German snaps up castles for R28.5m
• Luxurious Noetzie property also offers panoramic views of the ocean
Three fairytale castles on the shoreline of the picturesque Noetzie Beach near Knysna on the Garden Route have been sold together for R28.5m by High Street Auctions.
The property includes Pezula Castle, which is set in its own manicured private garden with the sand of Noetzie beach just a few metres away. The magnificent residence provides ultimate luxury and comfort, and features a heated rim-flow pool, huge terraces with panoramic views of the ocean and a wellequipped gymnasium.
Beach Castle is arguably one of the most romantic hideaways in the world. Totally secluded and private, it is decorated in shades of cream and blue with quirky accessories that give it a distinctly nautical flavour.
The eagle’s nest of Cliff Castle completes the property. Set against the rock face above Pezula Castle and boasting panoramic views of the beach and ocean, this quaint castle offers spacious accommodation and privacy, with a luxury ensuite bedroom and an adjoining open-plan living area that comprises a kitchenette and comfortable seating space.
In total the three castles offer five luxurious suites, plus all the bells and whistles of an internationally acclaimed guest house. The R28.5m price tag included all furniture.
High Street lead auctioneer and director Joff van Reenen said final details of the sale were negotiated after the multiproperty auction in March.
“The necessary guarantees have now been met and the sale is through.”
Van Reenen said the new owner, a German national, wished to remain anonymous.
One of the castles hosted Nelson Mandela and Graça Machel for a 10-day retreat.
The combination of service and luxury earned the property one of the biggest global accolades — Best International Property — in the CNBC International Property Awards.
It was selected out of 4,000 entries from 56 countries in Africa, the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, Britain and the Americas. It was judged on location, architecture, design, appearance and finish. Safety, security, energy efficiency and innovation were also considered.
“Noetzie’s castles are just a few minutes’ drive from Knysna, one of the Garden Route’s most desirable travel destinations. A cosmopolitan town steeped in history, Knysna offers fabulous restaurants, charming coffee houses, craft breweries, artisanal bakeries, local crafts, art galleries, waterfront shopping and lagoon cruises,” said High Street director Rodney Beck. “Knysna is the heart of the Garden Route, which situates the castles perfectly for an array of day trips.”
High Street Auction sales are held at Summer Place in Hyde Park, Johannesburg.