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When Simbithi Eco-Estate was being conceptualised and developed more than 10 years ago, ‘home’ was at the heart. The moment you drive through each of the estate’s access gates, the sense of coming home – to the unspoilt environment in which Simbithi finds itself – is overwhelmingly comforting.
Situated along the pristine magnificence of the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, just 20 minutes from King Shaka International Airport and a stone’s throw away from rapidly developing Ballito, is Simbithi, a unique eco-friendly residential estate that succinctly embodies the pleasures of South African outdoor living without forsaking shopping convenience and choice. This, together with a mild and comfortable climate throughout the year, makes Simbithi an attractive prospect for local and international investors.
Simbithi’s eco status is particularly important to the Simbithi Eco-Estate Homeowners’ Association, its management team and resident community. It is this ecological ethos that underpins many of the strategic and operational decisions that are taken on the estate. The latest initiative – the ‘War on Plastic’ campaign to pull out the #LastStrawinSimbithi – is an example, whereby residents and guests are called upon to participate in preserving and protecting our natural environment.
One of the hallmarks of Simbithi is its state-of-the-art security infrastructure. At the centre of the security system is the control room – the communication hub for all security-related matters on Simbithi Eco-Estate. It is manned and operated 24/7, and security aspects under management include automated access through biometrics, CCTV, security patrols and emergency responses. Residents and guests rest in the knowledge that they are secure. While security is serious business, the Simbithi security ethos is welcoming and alert. Friendly guards greet you with warmth and genuineness: whether you are a permanent resident, a guest, or a short-term tenant, the same courtesy is extended to all. Once you are within Simbithi’s boundaries, you become part of the Simbithi family.
The estate encompasses 430 hectares of reclaimed farmland and natural forest, comprising two distinct sectors, namely the ‘Eco’ side and the ‘Golf Course’ side.
Harmonious cohabitation with nature is encouraged on the entire estate, but it is on the ‘Eco’ side that Simbithi strives to balance natural and developed areas beyond coexistence into rejuvenation. This is pivotal to the estate’s uniqueness, with many ‘previously lost’ endemic fauna and flora being reintroduced into the ‘Eco’ side in an ordered and managed manner. As a result, one will find bushbuck, duiker, genets, primates and myriad birdlife enjoying the natural profusion of Simbithi. The estate’s ecological surroundings include indigenous riverine vegetation, dams, grasslands, lush valley wetlands and green rolling hills, each of which lends itself to the wildlife’s comfort; this despite the ‘Eco’ side also being home to thousands of residents, housing the Homeowners’ Association offices, the Welcome Centre and four community centres, each with their unique and distinctive attributes.
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Community is central to harmonious living on Simbithi. Each of the four community centres caters for something different. The largest community centre, the Heron, boasts a pool, braai areas and a comfortable seating area. The centre also houses the popular Heron Pizzeria, with a selection of mouthwatering wood fired pizzas, lasagnes, desserts and – a favourite with children – slushies! It is the centre that families are most fond of, where parents can relax at the poolside while their children enjoy a swim, adventure golf, a pizza, an ice cream or a cool drink. The Fish Eagle Community Centre’s secluded location makes it a favourite for the estate’s Art Group to congregate, while the Kingfisher’s play facilities endears it to younger families. The Guinea Fowl overlooks a sports oval, where fitness classes are held. Intertwining through the community centres are Simbithi’s five nature trails – Mannies, Mfuleni, Mngeni, Msimbi and Tamboti; each with its own level of difficulty, the trails serve either as part of a rigorous training schedule for some, or a leisurely afternoon walk or bike ride for others.
The ‘Golf Course’ side of Simbithi is not only home to thousands of residents, it also houses Simbithi’s excellent leisure facilities. The Matkovich-designed executive golf course, the first of its kind in South Africa, has cemented itself as a popular golfing destination on the KZN North Coast. The course continues the theme of natural abundance throughout Simbithi: not only is the course expertly designed for the love of the game, but one gets to appreciate nature within a residential golf setting. A dedicated maintenance team strives to keep the course in pristine condition, tending to well-paced greens that hold a well-struck approach shot, immaculate fairways and a layout that will test your course management at every hole. With a par of 60 comprising thirteen par 3s, four par 4s and one par 5, the course has been described as an enthralling golfing journey. Golf Manager and resident Pro Elbert du Plessis maintains a warm, friendly environment on the course, as does his excellent team.
Overlooking the magnificent course is the Simbithi Country Club, a family-orientated establishment with varied facilities, making it an attractive destination for golfers, foodies and residents of the estate. Informal business, entertainment and leisure are central themes at the Country Club, and its amenities include meeting rooms, wedding venues, a swimming pool, tennis courts, a residents’ gym, a restaurant and a pro shop. Residents and visitors can enjoy tapas, cocktails, gourmet milkshakes, drinks and sporting events at the more informal Drop Zone Bar, or an expertly crafted meal overlooking the outstanding 18th hole at the renowned Fig Tree Restaurant. Executive Chef Daryn Bowers, recently inducted into the elite Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and received into the prestigious Ordre Mondial des Gourmets Dégustateurs, heads up the Simbithi culinary experience. The Club is a significant piece of the Simbithi culture, where residents and guests relax, unwind and soak up the picturesque surroundings.
As one would imagine, the stunning surroundings of the Simbithi Eco-Estate make for an aesthetically alluring backdrop. The sustainability of the estate is highlighted in the style and architecture of the homes, which are designed and built to work with nature. Homes are painted using colours from a neutral colour palette so that they can blend into the natural surrounds. Natural materials like stone and wood are blended with engineered surfaces like glass, steel and aluminium within an architectural guideline inspired by ‘Natal farmhouses’ from yesteryear. The emphasis of large windows and patios is not lost in the contemporary interpretation of the past, thereby ensuring individuality yet conformity.
Simbithi Eco-Estate’s close proximity to the neighbouring communities of Shakashead, Shakaskraal and Foxhill – the majority of the estate’s staff are from these areas – allows the estate to participate keenly in several Community Social Investment opportunities, the most successful of which is the Partners for Possibility initiative. Simbithi is a part of the PFP North Coast Circle, which has seen senior management and members of the board of directors partnering with local schools to provide business counselling and operational assistance. Residents of Simbithi Eco-Estate understand that when they invest in the estate they invest in a lifestyle. They become part of a close-knit community where families – dogs included – thrive and everyone is welcome. Warmth and friendliness characterise the families of Simbithi, who welcome new residents and guests readily, enfolding them in the community spirit of the estate.
Whether you plan to purchase a home within Simbithi or simply enjoy a short time on the estate – to play a round of golf or enjoy a meal at the Country Club – you are welcome.
Welcome to the natural, well-preserved environment so many are proud to call home.
