Uncovering the natural splendour of Belvidere (GR) Ft. Yvette Botha

Seeking the pinnacle of success within the coveted suburb of Belvidere - Ft. Yvette Botha

Nestled within the well-established area of Knysna, Belvidere is an upmarket suburb which rests along the titular lagoon's edge. Described as a quiet neighbourhood with a fair amount of holiday homes, Belvidere boasts the best sort of country living aesthetic - That being the convenience of modern amenities without the hustle and bustle of city stresses.

The neighbourhood is steeped in local history with its Little Belvidere Church being the centre of its storied attraction. Belvidere is only 9.5 km from the centre of town and sets the scene for an abundance of contemporary styled and upmarket homes with many of the beachside properties providing access to private jetties for water and boating enthusiasts.

Belvidere at glance

Belvidere estate is considered a suburb of Knysna and consists of over 220 opulent homes bearing unique and contemporary Georgian and Late Victorian style designs. These immaculate homes offer both peace of mind and exceptional security features.

Described as the quintessential English village, Belvidere centres around a quiet Holy Trinity Church which was built by Thomas Duthie in the late 1800s. The church itself is modelled after 11th to 12th century Norman churches and is built from sandstone and timber and holds weekly services to this day.

Belvidere's strong sense of community and heritage can be attributed to various names within the neighbourhood that have worked to maintain its unique identity. Although there aren't any strict architectural guidelines, careful planning throughout the years has worked to maintain its historical aesthetic.

Agent Q&A - Yvette Botha

In order to achieve a true understanding of the lifestyle which details the luxury that Belvidere has to offer, one needs to speak to an expert. Luckily, Hamilton's very own Yvette Botha is here to provide first-hand knowledge of the area's most attractive and well-kept secrets.

Q: When touring the exclusive suburb of Belvidere, what are the sort of homes and property one would expect to encounter?

A: Belvidere is essentially divided into three distinctive areas. Old Belvidere, Belvidere Estate and Belvidere Heights. In this area, one will find the Holy Trinity church which was built in the late 1800s.

There are different building styles in the area from the Field House built in the mid-1800s to more modern styled Colonial homes to ultra-modern and contemporary homes which are built on spacious properties.

Parts of Old Belvidere have gravel roads and this adds to the charm of the area. Belvidere Estate is a newer development that started in 1983 and nestled within lies "Belvidere Manor" erected by George Rex in 1830. Today, the hunting lodge is known as 'The Bell', the area's charming local pub.

Q: Let's explore prices, what are the trends?

A: Price trends across the Belvidere area are slightly higher than in other outlying areas, and with good reason. The historic Belvidere offers an exclusive and secure nature-filled area best known as "A quaint English Village on the Knysna Lagoon."

Parks, peace, tranquillity and space with large plot sizes offer plenty of privacy. The home value in the Belvidere area has remained untouched by the downward trends in the greater housing market across S.A.

• On average homes in the Belvidere Park range from R3million and upwards.

• Belvidere Estate a three-bedroom home starts from R4,8million and upwards.

• Mergers homes R8,5million and up.

• In Old Belvidere, an average 3 bedroom home is around the R5million mark and up and large homes are up to R21million currently.

Q: What features set Belvidere apart from similar areas within Cape Town?

A: Belvidere is set apart in its charm as an English country village. This unique feeling is created by the history of the area. The surrounding trees and green spaces throughout Belvidere enhance the countryside feel.

Beautiful gardens surround the homes with abundant bird life and the constant chirping of birds in the trees is clearly food for the soul. Walking through the area surrounded by nature is simply a pleasure.

Q: What makes this suburb great for young families? What sort of schools can you find in the nearby vicinity?

A: Belvidere is a mere 7min drive around the scenic lagoon to a selection of schools. Knysna has a government school to matric and private schools offering the IEB curriculum with a selection of other schooling options.

Q: In terms of lifestyle, what do Belvidere and its surroundings offer residents?

A: Within Belvidere, the expansive parks and the roads with speed bumps offer a glorious environment for children to play and ride their bicycles.

There is also a great sense of community and a yearly ' Boxing day cricket game is organized on the Village green. Other events are run at the Belvidere Manor such as Christmas carols and other holiday celebrations.

Q: What are the nearby healthcare facilities like?

A: Knysna has a Government Hospital that offers exceptional service to the community and is situated just outside the centre of town. From Belvidere, this hospital can be reached in just under 10 minutes.

A Netcare Private Hospital is situated in Hunters and is a 15-minute drive from Belvidere. Clinics, hospitals, and Doctors are professional and offer excellent service.

Q: What are some of the highlights of living here?

A: Meeting for coffee or a meal at Oak leaf or the Bell, or enjoying sundowners and supper is a treat as most homes in the area are within walking distance from both these restaurants.

Jerry's and slipways in Old Belvidere as well as Belvidere Estate give residents direct access to the Lagoon where a variety of water sports can be enjoyed.

Q: What advice would you give to people looking to purchase property in Belvidere and its surroundings?

A: Living in Belvidere one is always met by a smile and a friendly wave in passing. The climate is very tempered and this makes it possible to live outdoors for a great part of the year.

Having meals outside while enjoying nature and the views around you is a favourite pastime and no baboons in the area mean that during the day windows and doors can be left open.

Q: What are your favourite aspects of Belvidere, personally?

A: The historic Oak and Gum tree avenues and indigenous forest have been protected in Belvidere and remain a hallmark of the overall look and feel of the area. In Belvidere Estate all buildings must adhere to strict aesthetic design guidelines in order to retain their distinctive aesthetic.

Beyond that, the spectacular views of the Knysna Lagoon have to be seen to be believed.

Read our previous article here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SqHD5AHZmGDropKFXtKMiXZ15-iIek5gy9PU4HSo0Nk/edit

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