Private Edition Issue 63

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SHAPED BY TIMELESS ELEGANCE.

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Experience the ultimate expression of design thanks to a completely redesigned front. Coupled with the newest MBUX system and the latest technology. A journey for the senses, refined in every sense.

FROM THE EDITOR

ISSUE 63 2024

WHILE I’M LUCKY ENOUGH

to enjoy sea and mountain views from my home, living up close and personal with nature comes with its own set of challenges. I’ve stumbled across more scorpions and snakes in my garden and house than I’d really ever want to, including a baby Cape cobra that reared its head when I went to inspect what was coiled up on my living-room rug. I’ve had eagles swoop across my property looking for prey (my dogs are thankfully adept at hiding), and I was once visited by a lost (but confident) male baboon. And why the guinea fowl have to land on my bedroom roof before sunrise with their enthusiastic chatter, only the guinea fowl know.

As a born-and-bred Joburger I do not take the sea or mountains for granted. But on my frequent visits to the City of Gold, which will always have my heart, my pulse still quickens at the sight of the towering clouds of the highveld skies, and the crashing sound of a dramatic thunderstorm. A weekend in the bushveld remains my favourite getaway, and being close enough to a herd of elephant to hear their singular low rumble is one of life’s most thrilling experiences.

It is often the immense beauty of South Africa that helps us to forget momentarily the woes of the world and instead see life with amazement and wonder.

In this issue of Private Edition, we celebrate the many people dedicated to preserving and celebrating the natural world from which so many of us draw inspiration and comfort. Take the group of divers and surfers turned coral gardeners who grow coral nurseries to replant into the oceans to regenerate the world’s ailing reefs (‘Planet of Hope’, page 22).

In ‘Second Nature’ (page 40), a new generation of artists and designers follows the age-old tradition of drawing inspiration from nature. The results are astonishing regardless of the medium. Ceramics, photography, art and sculpture culminate in works that are a reminder of why the beauty of the planet must be protected.

One seldom hears of a home being ‘stitched’ into a landscape. In this issue’s architecture story, we look inside an international-award-winning Cape Winelands home that has been seamlessly designed to fit into its natural surrounds (‘A Stitch in Time’, page 34).

And finally in ‘Creation of Heaven on Earth’ (page 54), we meet the owners of one of the most southerly wine-producing areas in the world, the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Their renowned farm, Creation, has within two decades emerged as Africa’s best wine farm and is leading the charge to protect one of humanity’s oldest industries – that of winemaking. Cheers to that!

EDITOR SUSAN NEWHAM-BLAKE snewham@tppsa.co.za

ART DIRECTOR TINA REDDELL

COPY EDITOR WENDY MARITZ

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

BERNICE BLUNDELL bernice@adplacements.co.za 073 618 1882

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR SUSAN NEWHAM-BLAKE

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR JOHN MORKEL

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER LIZ WOLFE

FINANCIAL MANAGER NAEEMA ABRAHAMS

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Private Edition is published by The Publishing Partnership (Pty) Ltd, 8th Floor, Tarquin House, 81 Loop Street, Cape Town 8001. Copyright: The Publishing Partnership (Pty) Ltd 2024. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from The Publishing Partnership or the authors. The publishers are not responsible for any unsolicited material. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of The Publishing Partnership or the editor.

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ISSN: 2218-063X

ICE CUBE

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As the legends of

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50 THE PRETTY TRAP

Should manufacturers reinvent the icons of their past? It’s a tricky strategy as Mercedes-Benz, Lancia and Ferrari may soon find out.

54 CREATION OF HEAVEN ON EARTH

Creation has within two decades emerged as Africa’s best wine farm and is leading the charge to protect one of humanity’s oldest industries.

58 ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE

After recently securing a spot in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, La Colombe’s executive chef, James Gaag, is getting the international recognition he deserves.

64 HAVENS OF CALM

Dubai’s luxurious retreats offer sanctuary for travellers seeking a space for repose and rejuvenation.

COLLECTION 2024

COLLECTION 2024

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The digital luxury guide

Private Edition Digital is a dedicated luxury news and lifestyle guide that features reviews, opinions, videos and stories about the best, most exclusive cars, watches, art, travel, style and much more. Find us online at PrivateEdition.co.za, or like Private Edition magazine on Facebook and be the first to discover the latest developments and news from the world’s most covetable brands, curated by the digital team behind Private Edition. You can also subscribe to our newsletter for a roundup of the latest trends and stories every two weeks, so you never miss a moment in luxury.

For the best life has to offer, PrivateEdition.co.za is an essential resource.

A NEW FIRST: THE 140TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED EDITIONS

Harnessing the manufacture caliber B19, Breitling’s first exclusive perpetual calendar chronograph movement. A tribute to 140 years of watchmaking innovation.

PREMIER B19 DATORA I NAVITIMER B19 CHRONOGRAPH I SUPER CHRONOMAT B19

THE BRIEFING

DESIGN

Elevating exterior spaces

THE ROCHE BOBOIS OUTDOOR COLLECTION IS AN EXQUISITE SYMPHONY OF COMFORT AND DESIGN.

Whether you’re relaxing on the patio, enjoying the serenity of your garden, or basking in the sun poolside, Roche Bobois’s latest outdoor collection is an invitation to embrace the outdoors with the same elegance and sophistication found in your interiors.

Each piece in this collection marries innovative design with the finest in artisanal craftsmanship. The result is a luxurious al fresco experience that elevates your outdoor spaces into true extensions of your home. rochebobois.com

ACCELERATE

Cat’s got the cream

JAGUAR’S FUTURE MIGHT BE ELECTRIC, BUT JLR SOUTH AFRICA NEEDS LOCALS TO REMEMBER THAT ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST TANTALISING V8s IS STILL AVAILABLE, RIGHT NOW. BY

At Jaguar’s recent track-day drive experience, its tastiest current machinery was put to the test against the backdrop of the Franschhoek mountains. Jaguar’s fastest and sharpest, the F-Pace SVR and F-Type R75, were both there to get the message across that Jaguar is still making arresting cars and remains proud of its racing heritage.

There was a surprise, too. The electric I-Pace, something of a pioneer in the electric evolution, was also on hand to remind drivers why electric needn’t be dull. Around the private Franschhoek racetrack, it showed exactly why all that instant torque is a great attribute powering into the main straight.

But really it was all about the 5-litre, V8 supercharged machines. The F-Type, still pretty after all these years, sounds and goes like it was made just for petrolheads, while being one of the most useable sportscars around.

And, special treat, JLR displayed two ultra-rare Jaguar F-Type ZP Editions (the final F-Type and the farewell V8 for Jaguar), inspired by the racing E-Types of the 1960s. There are only 150 in the world. South Africa gets two, and a little bird told Private Edition that one is still available to buy.

And don’t forget Jaguar’s driving experience programme in Lonehill at its bespoke track. Book a morning and channel your inner Le Mans champion. jaguar.co.za/experience/courses/dynamic-experience

DESIGN

Platefuls of beauty

SIGNATURE PERSONALISED DINNERWARE IS YOURS FOR THE TAKING WITH MERVYN GERS CERAMICS’ NEW OFFERING.

The ultimate in luxury is most probably your own signature dinnerware set, personalised to your specifications. Leading studio Mervyn Gers Ceramics has added this bespoke design service for discerning interior-design enthusiasts and trendsetters.

Mervyn Gers, owner and creator of the brand, explains: ‘Individualism has become more accentuated during the past two years, as has the use of colour to lift our moods and increase our dopamine levels. We’ve seen people expressing themselves more in the way they live, dress and decorate their homes.’

Over the years, Mervyn Gers Ceramics has made bespoke ceramics and dinnerware for established wine and game farms, and hotels and restaurants, including Klein Jan, La Colombe, Londolozi Game Reserve, Singita, Tintswalo Atlantic, and many more.

Now Mervyn Gers has broadened this service to individual clients. ‘We offer a service whereby a member of our team will consult with the client to decide on their range of personalised dinnerware, whether it be green or blue, a specific design featuring family crests, names or facts of historical value, or whatever strikes your fancy,’ says Gers.

A move away from the world of mass production for those who want to make their own mark on their interiors... and lifestyle. mervyngers.com

TASTINGS

A decadent journey

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN CHEF STEFAN BEKKER’S WORLD OF FLAVOUR AT ERINVALE ESTATE HOTEL & SPA’S WINEMAKER’S EVENINGS.

