A growing demand for nature-connected living has positioned eco-estates as the new benchmark in sustainable real estate. These developments not only offer residents a higher quality of life but also actively support local biodiversity, making them increasingly attractive as natural habitats shrink across South Africa.
“We’ve seen the challenges our natural wildlife face countrywide as developments encroach on natural spaces and we need to ensure our animals need space to thrive,” explained Ayanda Masengemi, Associate Director of eco-focused estate Serenity Hills. “This is driving the ‘green spaces trend’ whereby homeowners, more than ever, are seeking sanctuaries that provide a deep alignment with nature, creating an inviting space for humans and wildlife.”
Eco-estates in South Africa are gaining momentum, driven by a rising demand for green spaces and environmentally conscious living. These sustainable property developments offer well-designed homes set within indigenous landscapes, creating a balance between modern living and ecological preservation.
Key benefits of conservation-focused estates
“Eco-estates are becoming modern conservation corridors,” Masengemi explains. “The goal with these developments is to preserve or rehabilitate the natural environment, while creating a sustainable community that coexists with nature.”
He says some of the other key benefits of investing in conservation-focused estates include:
- Energy-efficient homes: By incorporating water preservation tanks and solar-ready home designs, investors enjoy homes that reduce their carbon footprint while lowering utility bills. The shift from reliance on the national grid also reduces power supply interruption, which is beneficial for those who work from home.
- Supports biodiversity: These eco-focused estates, which provide habitat for the natural flora and fauna, further support biodiversity, which leads to a healthy and thriving natural environment. This leads to enhanced pest control and other benefits supported by nature.
- Nature trails: Residents get to enjoy recreational amenities such as hiking and cycling trails, dams for fishing and exploring, as well as safe green play areas for families. This nature-based experience is known to improve physical health as well as mental health by reducing anxiety.
- Low-density housing: Unlike traditional suburbs or estates that can have up to 20 homes per hectare, eco-estates have a much lower density, averaging around one to five homes per hectare. This means more sense of space and privacy for investors.
- Return on investment: Eco-estates offer strong investment returns, driven by a combination of lifestyle appeal, growing demand, and environmental credibility. This makes them an attractive investment for homeowners, and those in the buy-to-rent sector.
Eco-focused Serenity Hills
The 120-hectare Serenity Hills eco-focused estate on the KZN South Coast was developed around a strong conservation ethos, incorporating modern amenities for all residents of the 600 beautifully appointed units across three neighbourhoods. The estate offers residents secure living within a coastal forest setting with many afforded ocean views.
Serenity Hill joined the Green Custodianship through FreeMe Wildlife, aligning the estate with the ‘Islands of Hope’ Green Custodian programme. It’s through this affiliation that rehabilitated wildlife are being released onto the estate, contributing to the estate’s overall conservation efforts.
Investing in Serenity Hills
With 53 households already established, remaining plots are selling quickly at Serenity Hills, which also offers:
- Green living: Solar-ready homes, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient designs.
- Award-winning amenities: The Packshed Restaurant, Night Market, Sweet Gang & Friends Farm Stall.
- Top-class facilities: Clubhouse, new Peaceful Escapes Spa, and private hiking and biking trails.
- Wildlife restoration: Grey Duiker, Bush Buck, and porcupines reintroduced to revive the ecosystem.
- Community impact: Skills Upliftment Center and Sweetbike Project supporting locals.
- Ideally positioned: Margate/Uvongo/Shelly Beach-adjacent location with access to quality facilities.
Homeowners enjoy access to an active, holistic, and healthy lifestyle for the whole family – pets included! Buyers keen to get significant value for their investment are encouraged to visit Serenity Hills to view the last remaining premium stands for Phase 1.
To find out more or to book a viewing at Serenity Hills, visit www.serenityhills.co.za.
