Local stakeholders, government officials, and media representatives attended the launch of the sustainability-driven eco-estate, Serenity Hills, at its Margate site on Thursday, 2 February. Since the announcement of the innovative estate in May 2022, there has been massive interest from homeowners searching for nature-based living, with community and environment at its heart.

“We have been overwhelmed by the positive reception following the launch of Serenity Hills, with sales numbers on target including a number of international buyers,” commented Reece Daniel, Developer of Serenity Hills in Margate. “The official groundbreaking is a momentous occasion for us. We are all very excited to finally see our vision become a reality and to share in this with the KZN South Coast.”

The location of the beautiful coastal town of Margate means that residents of Serenity Hills will enjoy a year-round subtropical climate, incredible swimming beaches, indigenous forests, and the laidback lifestyle synonymous with the region.

This 120-hectare eco-estate offers residents secure living with generous natural buffers between homes. To retain this as a low-density estate, 70 hectares will remain private conservation providing some 250 bird species, 49 butterfly species, and game with natural habitats.

A dedicated community ethos

Development Director, Sam Wenger, explained that his Swiss-born family had a deep connection with this piece of paradise, integrating their European heritage with the design and high-level security of this pet-friendly estate: “We wanted to create a space for families to enjoy, that connected residents with the incredible natural world while incorporating sustainable practices throughout. This extends further than the environment as we truly believe in creating a sustainable local economy that empowers local communities through Serenity Hills.”

The Wenger family has already proven its commitment to this ethos, establishing the world-class Packshed Restaurant – now forming part of the estate – which upskills and employs locals. This award-winning fusion food restaurant has already become a major drawcard for visitors to the area.

The family has also set up Sweetdale Skills Center which develops and coaches emerging entrepreneurs in communities to promote self-sustainability and sustainable job creation. The formation of the Sweetdale Trails some years back – also incorporated into Serenity Hills – provides the local community with a way to connect with the natural world through hiking and biking.

Speaking at the soil-turning ceremony, CEO for South Coast Tourism and Investment (SCTIE), Phelisa Mangcu, described Serenity Hills as a ‘game changer for the area’: “The KZN South Coast boasts immense potential for real estate investment and Serenity Hills is a prime example of what can be achieved by those with the right vision. SCTIE welcomes this development which is not only the area’s first eco-estate, it also brings much-needed employment and a boost to the local economy.”

Quality and sustainability

This impetus on sustainability, as well as an uncompromised focus on modern amenities, will be evident in the 600 units dotted throughout three neighbourhoods. These open onto the sunny, north side of the estate with expansive views. All units, ranging from 2-bedroom to 4-bedroom freestanding homes, offer superb value for money, with modern finishes and quality brands. Serenity Hills’ partnership with @home and Weber underscores the developers’ commitment to excellence in design. 

The eco-conscious designs will include solar-ready homes as well as gas geysers and hobs, LED lighting, and water collection with reservoirs guaranteeing three months of water supply for residents. The establishment of a Schrebergärten will encourage the consumption of locally-grown produce, with fresh bread delivered to homes via Tuk Tuks daily.

Serenity Hills also boasts top-class facilities such as The Clubhouse with swimming pools, the Infinity Bar, and The Bistro. In addition to the nature trails, there will be yoga and Pilates spots, bowling greens, a volleyball field and a tennis court for active residents, with on-site medical care.

There are no transfer duties on any of the free-standing units, all of which have private gardens and a single or double carport. These include:

2-bedroom units starting from R1,395,000 (incl VAT)3-bedroom units starting from R1,799,000 (incl VAT)4-bedroom units starting from R2,345,000 (incl VAT)

To find out more about Phase 1 of Serenity Hills, visit www.serenityhills.co.za or follow @serenityhillsecoestate on Facebook and Instagram.