The intimate dinners take place at Stefan’s, Erinvale’s fine-dining restaurant, where chef Stefan Bekker and his team create an inviting ambience with their combination of warm service and lavish yet unpretentious dishes. Each event features a sevencourse table d’hôte menu paired with wines from South Africa’s finest estates. Rather than addressing guests at the start of each course, the winemakers visit your table as you make your way through your meal at your own pace. And if you happen to overindulge in one or two of the delectable tipples on offer, book a night at Erinvale and spend some time exploring Somerset West’s wine farms, conveniently situated a stone’s throw away. erinvale.co.za

ART

Art for conservation

AN UPCOMING LIVE AUCTION CAN GO A LONG WAY TO HELP SOUTH AFRICA’S MOST ENDANGERED ANIMALS.

In 2012 former cricketer Mark Boucher established The Boucher Legacy. Today it serves as a beacon of hope for African wildlife conservation with a focus on protecting rhinos, African wild dogs and pangolins. You can join the Boucher Legacy on Friday 27 September for an online Art for Conservation live auction where one-of-a-kind artworks will be showcased from reputable wildlife artists. Online bidding opens one week before the live auction. Your winning bid contributes directly to the protections of our beloved country’s endangered animals. boucherlegacy.co.za/auction

DEPARTURES

Collision of veld and sea

THE LAUNCH OF THE WILD COAST’S GWEGWE BEACH LODGE BRINGS THE BEST OF THE BEACH AND THE BUSH TO CONSCIOUS TRAVELLERS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE. BY

A model of hope, GweGwe Beach Lodge (which falls under Natural Selection’s luxury safaris) is located within the pristine Mkambati Nature Reserve, a 7 700-hectare private concession along an untamed stretch of the Wild Coast.

Seven surrounding communities won a land claim resulting in them owning the reserve – a concept dedicated to the conservation and protection of the natural, as well as the cultural environment. According to Dr Div de Villiers, former director of the Provincial Department of Environmental Affairs and current conservation advisor for both the Mkambati Nature Reserve and GweGwe Beach Lodge, these seven communities consist of more than 40 000 people, who all stand to benefit from the land. GweGwe Beach Lodge serves as one of the best possible ways for them to profit financially as they receive a percentage of the net income, in addition to direct and indirect job opportunities and training. In the 30 years that he’s been involved at Mkambati, Div says there’s never been such a high level of excitement and positivity about the reserve and the work that is being provided to the local people.

The lodge, which consists of seven Deluxe Suites and two Family Suites, all beautifully designed with humble hues and tasteful textures, can be accessed by road, boat, helicopter or plane and is located right on the beach with views across the ocean. Geared towards true nature lovers, GweGwe Beach Lodge is the ultimate luxury beach and bush safari, offering the best of both worlds. Activities include kayaking and standup paddling along the pristine estuary, birding opportunities, including watching giant kingfishers ambush prey on the Mtentu River, and spotting wild orchids. Add to that the Mkhambathi Falls, which drop straight into the ocean, and GweGwe becomes a bucket-list-worthy destination well worth exploring. naturalselection.travel

PRIVATE TIME

Planet of hope

EXCITING CONSERVATION STEPS TAKEN WITHIN THE NEXT 10 YEARS WILL DETERMINE WHAT HAPPENS ON EARTH OVER THE NEXT 10 000.

Preeminent oceanographer Dr Sylvia Earle, whose pioneering work on SCUBA gear and the development of deep-sea submersibles, is an advocate for Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, a programme supporting leading scientific efforts to preserve the natural world.

‘What we’ve done is identify critical areas that represent a real hope of restoring the health of our imperilled ocean,’ Earle says of ocean advocacy group Mission Blue’s network of so-called Hope Spots, ecologically unique areas of the ocean needing protection.

There are now around 160 Hope Spots worldwide and the network is expanding. While a mere 8.2% of the sea currently enjoys any form of protection, and less than 3% of the ocean is fully or highly protected from fishing, Earle hopes to have protections extended to 30% of the ocean by 2030.

Each year new places are nominated for inclusion. One local Hope Spot is False Bay. Declared in 2014 for its dense kelp forests, it stretches from Cape Point to Hangklip. In June, the ecologically rich Florida Keys and Ten Thousand Islands, which includes Biscayne Bay, were also added.

As part of its Perpetual Planet Initiative, Rolex is also supporting Coral Gardeners, a group championing reef regeneration through the establishment of coral nurseries

Founder Titouan Bernicot grew up in French Polynesia and, as a freediver and surfer, witnessed first-hand the catastrophic effects of coral bleaching on the waters around his island home. Driven to act rather than idly watch the devastation unfold, he recruited friends to collaborate on a project he initially set up in his bedroom when he was just 16. They taught themselves to cultivate resilient ‘supercorals’ and transplant these to reefs, where they’re attached using marine cement.

Since 2017, these gardeners have not only established coral nurseries across French Polynesia but initiated plans to expand into Fiji, the Caribbean and Southeast Asia. They’re on track to becoming the world’s largest and most advanced coral regeneration programme, restoring colour – and life – to our reefs. ‘We’re not saving the coral reefs because it’s cool or fun,’ Bernicot says. ‘We’re doing this because it’s our life. I cannot imagine living on a planet without reefs or viable oceans. This is why I must have hope.’ rolex.com

Summertime cool

TAG HEUER’S AVANT-GARDE EYEWEAR IS AN INVITATION TO EXPLORE A NEW WORLD WHERE PRECISION, SPORT AND DESIGN SEAMLESSLY MERGE TOGETHER.

The much-anticipated TAG Heuer Avant-Garde Eyewear collection is here – just in time for summer. Meticulously engineered for precision, craftsmanship, comfort and unrivalled visual clarity, the new collection caters to various lifestyles: Shield Pro, Line, VingtSept, Bolide and Flex. Time to confidently step into summer. picotandmoss.co.za

STYLE

CONQUEST

BARBARA PALVIN

DEPARTURES

The grande dame of Hermanus

WHILE HERMANUS FIRST EVOLVED AS A FISHING VILLAGE AND WHALING STATION IN THE 1800s, A CRITICAL REASON CITY DWELLERS VISITED THE TOWN 125 YEARS AGO WAS TO GIVE THEIR LUNGS AND BODIES A REPRIEVE BY IMBIBING THE ‘CHAMPAGNE AIR’. BY

That spirit of renewal, relaxation and recuperation persists at The Marine Hotel, which evolved from the original sanatoria established here for well-to-do urban refugees. Today, many more luxuries – including a pampering spa and chef Oelof Vorster’s meticulous menus – add to that allure. And as much as Hermanus is evolving and keeping pace with the times, when you cross the threshold into this grande dame of the South African hospitality scene, there’s that rare sensation of stepping

ever so slightly back in time, returning to a more gracious era. It’s the effortless pampering, the generous proportions of the guest rooms, the sink-in comfort of its lounges, the lingering old-school fabulousness of its conservatory spaces where bright sunlight filters through huge glass windows framing those wideopen skies, rugged cliffs and wild sea. There are few finer places to take in the sunset, watch the sky melting into the sea, perhaps holding your breath at the sight of a breaching whale adding rapture and drama to a perfectly exquisite scene outside.

Hermanus is Africa’s first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, and you can set off on a three-hour on-foot food safari with Eat Like a Local to discover some of the town’s culinary hidden gems. Or, if it’s a wine safari you’re keen on, the nearby Hemel-en-Aarde Valley – where viticulture and biodiversity harmoniously co-exist – is a rapturously gorgeous place to taste some of the world’s finest Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs as part of a rewarding cellar-to-cellar adventure. (More on Creation wines in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley on page 54.) themarinehotel.co.za

EN POINTE

Along with demanding choreography, a new artistic head has brought a liberating energy to the southern hemisphere’s oldest ballet company.

THE POET, John Dryden, called dancing ‘the poetry of the foot’ and Einstein said dancers are ‘the athletes of God’. And for good reason.

At their Rondebosch HQ, Cape Town City Ballet’s dancers rehearse for their first production of the company’s 90th anniversary. One moment they perform propulsive gymnastics, the next, they transform into human sculptures, motionless with raised legs ruler-straight, toes pointed skywards. They flex and stretch, balance and spin, perform power-lifts as they hoist partners over shoulders, or hold them high overhead. Dancers toss dancers into the air and catch them again with poetic ease. Then they leap and twirl, fingers poised, calves bulging, heads at just-so angles.

