R59.8 Million Sale of Stillness Manor Shatters Cape Town’s Exclusive Zwaanswyk Price Record

The exclusive, leafy enclave of Zwaanswyk has entered a new property stratosphere with the landmark sale of the historic Stillness Manor for a staggering R59.8 million (VAT inclusive), comprehensively shattering the suburb’s previous price record.

The sale of the substantial 14-bedroom estate, which sits on a four-acre plot with sweeping views, signals the intense demand for ultra-premium, secure properties in Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs. The transaction was concluded by Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty.

“This isn’t just a sale; it’s a seismic event for the Zwaanswyk market,” said Dawn Bloch, Zwaanswyk specialist for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty. “The price achieved for Stillness Manor resets the benchmark and underscores the unparalleled value placed on absolute privacy, immense scale, and irreplaceable heritage in this sought-after suburb.”

Bloch says properties in the suburb have always been in high demand “which is hardly surprising”.

“Combine the dearth of available overall stock with the fact that more than 40% of current owners have been resident for more than 11 years, according to Lightstone, and it makes for a highly competitive market.”

Bloch says intense buyer interest in Zwaanswyk is evidenced by the numerous queries flooding in with regards to another hero property on the market in the area, with an asking price of R25.95 million. Nestled at the end of a quiet country lane and surrounded by magnificent mountain views, this expansive family residence exudes warmth and character.

“The house features time-honoured finishes that include a terracotta tiled roof, well-maintained wooden sash windows and sliding doors, plus a combination of ceramic tiles and neutral carpeting throughout. The elegant wooden entrance door, with a sand-blasted glass rose tree design, signals the love of the landscaping creative, so evident in the garden layout.

An entertainer's delight flows through to a formal open plan dining room and sitting room with a wood-burning fireplace, which leads to a substantial conservatory featuring stackable glass doors. It is filled with natural light and showcases gorgeous garden views.

The conservatory also features a built-in gas braai with extractor fan, kitchenette, bar fridge, plus a jacuzzi hot tub. Electric blinds at the front of the conservatory control the light levels and climate control.

A modern farmhouse kitchen features soft cream and sage green cupboards, glass cupboard doors for glassware storage and presentation, appropriate lighting throughout, Caesarstone counter tops, Hans Grohe taps, a Smeg double oven and stove, water filtration system and a generous scullery and laundry.

Five luxurious bedrooms with built-in cupboards in the main house, three situated upstairs. The master bedroom is substantial with built-in cupboards, air-conditioner, a lounging area with picture windows providing exquisite views of the koi ponds, stream and garden below. The en-suite bathroom features a spacious corner Spa bath, vanity cupboard with two hand basins, separate shower and toilet.

North-facing sliding doors open to a large tiled balcony, with the magnificent Constantiaberg Mountain Range providing a spectacular backdrop.

Four further well-appointed bathrooms, Guest cloakroom, TV lounge with gas fireplace and access to the garden deck. Two large studies, with additional shelving units, are located in the North and South wings of the residence, both with guest bedrooms, en-suite.

The record-breaking price places Stillness Manor’s sale in a league of its own. According to Lightstone property data, the 15 sales recorded in Zwaanswyk over the past 12 months had a total value of R259 million, yielding an average price of R17.27 million per property.

The sale of Stillness Manor alone is worth nearly three-and-a-half times that annual average.

“The figures from Lightstone confirm what we experience on the ground: Zwaanswyk is a rarified market where the average household income exceeds R200 000 per month,” Bloch added. “Buyers at this level are not just purchasing a house; they are acquiring a legacy estate with a profound sense of place and history.”

Stillness Manor, originally part of one of the first farms in the Western Cape dating back to 1688, is a property of extraordinary proportions.

Bloch says that the Stillness Manor estate boasts 10 North-East facing dwellings with a floor size totaling approximately 1 650m².

“Amenities rival those of a luxury boutique hotel, which was in fact the property’s previous incarnation. The estate boasts an indoor pool, two outdoor pools, a tennis court, a formal dining room seating 20, a wine cellar, and parking for 22 vehicles.

“The jewel in the crown is the original manor house, featuring a classic Cape Dutch gable and offering breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the False Bay coastline and the Steenberg Golf Estate below.

“From its elevated position, Stillness Manor is truly one of a kind,” Bloch concluded. “It offers a rare combination of grand, historic architecture set on 4 acres of prime land with close access to the Tokai forest trails . This sale proves that there is no ceiling for trophy assets that tick every box.”