Nestled in the foothills of the Southern Drakensberg, the picturesque Underberg region is drawing growing interest from home buyers seeking space, tranquillity, and excellent value compared to city house prices.
Angela Walker, Pam Golding Properties area principal in Underberg, elaborates: “Freestanding homes on large 2 000sqm to 4 000sqm stands in Underberg and nearby Himeville – just 5km away – are in high demand. These properties offer exceptional value, typically selling between R1.5 million and R4 million.”
A renowned trout-fishing haven with over 160km of rivers and 60 dams, Underberg also offers canoeing, rafting, tubing, hiking, cycling, horse trails, and easy access to the famous Sani Pass into Lesotho. Just two hours from Pietermaritzburg and about three from Durban, it’s a peaceful escape within easy reach of the city.
Currently underway, the resurfacing of the R617 between Underberg and the N3 will further enhance accessibility and boost the region’s appeal in the future.
Walker says positively, younger buyers are moving into the area, relocating their families from cities such as Johannesburg and Durban, and some from the Western Cape, acquiring homes in the R1.5 million to R2 million mark, while retirees tend to purchase up to around R3 million.
“Consider the fact that one can acquire a four-bedroom, 246sqm sectional title unit with spectacular ‘Berg views for just R1.495 million, and it’s no surprise that young families are increasingly choosing to settle in Underberg, drawn by accessibly priced homes, coupled with excellent primary and pre-school options and a strong sense of community. Many are relocating for new job opportunities, which is positive news for the local economy, while others benefit from the flexibility of working from home,” says Walker.
“With farming forming the backbone of the region, Underberg continues to attract employees across key industries, including dairy farming, the large-scale Underberg Dairies plant which buys and processes locally produced milk, agricultural co-ops and support services, and local supermarkets.
“Often, newcomers rent before buying, creating healthy demand in the rental market. Adding to this sense of growth and confidence is the opening of a new shopping centre, anchored by national retailers such as Clicks, Boxer Supermarket, and Debonairs.”
Walker notes that smallholdings remain highly sought-after in the Underberg region, with properties selling across a broad price spectrum, from around R3.2 million to R12 million, depending on size, position and features.
In Himeville, a three-bedroom home plus rentable cottage and staff cottage, and set on 4 047sqm bordering the nature reserve is currently on the market priced at R1.25 million, while a three-bedroom, facebrick home with two separate cottages ideal for rental income and with a garden entertainment lapa is for sale at R2.075 million.
Award-winning stone homestead for sale
Currently on the market is an exceptional 64-hectare smallholding, featuring a striking architect-designed five-bedroom homestead alongside a range of additional buildings, including a guest cottage, garages, laundry, workshops, two staff cottages, and converted stables. Originally built by a visionary Johannesburg engineer, the home is constructed from massive stone blocks and finished throughout with beautiful solid Malaysian teak. In 1993, the property was honoured with the prestigious South African Institute of Architects’ Award of Merit.
Says Walker: “Positioned on the banks of the Mzimkulu River and ideal as a boutique guesthouse – with a cottage for an owner/manager to live in, this remarkable property is priced at R11.4 million. The homestead is both grand and inviting, with expansive interiors, large windows, and stack-away doors that flood the living spaces with natural light and frame uninterrupted views of the river.
“The landscaped, park-like grounds are enhanced by some 1 500 tall, established trees. Modern conveniences and sustainability have also been carefully considered, and the property is fully solar-powered with a back-up generator, while fresh water is supplied from a pristine mountain stream. Security features include electric fencing and roller shutter doors at the main entrances, ensuring peace of mind in this tranquil setting.”
Local activities and attractions in Underberg include the Drak Descent cycling event, Sani2C, the Drak Challenge Paddling Race, polo and polocrosse, a food and wine show, and various clubs for fishing, hiking, tennis and bowling, while the Underberg Country Club offers golf, squash, padel, swimming, touch rugby, and cricket.
For further information contact Pam Golding Properties Underberg on +27 33 7011563 or email angela.walker@pamgolding.co.za.