And all of this with a sense of unwavering cool. Aside from a few glints of sweat, barely a hint of effort or pain registers, only broad smiles and raringto-go enthusiasm, vim and brio despite burning muscles, old injuries and lungs on fire.

At the end of it all, when the dancers finally seem to breathe again, Canadian-born choreographer David Nixon looks momentarily satisfied with their exertions, pleased with the show’s progress. And rather than calling for a break, has them go again.

Throughout his career, Nixon has made a name for himself creating dance shows that have steered ballet into a more contemporary, genre-straddling domain. He’s known for achieving crowd-pleasing results. In the UK, where for two decades he was artistic director of Leeds-based Northern Ballet until 2021, he transformed the company into a powerhouse of innovation and box-office successes. Within 20 years, he created 13 new works including a Nazithemed Hamlet and an ‘intergalactic’ Sleeping Beauty.

Aside from knowing how to please audiences, Nixon’s real talent has been for giving dancers what they require to be challenged and to grow. As a

choreographer, his reputation has been for pushing dancers to their edge. ‘I can be quite “demanding” as a director,’ he says.

‘My work is strongly ballet-based, but also very physical. My dancers have to be fit to do this kind of work. And there’s an articulation, a cleanliness and a sophistication of movement that brings a crispness – a clarity – to what ends up on stage.’

For his inaugural production as Cape Town City Ballet’s new artistic producer, he’d chosen a show that he first completed while heading up Ohio’s BalletMet in Columbus, where he was based before moving to England. With the musical score by George Gershwin, the choreography infuses classical technique with elements of other forms, and requires incredible stamina, strength and endurance.

Nixon believes the Gershwin programme, I Got Rhythm, is a good way of loosening up a company. ‘It enables the dancers to move out of whatever style they’ve become set in,’ he said.

Despite its liberating energy, Nixon admits his work is challenging. For the company, it’s been like a lightning rod.

‘These rehearsals are a shock to the system,’ says dancer Hannah Ward, during a break. ‘We’ve got to bring a lot to the work and it’s very showy. Towards the end of a 10-minute section, you’re absolutely exhausted, and yet that’s precisely when you need to pick it up, so you need so much stamina.’

‘It’s probably one of the toughest things I’ve ever done,’ says Fanelo Ndweni, a dancer who grew up in Johannesburg. ‘I’m used to dancing either ballet or contemporary or African, but this choreography requires a mixture of styles, so it’s a real change of pace.’

If anyone knows how to facilitate that change of pace, it’s Nixon. He brings with him a wealth of understanding about where ballet is moving internationally. ‘I’ve been a director for 28 years and

over time you see how things evolve. We are dancing now with more physicality, but you have to have a strong classical dance technique to do it well. Sure, it’s hard at first. But if you train your body properly and grow sufficiently strong, you can dance at this level.’

Nixon says he’s confident the Cape Town dancers are ‘on the road to where they need to be’. To help fast-track their evolution, Nixon has, along with his wife, ballet mistress Yoko Ichino, developed a training method that they’ve used for years to build dancers to a certain level. Ichino, who began her professional career with Joffrey Ballet II in 1972 and has partnered with, among others, Rudolph Nuryev, spent two weeks taking the company through a rigorous back-to-basics bootcamp in order to begin conditioning their bodies for Nixon’s choreography.

‘It was humbling,’ says Ward about Ichino’s training. ‘As you get older, your body just doesn’t necessarily respond as easily.

You lose a bit of range and flexibility, so everything becomes harder to achieve. Yoko’s method has been incredibly helpful –it helps you use your body more wisely and efficiently.’

Nixon, who was himself tireless and committed during the height of his dancing career, knows the degree to which choreographers will push their dancers to get the results they envision – sometimes to the point where it’s almost inhuman.

The trick, according to veteran dancers, is to avoid becoming obsessed with pain and injury, and instead get swept up in the levity and sense of lightness that comes from performing. Most dancers tend to agree that the joy of dancing has the effect of making most of the physical hardships dissipate – at least while they are on stage. It’s a kind of resilience, a sort of pain-eliminating exhilaration that was best expressed by the great American choreographer, Merce Cunningham, who said that although dance leaves you with no physical artefact – no manuscript, no photographs – what it gives you instead is one intense, fleeting moment in which you are truly alive.

‘This art form is so demanding of you physically and emotionally,’ says Kirstél Paterson, who, while watching Giselle as a fiveyear-old girl, decided she wanted to dance. ‘But this is my job and this is what I love to do. And there is nothing else that compares to the way dancing on stage makes me feel. Nothing.’

‘Yes, there are disappointments,’ says Ndweni. ‘But as long as you keep pushing yourself to be the very best that you can be, there will also be incredible moments of intense joy. So, when you fall, you just have to get back up and carry on. I know I have to push through. I can’t give up because my fellow dancers aren’t giving up. They are pushing through as well.’ 

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT A scene from David Nixon’s I Got Rhythm, a George Gershwin-inspired ballet designed to stretch and challenge dancers.

Cape Town City Ballet dancers Jordan Roelfze, Leané Theunissen and Isabella Redman capture the spirit of I Got Rhythm

Cape Town City Ballet’s Kirstél Paterson and Leusson Muniz perform a pas de deux from I Got Rhythm

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THE SPIRIT OF ENDURANCE

As the legends of the sea forge ahead on their quest to conquer the 37th America’s Cup, Private Edition shares an exclusive interview with the CEO of Panerai, the official sponsor of the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli sailing team.

THE PRESTIGIOUS SAILING EVENT, the America’s Cup, is known to be the oldest continuous competition in international sport. Taking place this year from August to October, the race promises to be an exhilarating spectacle with the current New Zealand trophy holders being challenged by various yacht clubs intent on claiming victory.

The Italian sailing team, Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, has a long America’s Cup history, having first competed in 2000 and having taken part in nearly every event since. And with its Italian heritage, the iconic watch brand Panerai is the perfect official sponsor for the team.

At a private event held in Johannesburg for a select gathering of loyal customers, Panerai’s CEO Jean-Marc Pontroue shares his enthusiasm for this exciting partnership.

‘The sponsorship is a big deal for us, with about a billion people viewing the race between August and October,’ he says. ‘But it’s also about the ecosystem of people you work with in this kind of partnership. Panerai creates watches that take inspiration from the materials and technology used in the America’s Cup. You have engineers who search for materials that enhance performance to help the boat be as fast as possible. These are the same qualities we look for in our watches.’

There are other benefits to partnerships like these, such as the ability to test the watches in real time, which, as any loyal customer knows, is part of the appeal of such a performancefocused brand.

‘We have people who test our watches in the most challenging conditions you can imagine,’ says Pontroue. ‘When you work with guys like that – adventurers, Navy SEALs, the Luna Rossa team – they’ll push you to develop specifications for watches that are beyond what your average person needs. They’re not interested in the price of the watch. After six months, the watches are returned with their feedback regarding comfort, precision, performance, how user-friendly they are. They use the watches for their work, so the watches need to work for them.

‘PANERAI CREATES WATCHES THAT TAKE INSPIRATION FROM THE MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGY USED IN THE AMERICA’S CUP.’

‘For loyal customers of Panerai, it’s not necessarily about utilising the watch themselves but the pride and pleasure in having a watch with such capabilities.’

Pontroue is more than a little passionate about the brand of which he’s been at the helm since 2018. On his decision to join Panerai, he says it was because Panerai is different to other watch brands. For a start, it is younger than so many of its counterparts, many of which have been around for 100 to 200 years. It is also unusual that the brand is Italian, as opposed to Swiss.

Another unique element of the brand is what has been coined the Paneristi, a dedicated community of loyal Panerai customers. It consists of more than 30 000 members with more than 30 hubs around the world and was started by the members themselves.

OPPOSITE PAGE A brand inspired by the innovation and majesty of

the yachting world.
TOP RIGHT Panerai CEO Jean-Marc Pontroue with Springbok rugby player Kurt-Lee Arendse at a recent exclusive event held in Johannesburg.
RIGHT The impressive Submersible Tourbillon GMT Luna Rossa Experience Edition (PAM01405) 20-piece release.

LEFT The Submersible Luna Rossa PAM01565 pays tribute to Panerai’s role as sponsor of the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli sailing team.

BELOW LEFT Panerai South Africa personalises watch straps for its customers. Here, ‘Private Edition’ adorns a sample the brand produced for us.

