Property for sale in Somerset West, Western Cape

The unflagging interest in Somerset West property can be traced way back to the very first years of colonial exploration in South Africa. In 1655, a mere three years after the Dutch had established their trading-station at the Cape of Good Hope, Governor Simon van der Stel launched an exploration of the coastal-interior to the east of that original Cape-settlement. When the expedition reached the footholds of the Hottentots Holland mountain range, the Governor instinctively saw the potential of utilising this site as settlement and 'trading-post'. The purchase of land from the local Chainokwa, (one of the native Khoikhoi-clans which populated the region), was however only concluded in 1672. The site was initially developed (in 1700), with the farm 'Vergelegen' as central, agricultural node. In 1817 'Vergelegen' served as a focal point for the official founding of a town to serve the needs of an ever-expanding community. This village was named Somerset, in honor of Governor Lord Charles Somerset who represented British-authority in the Cape Colony at the time. In 1850, the village was renamed Somerset West. Somerset West - one of the prime areas for property in South Africa. Today, the Somerset West houses region occupies a unique niche within the Western Cape’s residential- options. Somerset West maintains trendsetting standards in both rural and urban lifestyles, with an array of leisure-activities that benefit from the untarnished beauty of the surrounding region. The town’s proximity to kilometers of sandy beaches serves to emphasise a charm and character usually only associated with that of a lazy holiday-resort. The Helderberg and Hottentots Holland mountain-ranges poses as a stark backdrop to the Somerset West slopes perched above an awesome False Bay coastline, with Table Mountain clearly visible in the distance. The old business- district reflects the traditional values of yesteryear; yet the town can boast of a modern commercial hub, an extensive range of entertainment-options, superb private- and public-schools, and cultural attractions which meet every demand of a cosmopolitan community. Erinvale Golf Estate is the world- renowned flagship amongst a large selection of golf-courses in the region, while hiking trails provide for effortless distraction in the languid countryside. Productions at the Playhouse Theatre and open-air events staged at the Helderberg Nature Reserve vie for attention from patrons of the Arts. 'Vergelegen', on the Helderberg Wine Route and now one of the oldest and most prestigious wine-estates in the world, rates a compulsory visit. The diversity of the Somerset West real estate region is reflected in the significant scope of Somerset West property. The town provides every possible category of investment options, with most properties meeting the magical feature of 'location…location…location'. These include compact apartments and classic family homes to palatial designer homes and imposing historic homesteads. Undeveloped plots are however in short supply. Tranquil retirement villages and trendy golf estates are located in close proximity to essential infrastructure, while reputable guest houses attract a regular clientele of international visitors. The rural surrounds are dotted with both quaint country mansions and smallholdings which all reflect the quaint status of Somerset West. Somerset West property is undoubtedly among the most sought-after real estate in South Africa. The town is located at the most strategic point of access to not only the Cape metropolis, but also to the vibrant Stellenbosch property area, the indulgences of the glorious wine-routes and the natural beauty of the Western Cape. Somerset West is home to many retired folk, whom appreciate the convenience of residing in close proximity to all essential facilities, yet treasure the freedom of country living. Cape Town International Airport is a leisurely half-hour drive along the N2 freeway. A half-hour drive in the opposite direction will allow you to spend a blissful day of whale watching along rugged stretches of the magnificent eastern- seaboard! It is only whilst investigating all the options provided by Somerset West property that realization dawns: ‘'Somerset West is the best of all worlds'. Read Less