Zwartkloof Game Reserve is situated 13 km west of Bela-Bela (Warmbaths) on the R516 leading to Zebula (Mabalingwe) and Mabula. The Bela-Bela area is rapidly developing into one of the prime recreational areas of South Africa. Two exclusive golf estates, Zebula (Mabalingwe) and Elements, are a short drive away. The development will be accessible by tarred road from Pretoria, in just over one hour. As such it will be one of the closest game reserve developments to Bela-Bela, without compromising its quintessential, secluded, bushveld character. This sense of seclusion is caused by the unique topography of the property, in the foothills of the Waterberg.
As one approaches Zwartkloof from the Springbok flats, a kloof bordered by 300m high hills, forms a dramatic backdrop to the main entrance. This kloof (after which the farm was named) was formed by the Zwartkloof river forcing its way through these hills, from the catchment basin beyond. This secluded basin is surrounded by low hills, blocking out most of the surrounding human activities. The bulk of the development will take place in this basin, lending it a distinct, contained ambience.
STANDS
All stands have been positioned at least 100m apart with views, big trees, rocks, privacy, views, visual disturbance and noise pollution taken into account. The size of the stands, 2500m2, have been deliberately chosen to limit the impact on the natural environment but still allow for a sizable lodge to be built, if so desired.
A limited number of corporate stands (1 ha) are also being made available. All buildings will have to conform to certain architectural guidelines. This will add to the quality of the development but will still allow for personal preferences. Apart from a gate with facilities for guards a communal complex is also planned that will house the administrative office, communication center, library, clubhouse and swimming pool. The combined surface area of all plots, communal facilities and infrastructure will be under 100 ha. This will amount to only 5% of the total area of 2000 ha being developed.
All of the above will ensure a highly accessible, low-density, ecologically sensitive development of exceptional quality. The development application process, as well as the environmental impact assessment, have been initiated. Various specialist studies are also being undertaken in support of these applications. Final approval is expected in the last quarter of 2005. Interested investors can already start viewing the property and reserve stands in the first phase.
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