BELOW RIGHT Submersible Quaranta-Quattro Luna Rossa Ti-Ceramitech™ (PAM01543) is inspired by the high-performance world of competitive sailing.

Each year there’s a meeting somewhere in the world (this year it’s in Kuala Lampur). Pontroue says, ‘Every year 200 Paneristi gather from all over the world for a three-day exchange about Panerai. This year I’ll attend and host one of the evenings. I always start by addressing the audience, saying: “Don’t start to challenge me, I know you know the brand better than I do!”’

The formation of the Paneristi subsequently led to the Panerai Xperiences Program, an exclusive offering that provides a select few with access to a world of unique experiences.

‘I always wondered what I could do to surprise the Paneristi. I wanted to come up with experiences and places where ordinary people cannot go. For instance, we’ve had the famous adventurer Mike Horn lead a group to the North Pole. Or we might give you the keys to the Vatican City and you can open the doors, switch on the lights and be the first ones into the Vatican that day. These unique experiences are offered with the release of an associated timepiece.’

These limited-edition collections – no more than 50 pieces are produced and each is a symbol of an experience – are reserved for only a very few.

Unsurprisingly, this year sees the launch of the Luna Rossa Experience where you can feel the thrill of competition and extreme performance with the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team during their 37th America’s Cup endeavours in Barcelona. The experience gives participants race access with the Luna Rosa Prada Pirelli team and lets them live the competition from the inside, while embracing the vibrancy and lifestyle of the Catalan culture. And, of course, there’s access to one of only a select number of Panerai’s timepieces. 

Visit the Panerai Boutique in Sandton City, Johannesburg, or call 011 784 0012.

HIGH TECH, HIGH PERFORMANCE

The new Panerai Luna Rossa watches belong to the Submersible family, and feature a new material called Ti-Ceramitech, a titanium alloy that has undergone a patented titanium ‘ceramization’ process through electrolytic plasma oxidation, resulting in the case’s handsome blue hue. According to Panerai, the process turns the surface of the titanium alloy into a dense ceramic layer, improving the material’s hardness. Ti-Ceramitech is 44% lighter than steel and has a fracture toughness 10 times higher than traditional ceramic. This material was seven years in the making at the Panerai Laboratorio di Idee at the Panerai Manufacture in Neuchâtel and epitomises Panerai’s dedication to advanced technologies as well as the spirit of Luna Rossa’s quest for daring performances.

IA STITCH IN

T’S SELDOM one hears talk of a home that’s been ‘stitched’ into a landscape. It’s not the sort of sartorial language architects tend to use. So, it’s a word one latches onto when listening to Michelle Rhoda, a director at ARRCC interior architecture and design studio, talk through a contemporary country villa in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley, for which she was project lead. That the home’s been ‘stitched’ intimately connects it to its surrounds, effectively blurring the

boundaries between indoors and out, and is one of many unusual characteristics of the project. Others include the overriding limitations of the architectural and design brief, and the fact that the heart of the home – its living area off which all wings flow – has the openness of a pavilion. It’s these that the judges took note of when awarding the villa residential winner of the World Architecture News Awards EMEA 2024. Among other praiseworthy comments, the judging panel said, ‘It’s a stunning

TIME

When awarding the villa residential winner, World Architecture News Awards judges praised the innovative pool canopy, saying it ‘frames the views and at the same time creates a sense of enclosure for the outdoor space’.

With graceful sartorial lines seamlessly surrendering to its natural surrounds, this international-award-winning Cape Winelands home offers a new take on country living.

home expressive of its location and executed with skill and rigorous consideration of detailing. The way that the landscape penetrates the house and the dramatic views out of the house are well-considered.’

‘The layout of the home comprises five overlapping squares – it’s a cruciform arrangement,’ Rhoda explains. ‘This creates a series of green pockets and courtyards around the house, as if it were stitched into the landscape.’ There’s that word, but what does it mean? Simply put, this is no uniformly rectangular or square home. Nor is it L-, U-, or even the more complex H-shaped. Rather, four squares interlock with the corners of a central rectangle, the entertainment space. Three of these house sleeping quarters, pyjama lounges, TV rooms and studies, while the fourth features the kitchen, scullery and utility rooms. The advantage of this configuration is that it allows for more external ‘surface area’, up against which the landscape can run. It’s much like a serrated potato crisp, with its grooves creating more capture space for flavouring.

Here, the flavour comes from the home’s relationship to its environment, the Simonsberg, Drakenstein and Paarl Rock mountains, all of which – through a considered use of pocketing glass sliding doors – are welcomed into the home. The villa’s floorplan not only maximises views in all directions, but creates sheltered outdoor living spaces on either side of the central entertainment area, so that whatever the weather, there’s always at least one windfree outdoor zone. These include two lounges, a braai

‘THE WAY THAT THE LANDSCAPE PENETRATES THE HOUSE AND THE DRAMATIC VIEWS OUT OF THE HOUSE ARE WELL-CONSIDERED.’

TOP Asymmetrical pitched ceilings add volume to the entertainment space that features the work of local artist Galia Gluckman.

LEFT Both the master bedroom’s terrace and cleverly integrated bathtub create a sense, within the room, of complete immersion within the landscape.

OPPOSITE PAGE ‘The design of the en suite was driven by the need to prioritise the panoramic view of the Drakenstein mountains,’ explains Rhoda of the master bathroom, which includes a central double shower.

station, and a pool complete with a floating island. The pool is sheltered by a white powder-coated aluminium canopy that folds to meet it. As the judges noted, this showstopper architectural structure ‘frames the views and at the same time creates a sense of enclosure for the outdoor space’.

‘This is design that’s completely surrendered to its natural surroundings,’ Rhoda says of both the interior and exterior living spaces. ‘The absence of structural columns makes for a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, and enhances the sense of a light, floating structure.’ The architectural lightness Rhoda describes is equally a result of the home’s pitched roofs, one of a number of aesthetic guidelines specified by the residential estate. These include exposed timber rafters (in keeping with a Cape vernacular), and a material palette that calls for natural stonework, off-shutter concrete and timber cladding.

ARRCC’s inclusion of the latter defines the arrival experience, with the villa’s striking entrance characterised by a double-

volume use of timber slats. Enter the lobby, and these repeat moments later, enclosing the wine cellar. The immediate sense of warmth this timber lends to these voluminous spaces extends into the lounge, with its unusually asymmetrical pitched ceiling clad in alpaca white oak, and in which lighting has been concealed. Below it, surrounded by Paco rugs, and furniture from Okha, Casarredo and Leon @ CCXIX, is another of the villa’s bespoke features: a near five-metre-long sandstone plinth, handchiselled by John De Jager Studio, atop which a glass fireplace is positioned.

Rhoda describing the villa as stitched into its surrounds attributes to ARRCC’s project a sartorial relevance, a connotation that isn’t amiss. For here is a refined home, with elongated lines, sophisticated forms and, like the most desirable of tailored garments, an elegant material palette. As she defines it, this is a home that ‘demonstrates new ways of living that are at once delightfully surprising and unmistakably innate’. 

THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT The aesthetic guidelines imposed by the residential estate called for external timber cladding. ARRCC continued this cladding indoors; in the double-volume lobby, its dramatic use fuses the material palettes of both indoors and out.

There’s a strong connection to the environment throughout the home, including in the kitchen, where walls of glass maximise views of nearby mountain ranges.

Grasses and stone cladding add texture to the villa’s entrance. DDS Projects conceptualised the project landscaping, ensuring that boundaries between the home and the surrounding terrain were blurred for complete integration within the landscape.

OPPOSITE PAGE Walls of glass in the entertainment space open fully, so that the room extends into outdoor living areas on both sides. The pavilion-like feel of the room is further enhanced by the absence of structural columns. The five-metre-long fireplace plinth separates the dining and entertainment areas.

NATURE SECOND

With our natural kingdom under greater threat than ever before, a new generation of artists and designers is following the age-old tradition of drawing inspiration from nature. For these creatives, it’s a platform for social commentary, a call to action, and an examination of the self.

