Wildlife is as proudly South African as braaivleis and biltong and one of several reasons why Sardinia Bay Golf & Wildlife Estate speaks to those who say #ImStaying.
The patriotic movement that went viral was forged from our collective affinity to things uniquely South African, including those feel-good stories that want to make you roll your eyes and say, “only in South Africa”.
And of that, the Port Elizabeth lifestyle estate has many.
Where else can you wake up to the sight of a zebra having a nip and tuck at your garden or play a game of late-afternoon golf observed by a gallery of wildebeest?
And in what part of the world can children still be children in the great outdoors and among nature’s inhabitants?
The well-appointed recreation centre often beckons and younger couples with children are becoming more prevalent among the homeowners.
The estate, which hugs some of the city’s most affluent suburbs, is a firm favourite with buyers seeking Africa-style living blended with modern-day opulence.
One such couple are David and Kathy Southey, who for many years bred horses in the Colesberg region. Having lived in the country, they wanted to retire to a place that reminded them of home.
They found it at Sardinia Bay.
“From our plot we are blessed with the scenery,” says Kathy. “We look out over bush and trees and when you come from a farm that is what you are used to.
“To have the animals walking past our front door is wonderful. In fact, we see more game here than on the farm.”
While the wildlife underwrites a true African experience at the estate, other typical South African pursuits are not being neglected.
Whether at home, the recreation centre or golf clubhouse, the traditional braai is never far away. And as a nation who traditionally enjoy sports and outdoor activities, the tennis court, swimming pool and nature trails on the premises provide more than enough inspiration.
Sea and sunshine are also synonymous with the Rainbow Nation and with Sardinia Bay beach on its doorstep, the estate once again hits the #ImStaying target.
In a country where the public transport system is not as refined as in some other countries, location is one of the main driving forces when buying property and here Sardinia Bay Golf & Wildlife Estate delivers once more.
A five-minute drive separates the 100-hectare property from the peripheries of town with its multitude of restaurants, malls and medical centres. Those who need to commute regularly will find the PE International Airport just a bit further down the road.
According to Kathy, they used to drive five hours to Bloemfontein to find the nearest Woolworths – now everything is within 10 minutes. Not only did she find Woolies in her neighbourhood, but the perfect lifestyle.