Property Details
An Extraordinary Hospitality & Tourism Estate Awaiting Your Vision in the Upper Highway
Unlock a World of Opportunity on this Exquisite 3.43 Hectare Sanctuary near Hillcrest
Imagine a prestigious retreat, meticulously crafted and ideally positioned west of Durban, offering an unparalleled foundation for a thriving hotel, boutique accommodation, or exclusive tourism venture. This spectacular 3.43-hectare estate, reminiscent of a private botanical garden with its perfectly manicured lawns, fragrant lavender, impressive water features, and the soothing sounds of a cascading river, presents a rare chance to establish an extraordinary destination.
Embrace Luxury and Tranquility: A Foundation for Exceptional Hospitality
This property embodies a commitment to sophisticated design and guest comfort. The existing infrastructure, boasting nearly 2000sqm under roof with upmarket finishes throughout, offers versatile options perfectly suited for:
A Boutique Hotel or Luxury Guesthouse: The existing layout with a grand owner's residence and 10 individually adorned, luxurious ensuite guest rooms provides an immediate high-end accommodation offering.
A Premier Conference & Training Centre: The impressive 300-seater conference facility, complete with its own kitchen, bar, and ablutions, is ready to host large-scale events, workshops, and corporate gatherings.
A Wellness or Rehabilitation Centre: The tranquil environment, coupled with spacious buildings and the potential for further development, creates an ideal setting for a healing and restorative retreat.
An Exclusive Retirement or Care Centre: The secure and serene estate offers a perfect environment for upmarket assisted living or retirement residences.
Existing Infrastructure: A Foundation for Success
The property features meticulously designed buildings, each offering unique advantages:
The Grand Smart House: This elegant four-bedroom residence (all with luxurious ensuites and FF Home automation) offers a sophisticated owner's accommodation or VIP guest suites. Its lower level features a stylish bar, a vast multi-purpose training facility, and a private boardroom, all opening onto a covered patio overlooking the sparkling pool. The second level boasts a beautiful kitchen, formal and family lounges, a guest suite, and an entertainment patio with braai facilities. The top level comprises four expansive ensuite bedrooms, an office/study, a TV lounge, and a master suite of dreams with opulent furnishings, a walk-in wardrobe, a lavish bathroom with a fireplace, and a private balcony offering breathtaking views.
Ten Luxurious Guest Rooms: Each individually decorated ensuite room exudes comfort with rich wood furniture, modern amenities (satellite TV, air-conditioning/heating, electronic safes, tea/coffee stations), and a decadent blend of soft furnishings and ambient lighting. Guests also enjoy a beautifully appointed dining room, a common lounge, and inviting patios.
Impressive Conference Centre: This grand 300-seater facility is equipped with separate male and female ablutions, a well-equipped kitchen and bar, and opens onto a fantastic covered deck with estate views, perfect for breaks and networking.
Separate Office Suite: Offering a reception area, lounge, bathroom, and bedroom, ideal for on-site management or administration.
Romantic Private Suite: A secluded king-sized bedroom with a lounge and bathroom provides an exclusive and unique accommodation option.
Unlock Untapped Potential: Expansion and Further Development Ideas
This estate offers significant scope for expansion and the creation of additional income streams:
Expand Accommodation: With ample open space, consider developing additional freestanding villas, garden suites, or eco-friendly cabins to cater to a wider range of guests and longer stays.
Wellness Centre Expansion: Build dedicated spa facilities, treatment rooms, yoga studios, and relaxation areas to enhance a wellness-focused offering.
Outdoor Activities & Experiences: Leverage the tranquil gardens and river frontage to create nature trails, meditation gardens, outdoor event spaces, or even a small amphitheater.
Catering & Events Focus: Further develop the existing kitchens and conference facilities to become a sought-after venue for weddings, corporate events, and special occasions.
Team-Building & Adventure Activities: Utilize the spacious grounds to create team-building facilities or partner with local adventure tourism operators, tapping into the Valley's adventure appeal.
Long-Stay Accommodation: Explore the development of self-catering units or apartments for extended stays, catering to business travelers or those seeking a longer retreat.
Specialized Retreats: Host themed retreats focusing on specific interests like yoga, art, culinary experiences, or corporate wellness.
Boutique Retail or Curio Shop: Create a small retail space showcasing local crafts or estate-branded products.
Strategic Location: Gateway to the Upper Highway's Affluence and Tourism
Situated west of Durban, this estate is perfectly positioned to capitalize on the thriving Hillcrest community and the broader tourism appeal of the region:
Thriving Hillcrest: An Affluent Economic Hub: Hillcrest has evolved into a significant commercial hub, attracting a high-income demographic. This affluent community provides a consistent demand for high-end accommodation, dining, conference facilities, and wellness services. Your hotel will directly benefit from corporate bookings, local residents seeking weekend escapes or special occasion venues, and the spending power of this discerning market. The growth in retail and professional services in Hillcrest ensures a steady influx of visitors and potential clientele.
Easy Access to Durban & Pietermaritzburg: Located strategically between these two major cities, your hotel can attract business travelers and tourists moving between the hubs. Durban offers coastal attractions and a major port, while Pietermaritzburg serves as the provincial capital with its own economic drivers and historical significance.
Proximity to the N3 Corridor: Excellent connectivity via the N3 ensures easy access for guests traveling from further afield, including Gauteng. The N3 is a vital economic artery, facilitating trade and travel.
Westown Development: The ongoing development of Westown, a modern mixed-use precinct, will further enhance the area's appeal, attracting more businesses, residents, and visitors, creating additional opportunities for your hotel.
The Alluring Valley of 1000 Hills: As a gateway to this renowned tourism region, your hotel can serve as a base for visitors exploring Zulu cultural villages, scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, and the unique charm of the area. The Valley attracts both domestic and international tourists seeking authentic experiences and natural beauty. The Comrades Marathon route passing through the region provides a significant annual influx of visitors. The Umgeni Steam Railway and attractions like Phezulu Safari Park further enhance the tourism draw.
This is a rare opportunity to acquire a truly exceptional property with a solid foundation and limitless potential in a prime Upper Highway location. Don't miss the chance to create a landmark hotel, hospitality, or tourism destination, capitalizing on the affluent Hillcrest community and the region's growing tourism sector.
Please note: Viewing is strictly by appointment only for financially pre-qualified buyers. Contact us today to arrange your private viewing of this magnificent estate and explore the extraordinary possibilities that await.