Coral – deep dives into climate change

COURTNEY MATTISON NORTH AMERICA

THE CERAMICIST ‘I create enormous and intricate ceramic sculptural works inspired by the beauty and fragility of marine life in response to human-caused threats,’ says San Franciscobased artist and ocean advocate Courtney Mattison. A graduate of both ceramic sculpture and marine ecology from Skidmore University, and with environmental and design studies completed at Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design, Mattison has exhibited across the US, is featured in several public collections worldwide, and in 2020 had her work reproduced on a stamp commemorating Earth Day. Born in 1985, it was as a teenager at high school that Mattison simultaneously discovered marine biology and ceramics, turning to the latter to sculpt the marine organisms she was studying to better understand them. THE WORKS ‘It is essential that my works be ceramic, as calcium carbonate happens to be both a glaze ingredient and the compound precipitated by corals to sculpt their stony structures,’ explains Mattison. She adds another reason for opting to work with stoneware: like coral, porcelain is fragile, reinforcing a look-don’t-touch approach to observers of both. Mattison sculpts to raise awareness around the fragility of our oceans,

OPPOSITE PAGE Courtney Mattison sits below ‘Confluence (Our Changing Seas V)’, created in 2017/18. Part of the US Department of State’s permanent art collection, the massive installation is housed in the US Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia.

TOP Spiralling formations, radiating outwards from bold colour to white – as in ‘Our Changing Seas IV’ – represent the threat of coral bleaching.

and hopes her large-scale installations (oversized so as to have maximum impact) will foster in viewers not only personal connections with the marine world, but a desire to protect it. Using a coiling technique that results in hollow forms, Mattison not only replicates existing coral structures but also invents hybrids. She does so with the hope that this fantastical combination will inspire a sense of wonder in her viewers since, in the bigger picture, relatively few people on the planet get to witness the somewhat alien-looking life forms beneath the ocean’s surface. With titles like ‘Gyre’ and ‘Our Changing Seas’, her installations are characterised by spiralling movement, often with a combination of coloured and white components that speak to the threat of coral bleaching. courtneymattison.com and erichennebert.com

Earth – humankind’s progress under the lens

THE PHOTOGRAPHER ‘Some pilots feel they need to show off their flying skills,’ says aerial photographer Tom Hegen, chuckling about a frustration of life on the job. Such winged antics clearly don’t deter him from taking to the skies again and again, and the world’s a better place for it. For in the tradition of French photographer Yann Arthus-Bertrand, Hegen photographs Earth from above, and in so doing insists we confront our impact on the planet. Initially a classic landscape photographer, Hegen quickly realised that the ‘sugar-coated’ images he was capturing weren’t entirely accurate depictions of his world. ‘I wanted my landscape photography to document places influenced by humans, and not unspoiled nature.’ With almost a decade’s worth of awards under his belt, including second place in the 2023 International Photography Awards, Hegen not only exhibits globally, but has published three photographic books.

THE IMAGERY The formal underpinnings – like colour, pattern, and the rule of thirds – of Hegen’s background in graphic design strongly shape his imagery, resulting in interpretations of the Earth’s surface that are graphic and largely abstracted. His intent is to encourage society to consider and interrogate the complex relationship we share with nature, increasingly to its detriment. Overcoming logistical hurdles and following extensive research, he travels the planet, photographing from the interiors of small planes, helicopters and hot-air balloons, occasionally even using quadrocopters. His subjects? Coal, gold and copper mines, quarries, greenhouses, ash ponds and salt pans – like his recent ‘Lithium’ series shot in Chile. ‘We need to understand the value of all resources, and how supposedly positive progress may impact elsewhere,’ he says. ‘As we slowly move towards a world of sustainable energy, replacing fossil fuels with clean energy causes a new spiral of human impact on the environment.’ By capturing beauty within terrains heavily transformed by human intervention, Hegen hopes to sensitise viewers to the repercussions of pervasive mining, farming and polluting. tomhegen.com

FAR LEFT, FROM TOP Tom Hegen’s photographs

‘N°TLiS05’, ‘N°TLiS06’ and ‘N°TLiS07’, photographed in Chile in 2021 as part of his ‘Lithium Series I’, are – as images – colourrich and enticing. Yet Hegen’s message is cautionary; a warning of the darker impact man’s technological and industrial progress has on our planet.

Fruit and vegetables –artificially engineered perfection

THE DESIGNER Born in 1966 in Vienna, Robert Stadler was a co-founder in 1992 of the Radi Designers group, an industrial design collective that won the Designer of the Year Award at the Salon de Meuble in Paris in 2000. A year later, the multidisciplinary designer established his own studio in Paris, and it’s from here that he has worked on commissions for clients including Hermès and Vitra. Stadler’s design projects include restaurant interiors like that of K+ Café at the Kaiser Wilhelm Museum, olfactory installations, windows for Dior, and product and furniture pieces too numerous to mention. While not a designer who draws solely from nature, Stadler repeatedly and critically addresses current issues in his work, like his 2023 furniture collection cleverly titled ‘OMG-GMO’, which has garnered considerable recognition for its tongue-in-cheek look at the genetic manipulation of fruit and vegetables. THE OMG-GMO COLLECTION ‘My pieces highlight the artificiality of the tame fruit and vegetables we cultivate and consume,’ Stadler says, ‘drawing attention to the fact that their current form is the result of a very long process of agricultural domestication, selective breeding, and bioengineering.’ Ten amusing furniture and household pieces – everything in scale from lemon paperweights to a carrot floor lamp, and a watermelon stool to a zucchini bookshelf – include pristine fruit or vegetables all uniform in shape, and handcrafted in ceramic by Italian specialists Bitossi Ceramiche. ‘I used produce, the natural shapes of which suggest a possible use, like the boltshaped top of a zucchini for assembling shelves.’ Nodding, somewhat humorously, to a history of fruit and vegetables in art that embraces Renaissance artist Arcimboldo and Pop icon Andy Warhol’s ‘Space Fruit’, Stadler’s collection considers a world in which we strive for artificial perfection, as much in the form of square watermelons, white strawberries and straight cucumbers, as in the appearance of our faces and bodies. robertstadler.net

TOP Robert Stadler’s ‘OMG–GMO’ collection incorporates uniformly crafted ceramic fruit and vegetables, the shapes of which lend themselves to the construction of the pieces of which they are part.

ABOVE Titled ‘Juicy Josef’, a genetically modified slice of square watermelon playfully sits atop eight nuts, and questions artificial perfection.

’The forest was a massive playground to me,’ says Aneta Regel of her sylvan inspiration. These heavily textured and deeply earthy ceramic pieces were included in her ‘Memory Landscape’ exhibition last year.

BELOW ‘Erratic’ (2023) contains foraged rock components, and marries both animalistic and arboreal forms.

Forests – arboreal expressions of identity and displacement

THE CERAMICIST Born in Poland in 1976, Aneta Regel spent her formative years in Gdynia, before moving to England aged 25. She was raised in an austere apartment building, its architectural style not generally associated with creativity. But for Regel, it was the views from her home and the surrounding landscape to which she returns in her work.

‘Our flat was on the seventh floor of a tower block situated in the middle of a forest. It was a surreal setting dominated by the strong contrast of the concrete and the natural, the green and the grey,’ she recalls.

‘The forest was a massive playground for me. Trees were climbed to the point of naming certain branches and calling them home. There was a strong sense of warmth, vegetal energy and intimacy.’

THE WORKS With degrees from the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk, the University of Westminster and the Royal College of Art, Regel sculpts memories of this sylvan childhood. ‘I look to reflect that familiarity and intimacy in the pieces I make. I wanted to put that life into form, arrest motion, capture energy and rhythm. To not simply make a shape, but a feeling, a smell, an energy, an emotion.’ This connection to nature is equally about displacement and Regel’s identity, for she belongs to the last generation able to recall Poland’s Communist era and its end. Her ceramics, crafted from porcelain, stoneware clay and foraged volcanic rock, reflect techniques mastered. As Freya McLeavy, from Regel’s agent, Sarah Myerscough Gallery, describes, ‘They are repeatedly dried and re-fired, telling a story of constant metamorphosis, of conflict and change, pushing the materials to their limits in the kiln, testing their malleability and density, strengths and weaknesses.’

The results are visceral and organic, arboreal or animalistic forms with surface textures that evoke subterranean transmutations and a strong connection to past landscapes. anetaregel.com

Insects – biodiversity loss and the horrors of habitation

THE ARTIST It’s tempting to consider horticulturist turned botanical artist Chris van Niekerk a modern-day Frankenstein. From his studio in the Western Cape town of McGregor, Van Niekerk painstakingly creates insects. ‘I am attracted to the challenge and limitations of a process that requires extreme concentration, creativity and patience,’ he says of his bugs, sent out into the world to collectors and galleries. Like Frankenstein’s monster, his creatures are not taxonomically accurate, and the materials he turns to, entirely unexpected. However, unlike Frankenstein, Van Niekerk’s horror comes not in the act of creation. Instead, it’s a horror that’s endemic to mankind, and it’s to raise awareness of this that his insects exist. Having studied entomology, Van Niekerk is acutely aware of the extent to which, in recent decades, nearly a third of all land insects have been destroyed as a result of pollution, chemical pesticides and the destruction of their natural habitats. ‘I want to use my art as a means of creating awareness that the extinction of insect species threatens the continued existence of all life on earth,’ he explains.

