Breedezicht Estate - developing in unspoiled Witsand

Hugo La Grange

Tell us about Breedezicht Estate

Hugo La Grange: In the heart of the Overberg in the Western Cape, with white sand dunes and unspoiled beaches, is the small coastal town of Witsand. Situated at the mouth of the Breede River, Witsand is known as one of the last unexploited places on the South African coastline. Nestled in this hidden gem is Breedezicht Estate, offering a quality development to weekend guests or even homeowners, looking for a lifestyle investment.

300 kilometers from Cape Town CBD, Witsand was once a bustling little town with a port where steamboats loaded goods destined for the Cape Town market. Today, Witsand boasts a variety of offerings, from its famous landmark of the Barry Memorial Church, built in 1849, to ruptured remains of steamships and the well-preserved little harbour.

Home to the endangered Cape Mountain Zebra and Cape Vulture, Witsand presents a rich diversity of fauna and flora. With over 260 bird species, the largest concentration of the endangered southern right whale and 3,000 hectares of undisturbed fynbos right on its doorstep, this old fishing village is an investor’s aspiration.

The Breede River is widely known as a fisherman’s retreat, supporting an abundance of fish from spotted grunter, steenbras, white and red stumpnose, "leervis", and red roman to cob that weighs up to an impressive 50kg. Looking for something with a bit more adrenalin? Kitesurfing in Witsand is rated as one of the top kitesurfing destinations in South Africa due to the perfectly flat lagoon, spaciousness and, of course, the onshore South Easter in the summer and the Westerly wind in the winter months.

Established in 2008, Breedezicht Estate offers fully serviced prime stands. 60% of phase one has sold out with 13 houses having been successfully completed. Once a stand has been selected, a choice of five architectural styles – unique to the town’s character – is available to choose from. Cape Heritage boasts architectural features dated back to the old Cape Dutch farmsteads, Modern Beach is best suited for those looking for beach chic architecture, Vermont offers classic beach house features, New England architecture is ideal for nostalgic historians and Fisherman’s Cottage possesses charming features associated with simplicity and warmth.

Limited infrastructure restricts further development in the beautiful haven of Witsand, adding to the exclusivity and investment value that this little piece of heaven has to offer.

What was the vision for Breedezicht Estate and has this vision been achieved?

La Grange: Breedezicht’s vision is a development that will complement the very unique town of Witsand and to serve as the ultimate holiday destination along the coast in the Overberg district. Witsand has got a rich history and lends itself to being the perfect early retirement option for permanent residents that prefer safety and natural surroundings over the busy city life. The goal has been achieved and we still make an afford to include the entire Witsand and all its business as part of our vision.

What were the biggest challenges faced in building and developing the estate?

La Grange: The local infrastructure and especially the available labour force is an ongoing challenge for the construction. The availability of machinery, tool hire and building materials is also an issue that needs to be managed very carefully in order to prevent costly and unnecessary delays. Thanks to our local contractor Roos from Klopper construction, we have managed to minimise costly mistakes and learning curves.

What are the benefits of developing an estate like this in such a small town with limited infrastructure?

La Grange: Each one of the 5 building styles include unique features and finishes with a variety of different floorplans and sizes. The benefit and advantage of our approach is clearly visible in the estate - we don’t mass deliver and every house has its own character.

How does the estate complement and support its surroundings and surrounding community?

La Grange: Breedezicht is situated at the entrance of the town and on the river front. The estate is surrounded by the local businesses like Kersmark, Sand shopping centre, Breederiver lodge, Breederiver boat charters, etc. We try and support the local businesses as much as we can and we maintain good relationships with business owners to ensure that our successes also benefit them. In such a small town it’s important to work together as a community.

What makes Breedezicht Estate a success in your opinion? What does it offer guests that make it unique?

La Grange: To a big extent, the estate’s success is owed to the local involvement and the fact that this estate is not a mass production of housing - it’s more of a boutique estate with attention to detail and sensitivity to the community and the environment. The estate and its surroundings are unique, the town and its setting is unmatched in terms of safety, character and especially its people. The location is perfect for fishermen that want to be close to the jetty and river and the holiday visitors that wants to walk to local shops, markets and restaurants.

Breedezicht

What are some of the top things guests can look forward to in a visit to Breedezicht Estate?

La Grange: The estate offers parks and open spaces with jungle gyms and volleyball nets for the kids, it is access controlled and off the main road which makes it extremely quiet and peaceful. The estate offers endless activities, businesses, attractions and scenic routes within a comfortable walking or driving distance. Breedezicht is a place where you can entertain yourself but ultimately it’s a place where you can relax with family and friends.