KNYSNA NEWS - If it’s good enough for Nelson and Graca…
Love 'em or hate 'em, but the Noetzie castles skirting Knysna have become an international tourist landmark. And whether you find them to be the epitome of a neoliberal dream or an eyesore, an awkward exercise in ostentation or simply a Disney-like curiosity – they are there to stay.
And now three of the fairytale edifices – that have hosted luminaries such as Nelson Mandela and Graca – looming over the shoreline of the picture-perfect Noetzie Beach just east of Knysna, have been sold by High Street Auctions for R28.5-million, including furniture.
The properties comprise Pezula Castle, Beach Castle and Cliff Castle. Pezula Castle is wedged into in its own manicured private garden on the beachfront with a heated rim-flow pool, sprawling terraces with ocean vistas and a gym.
Beach Castle is a secluded romantic hideaway draped in cream-and-blue nautical trimmings.
Cliff Castle is set back against the rock face above Pezula Castle with broad views of the ocean, guaranteed privacy and comes complete with a luxurious en-suite bedroom and an adjoining open-plan living area with kitchenette.
In total, the three properties offer five suites of upmarket accommodation with the bells and whistles of an internationally acclaimed guesthouse for the well-to-do.
Said High Street lead auctioneer and director Joff van Reenen, “The international buyer initially approached us at the auction with an offer and after some vigorous negotiation the parties agreed on the sale price. The necessary guarantees have now been met and the sale is through.”
According to Van Reenen, one of the castles served as a 10-day retreat for Madiba and Graca Machel who commented, “We really touched our inner selves here with the combination of beauty, privacy and human touch. Thanks a million.”
That combination of service and luxury earned the castle the accolade of best international property in the CNBC International Property Awards. It was selected out of 4 000 entries from 56 countries in Africa, the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, Britain and the Americas. It was chosen judged on location, architecture, design, appearance and finish. Details of safety, security, energy efficiency and innovation were also taken into account.
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