THE ARTWORKS Quick glimpses of Van Niekerk’s framed insects can be deceiving, for there is beautiful illusion at play. To bring one’s eye up close to each is to discover the ingenuity behind its creation. ‘I meticulously shape leaves, seeds, thorns, roots, bark, grass and foraged botanical material into realistic looking miniature sculptures,’ he says of the preserved fynbos matter that is his material palette, adding that not only is the preservative biodegradable but that it accentuates fynbos colours. ‘I use my knowledge of entomology as inspiration, but don’t aim to replicate specific species.’ While his crawling and flying insects are imaginary, his use of fynbos (found only in the Western Cape) means that each creature, wherever it may find a home in the world, remains, in part, local. facebook.com/chrisvanniekerkbotanicals

ABOVE Chris van Niekerk calls on his horticultural and entomological knowledge when meticulously crafting imaginary insects –like beetles and flies –created from preserved fynbos, foraged leaves, bark and seeds.

FAR LEFT: Box-framed, many of the artist’s insects are mounted atop or alongside detailed drawings.

Seedpods – resilience in the face of personal adversity

THE ARTIST ‘After the dissolution of my marriage, I found myself buried underground, needing to choose a new way of being in the world,’ explains Cape Town’s Sarah Heinamann, of the shift in her artmaking from painting to sculpting that followed her divorce seven years ago. It was then that the artist, a 1990s graduate of London’s Central Saint Martins, turned her attention to seedpods, a symbol of the archetypal feminine. ‘Like a womb, they contain seeds, and are a space of birth and regeneration, but they’re also the part that breaks. Seedpods decay, becoming the compost that creates the fertile space for a new seed to take root.’ Recognising similarities between their lifecycle and her own, Heinamann set about collecting seedpods. Scanned three-dimensionally and printed at enlarged scales, she began a process, in one of Cape Town’s pre-eminent bronze foundries, not only of learning to forge, but of self-discovery. ‘My growth as an artist and empowered woman can be tracked, from the well-dressed woman who entered the chaos and mess of foundries and factories, asking men for help in making my pieces, to the artist I am today – one who has learnt the technical skills and gets physically involved.’

THE ARTWORKS It wasn’t long before Heinamann’s bronze seedpods evolved into her current sculptures, totems ranging in height from the tabletop to those almost two metres tall. If her small bronzes were a rite of passage, the point of arrival are her totems, explorations of her fascination with sacred geometries and the shamanic. ‘Each one is like building an altar,’ she says of her totems, which comprise not only a crowning bronze seedpod, but combinations of quartz, gemstones, patinated brass and ceramic forms. ‘Totems connect the earth and the sky, humans to God. In mine, the seedpods are elevated for one to circle and acknowledge. Ultimately that’s about reclaiming and allowing all parts of me to be seen.’ sarahheinamann.com 

TOP: Almost two metres tall, ‘The Oracle Speaks of Faith and Hope’ includes rose quartz crystals, considered to open the heart chakra.
RIGHT: ‘Closed Black Bean Tree Pod’ in bronze. PHOTOGRAPHY

ARENITE SYRAH

Experience the allure of our Arenite Syrah, where rich, beautiful red and dark fruit notes blend harmoniously with subtle hints of allspice. The whole bunch fermentation brings a delightful complexity to the savory palate, culminating in a lush finish graced by velvety tannins. Indulge in a glass and let the elegance of our Arenite Syrah captivate your senses.

THIS PAGE What better way to while away the time than poolside at The Hazendal Hotel and Spa.

OPPOSITE PAGE

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Unwind in the estate’s elegant Reading Room; sink into comfort while sampling a variety of cultivars in the Wine Tasting Lounge; each suite has been carefully curated with no detail overlooked for comfort and style; enjoy tapasstyle dining, sweet treats and other delicious fare at The Deli.

YOUR IDEAL SUMMER DESTINATION

The Hazendal Hotel and Spa, situated in the picturesque Cape Winelands, is the perfect place for a summer getaway, catering to families, couples and leisure travellers. This inviting retreat offers a variety of activities and spaces for relaxation, making it a versatile destination for all kinds of visitors.

THE HAZENDAL HOTEL AND SPA features a host of carefully curated rooms and suites reflecting the essence of Hazendal’s focus on art and fine living.

Modern conveniences are catered for, and each accommodation option offers either a private balcony with vistas of the surrounding vineyards and hills or an intimate outdoor space with views of the lake or courtyard. And the private swimming pool and world-class spa will ensure ultimate relaxation.

Families will appreciate the space and facilities at Hazendal. The grounds are ideal for children to explore, and the Wonderdal Edutainment Centre ensures they can engage in enjoyable and educational activities. Parents can take it easy, knowing their children are in a stimulating and secure environment.

For couples, Hazendal offers a serene escape. The hotel’s spa provides a range of treatments, perfect for unwinding,

while the various dining options cater to a romantic evening out. The estate’s peaceful setting and activities further enhance the experience for couples seeking a quiet retreat.

Leisure travellers will find plenty to do at Hazendal. The property includes an 18-hole, par-3 golf course, a driving range, putting park and padel court for active guests. The Marvol Art Gallery and wine-tasting lounge offer more subdued, but equally enjoyable, pursuits, while the selection of dining venues, from casual to fine dining, caters to each and every taste.

The Hazendal Hotel and Spa is not just a place to stay; it’s the perfect destination for a unique escape in the Winelands. Whether you’re travelling with family, as a couple, or simply looking for a leisurely break, this estate promises a memorable summer experience with something for everyone. 

Hazendal.co.za | 021 903 5034

MIX STYLE AND NOSTALGIA with a dollop of automotive history and the result should be a slam dunk. But reinventing classic models isn’t that simple. Both Mini and VW Beetle struggled in translation, Beetle especially. So, news that iconic manufacturers Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari and Lancia are planning legacy reinventions of some of their best-loved and prettiest cars, is intriguing. Have they learnt the lessons, or are they heading for trouble?

FERRARI DAYTONA

With its launch in 1966, the Lamborghini Miura saw the invention of a whole new class of automobile: the supercar. Until then, fast

cars had engines either in the front or at the back. Miura was the first to borrow from motor racing and put it in the middle. And so was born the production-ready mid-engined supercar. It launched just as Ferrari was getting ready to deliver a child of its own, the furiously fast but conventional-looking frontengined V12 Daytona. Miura’s blaze dimmed Daytona’s spotlight and it took years to grow a faithful following. But grow it did, and today few classic Ferraris garner the kind of praise – and prices –that a Daytona does. Never a marque to waste an opportunity, Ferrari has noted Daytona’s recent kudos trajectory and decided to make hay; cue the slightly awkwardly named 12 Cilindri (‘dohdechi chillindri’), the company’s latest grand tourer, with not a little Daytona magic in the mix. As the nomenclature suggests,

Ferrari’s arresting 12 Cilindri, clearly channelling its inner Daytona. As the name suggests, it features Ferrari’s iconic 12-cylinder powerplant as well as a dose of nostalgia.

THE PRETTY TRAP

Should manufacturers reinvent the icons of their past? It’s a tricky strategy as Mercedes-Benz, Lancia and Ferrari may soon find out.

it features the marque’s legendary 12-cylinder petrol engine, something of a surprise given Europe’s steady march towards electric. Visually there’s an obvious link to the past – Daytona’s trademark long bonnet and substantial front overhang are there, as is the swooping waistline and covered headlights.

But if the exterior is yesteryear inspired, inside and under the skin it’s all 2024. All-wheel steering is a feature, and while there are no turbochargers or electric motors to force progress, spaceage composite materials mean the power unit is a cutting-edge piece of artistry. Tomorrow predominates inside too; Daytona’s trademark leather pews have given way to part polyester Alcantara (for lightness and sustainability), and screens predominate, giant ones. Indeed, the last of the great holdouts has embraced

WORDS PETER FROST

a digital future. Past and present, living happily side by side. Forza Italia indeed.

