around you.
Upington is a hub of growth, and aside from residential and retirement buyers, Mostert believes that it is ideal for country home buyers looking for a weekend or holiday escape. It is also centrally located in the country and can be reached within a few hours’ drive from most of the inland provinces.
For more information, call André Mostert on 083 703 7809 or 054 331 2166.