LANCIA AURELIA

Even in the pantheon of iconic cars, Lancia’s 1950’s Aurelia stands out. Not only is it one of the most beautiful cars ever made (designed by Felice Boano of Karmann Ghia fame), it also heralded the advent of a number of pioneering technologies, including the first production V6 engine. It swept the board at rallies across Europe, including Monte Carlo, piloted by the legendary Louis Chiron. It was feted for its exceptional handling and rapidly became the chosen car of the post-Mussolini La Dolce Vita jet-set crowd, cruising down to Fregene, celebrating a new age of wealth and opportunity.

The 2026 model has a lot to live up to then. It will be very different. Like that other Italian icon, the Fiat 500, it will be fully electric, a flagship of new Lancia, a company now under the giant Stellantis umbrella, which includes the equally historic Alfa Romeo marque, a close rival.

It will join Lancia’s first new-era car, the recently launched city runabout Ypsilon, and be based on the new Stellantis platform that also supports the upcoming Peugeot e-3008.

First reveals of the svelte SUV crossover are encouraging, although it appears to have more in common with its sister Alfa Romeo Stelvio than the original Aurelia. To assuage purist concerns, Lancia has reassured it will be radically design-forward, promising that the firm’s latest Pu+Ra design language (Pure and Radical) will drive all thinking.

The Aurelia was the darling of the 1950s, stylish and innovative in equal measure. Lancia’s contemporary plans leverage both aspects – new Aurelia will be electric and fashionforward beautiful.

MERCEDES G580 WITH EQ TECHNOLOGY

As Lancia is Italy’s beloved motoring icon of yore, so the Geländewagen is Germany’s schärfster krieger, its fiercest warrior, as passionately defended as spätzle and the unrestricted autobahn. The iconic Mercedes-Benz was launched in 1979 in Toulon and was meant to compete with the LandRover Defender. It went on to become the de facto off-road workhorse of the German army as well as the rapidly growing European Union. Basic, simple, tough as nails, Mercedes-Benz engineers rebuffed various attempts to make it more sophisticated. The engineers lost that battle, ultimately, when the marketers reinvented it as the G-Class, more Range Rover than Defender. It’s underpinnings remained heavy duty but the luxurious detailing ramped up. The combination worked; today the

The humble Geländewagen has come a long way in 45 years, from military runabout to G-Class darling of the weekend adventure army. It remains to be seen whether the new electric version, the G580, excites or alarms.

THE G-CLASS – SPECIFICALLY THE AMG G63 –IS THE DARLING OF THE CHELSEA/BROOKLYN/ MONTMARTRE SET, IN LOVE WITH ITS HISTORY AS MUCH AS THE SQUARE-JAW OPTICS.

G-Class, specifically the AMG G63, is the darling of the Chelsea/ Brooklyn/Montmartre set, in love with its history as much as the square-jaw optics. And now Mercedes-Benz has gone one step further. G-Class has been electrified, the G580 with EQ Technology about as far from a Geländewagen as it’s possible to be. And it works. Four electric motors, one for each wheel, and a massive battery pack (from the EQS) make it a superb off-roader, even if the square proportions kill aerodynamics, significantly reducing range. It’s iconic but current, mad but sensible, weird but wonderful. Will it sell? Will it ever...

CREATION OF HEAVEN ON EARTH

In one of the most southerly wine-producing areas in the world, Creation has within two decades emerged as Africa’s best wine farm and is leading the charge to protect one of humanity’s oldest industries.

THERE’S A BATTLE RAGING in the blissful, bucolic Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Don’t expect war cries or gunfire, though. It’s not that kind of war. More like a peaceful campaign to bring folks to their senses.

Leading the charge is Carolyn Martin, co-owner of Creation Wines, which she and her Swiss-born husband, winemaker Jean-Claude, established in 2002.

The enemy is what Carolyn describes as a neo-prohibitionist movement that, from certain quarters, has been calling for a blanket ban on alcohol. Carolyn believes the movement is possibly a threat to the ancient art of winemaking.

While Jean-Claude (JC) is letting nature do all the heavy lifting in this battle, Carolyn is determined to show the world that wine can be part of a healthy lifestyle, which is why she has become such a keen standard-bearer for the cause of fine wine.

‘It’s really about context, so enjoying quality wines need not conflict with wellness, nor with longevity,’ says Carolyn, who comes from a multigenerational winemaking family. In 1980, her uncle, Peter Finlayson, set up Bouchard Finlayson, the first winery in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. In 2002, it was Peter who showed JC a 40-hectare sheep farm in the faraway Hemel-enAarde Ridge and convinced him to buy it.

WORDS KEITH BAIN

Scenically, the entire Hemel-en-Aarde wine route, which stretches along the R320 between Hermanus and Caledon, is magnificent. Drive through for a tasting and you feel you’ve arrived in proper countryside. Bulging with winemaking awards and some of the country’s best- and least-known wine farms, it’s dominated by family-run operations committed to working with nature rather than aggressively taming it, thus keeping biodiversity strongly intact.

Some say the land itself is magic. The soil comprises 450-million-year-old Bokkeveld shale and drained clay loam. For many winegrowers, it’s the proximity of this fertile ground

LEFT At Creation’s tasting room, guests are invited to enjoy an immersive wine-pairing experience that carefully – and arfully – combines the best from the vineyard with fare that is both nourishing and delicious.

ABOVE Creation’s limited-edition Reserve Chardonnay, a single-vineyard wine embodying vibrant grapefruit and fragrant apple with a hint of honey and cinnamon.

to the cold Atlantic that creates the real alchemy. A system of circulating breezes acts as natural air-conditioning that ensures precisely the right cool-climate conditions for its Burgundian varietals to grow successfully.

It’s why Hemel-en-Aarde has a reputation for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. ‘During the growing months, there’s a halfdegree difference between temperatures here and in Burgundy,’ Carolyn says. ‘There’s something magical about this terroir for that cultivar.’

JC is besotted with the location. ‘No matter what you do in this business, the grapes will always contribute at least 80 or 90 percent plus to the quality of the end product. So location is everything and if you have the opportunity to start a farm anywhere in the world, you should opt for a place that will provide optimal grapes.’

JC began with absolutely nothing. In 2002, there wasn’t even a feasible road. But it ticked many other boxes. In just over 20 years, the land has gone from difficult-to-access sheep farm, to what the World’s Best Vineyards has crowned the best wine farm in Africa, and fourth best in the world.

JC’s philosophy is centred on allowing nature to express itself through the wine. He worked his first European harvests as a teenager, and made his first wines in a garage – impressive enough to earn him a winemaking position at Domaine Grillette in Neuchâtel. He continues to work the old-fashioned way, pruning and harvesting by hand, keeping machines out of the vineyards. He says it’s a shame to grow beautiful, top-quality grapes but then see them bruised and damaged by machine harvesters.

At the same time, he is also ruthlessly hands-off. If it’s a particularly warm year, he says, that should be expressed in the vintage. He adds nothing that would homogenise or otherwise

RIGHT Co-founders and owners of Creation, Jean-Claude and Carolyn Martin.

OPPOSITE It’s difficult to imagine today, but when the Martins bought the farm they christened Creation, it was a barely-accessible sheep farm in the furthermost reaches of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley known as the Ridge.

BELOW Food at Creation has health and sustainability in mind: apart from honest, careful, local sourcing of ingredients, menus are designed according to Ayurvedic principles and recipes are vetted by integrated wellness experts.

‘SPREAD ACROSS YOUR TABLE THERE MIGHT BE SHELLS, CHUNKS OF ANCIENT ROCK, AND PERHAPS A FABRIC POUCH.’

alter the wine’s character. He uses wild yeast on the ferments, doesn’t use any fining agents and avoids filtering red wines. ‘No enzymes are added, no tannins, absolutely nothing that can be added from the whole catalogue of additives that are now standard in winemaking.’

What he has done, however, is exercise his freedom to plant adventurously. Apart from the two Burgundian cultivars, he’s successfully experimented with other varietals. Since the valley benefits from being warmer for a bit longer than other coolclimate regions, he planted the first Grenache vineyard in the area and was the first to bottle a single-variety Viognier. He also grows Syrah and has created a Bordeaux-style white blend using Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.

Creation makes about 19 different wines, including a Reserve range produced from grapes in single-site vineyards.

‘We’re super-fortunate because wine fashion has evolved over the last 15-or-so years,’ he says. ‘The trend is for elegant

wines, with good acidity, lighter in style, not too much alcohol. And that’s precisely what this place has on offer. We make elegant wines, not too heavy, not too alcoholic. It’s what’s possible in a place with cooler growing conditions.’

The other great advantage is a kind of reprieve from rapidly mounting anxiety over climate change. ‘Right now, in this pocket, we’re seeing far less hectic climate impacts than in many other places. The ocean essentially balances out these climactic ups and downs. As long as the ocean stays reasonably cold, we don’t really get the full exposure of climate change. Which is a really incredible opportunity.’

It’s not just the weather, there’s an element in the tension between the ancientness of the geology and the youthfulness of the creative spirit that has been identified as the ‘special something’ that defines the terroir of the Hemel-en-Aarde.

At the tasting room restaurant, Carolyn has found a way of representing this. When you look out, you see the ancient mountains, and the display of eight different kinds of soil on the farm. These elements are balanced by fresh, groundbreaking wines, a smart menu that taps into innovative ideas about food and wellness, and staff who embody youthful energy.

Lunch is a lot more than several courses paired with JC’s elegant wines. Spread across your table there might be shells, chunks of ancient rock, and perhaps a fabric pouch. There are vials of natural fragrances, too, used to demonstrate how the perfume of a wine alters its taste. The entire meal can get quite touchy-feely, a kind of sensory immersion.

Each course is formulated with wellness in mind while hitting the right notes in terms of the wines it accompanies. Your Sauvignon Blanc might be paired with watercress and parsnip soup, with a dash of cumin oil. The idea, Carolyn says, is to warm your body and protect your digestive lining, so it keeps your blood-sugar level low and your energy level high.

Creation’s Viognier, with its delicate freshness and white jasmine on the nose, might be paired with silken agedashi tofu. And there’s an ‘Oh so umami’ course, just before dessert, comprising bone marrow with broth, capers, lemon and small squares of toasted seed loaf. It’s served with Creation’s Syrah Grenache blend – a full, hearty experience.

Unlike so many longwinded tasting menus, there’s nothing overwhelming or exhausting about this one. It’s all about

nourishment and fine flavours rather than fanfare. The menus Carolyn and her team have developed are based on Ayurvedic principles – there’s also no gluten, no dairy and practically no sugar. Creation’s head chefs have not only done stints in Michelin-star restaurants in Europe, but have also worked with integrated health experts.

This, too, is part of Carolyn’s campaign to showcase the healing benefits of quality food alongside nature-nurtured wines. As a young girl growing up on wine farms, one of her chores was to cook for the vineyard team. Her grandmother, who taught her about food, insisted that they prepare nourishing meals for all the staff. That was at a time when the notorious dop system was still in full swing in South Africa, and so Carolyn witnessed first-hand the dangers of alcohol abuse and how cheap wine negatively skewed perceptions of humanity’s relationship with viticulture.

Which is why she crusades for the cause of fine wine, something she believes can be part of a healthy lifestyle.

‘We need to secure the future of fine wine, not only in South Africa, but around the world,’ she says. ‘What’s important is how we nurture the land, what we do to look after the environment, how we treat and uplift our people, contribute to the economy in meaningful ways, and inspire hope.

‘There are good reasons why wines have been part of human culture for 8 000 years,’ she says.

And if Carolyn and JC have their way, winemaking will be with us for the next 8 000 at least. 

ALL THE WORLD’S A

STAGE

With the coveted title of Restaurant Of The Year (Eat Out Awards) and recently securing a spot in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, La Colombe’s executive chef, James Gaag, is getting the international recognition he deserves.

UNDER CHEF JAMES GAAG’S leadership, La Colombe

has garnered a number of accolades, including World’s 50 Best (49th), Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant of the Year, Trip Advisor’s Best Fine Dining Restaurants in the World (17th), Trip Advisor’s Best Fine Dining Restaurant in Africa, and JHP Gourmet Guide’s 3 Plates (Highest Accolade).

But it’s been James Gaag’s involvement in recent culinary experiences that highlights his standing as a chef on the world stage.

In March, he was invited to be guest chef at the twoMichelin-starred restaurant Ikarus, in Salzburg, Austria. The unique concept sees a new chef take the helm for a month, offering a menu that is a replica of what they would prepare in their own restaurant.

Next, James collaborated with Adam Handling MBE of Michelin-starred restaurant Frog in London to first present a dinner at La Colombe in April and then at Frog in June.

Despite the international spotlight currently shining on James, he remains humble and modest, at times seemingly surprised at finding himself in the illustrious company of Michelin-starred chefs.

Growing up in kitchens around food, James’s passion for cooking developed from a young age. His mother, Gaie Gaag, is a cooking, sugar-craft and confectionary teacher at Silwood Kitchen, the esteemed culinary school in Cape Town. It was here where James was exposed not only to food and cooking professionally, but also to the South African culinary industry.

Unsure of what he wanted to do after completing high school, James enrolled at Silwood Kitchen, and from day one fell in love with cooking. He has never looked back.

While studying, James worked part-time in a café to put himself through cooking school, where he graduated

OPPOSITE Chef James Gaag has been globally recognised for his achievements at La Colombe, spending a month at the Michelin-starred Ikarus in Salzburg, Austria, and collaborating with Michelin-starred chef Adam Handling CBE in Cape Town and London.

THIS PAGE The petit four course comprises three plates of delicious sweets made from Silvermist Estate’s own honey.

ABOVE Tuna La Colombe is probably the restaurant’s most famous and most enduring dish. While its components change, the concept remains the same, and it’s paired with a fun blind wine-tasting.

OPPOSITE James has a personal passion for woodcraft. While he doesn’t fashion the pieces used at La Colombe himself, he is intimately involved with the design process to best showcase the food.

top of his class and was subsequently appointed as an ambassador for Silwood Kitchen.

He was offered a position in the kitchen of legendary chef Raymond Blanc’s Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxford. He spent a year in the renowned kitchen, before returning to South Africa in 2014, where he joined La Colombe as head chef. Since then, his career has grown from strength to strength.

THE RESIDENCY

James says he was completely bowled over when he received the invitation for the residency at Ikarus. He says that to be included among a list of the world’s most renowned chefs was an honour and, of course, a bit daunting. In terms of cooking style and plating, the task was to create exactly the same as back home. Apart from certain items having to change from a supply point of view,

James is confident they created a very similar experience for diners as to the one they’d have at La Colombe.

When he travelled to Salzburg, Austria, James took with him not only his team, but also the components for La Colombe’s iconic dish, The Dove’s Nest, the first course of every meal at La Colombe. It’s a delicate little drink, sipped through a straw from an eggshell, to wake up the palate.

‘We foraged herbs, shrubs and proteas to recreate the nest. I spent three or four days in the development kitchen making them. One suitcase was just nests. We had the ceramic eggshells made, the mushrooms with turned wooden caps, tuna labels, envelopes for the nests,’ says James. ‘We took as much as we could to make it as authentic as possible. Our décor and presentation style is unique to us and it’s what makes us special.’

He remains mystified but undoubtedly proud as to how he was selected for Ikarus, an arena for the very best of the best, but is delighted he was. He says he hopes he shone some light on the food scene in Cape Town and maybe sparked the interest of more international foodies to put South Africa and Africa on the map.

THE COLLABORATION

Working alongside Adam Handling from Frog came about after Adam dined at La Colombe last year.

‘Adam and his restaurant director, George Hersey, came for dinner and booked under George’s name,’ recalls James. ‘A couple of days later, he sent me his book and a DM on Instagram saying,

‘OUR DÉCOR AND PRESENTATION STYLE IS UNIQUE TO US AND IT’S WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL.’

‘Our styles are similar, would you be open to a four-hands dinner?’” James says.

‘We’d never really had the idea of doing a collab; we trust in what we’re doing and want to put effort into it. It’s fun but it takes a lot of energy from your day-to-day in the restaurant but once it’s happening and it’s underway, then it’s really worthwhile.’

When Adam visited South Africa for the first time in September 2023, he says he ‘absolutely fell in love with the place, the people and the culture’.

‘The food and drink scene is incredible and there really is no more stunning setting than La Colombe! James is a phenomenal chef and there are some real synergies with our experience-led offerings, so it felt like a natural opportunity for a four-hands dinner, to really have some fun and showcase British food in South Africa and the reverse when James comes to visit Frog.’

James agrees, saying it’s ‘super inspiring’ to see a different chef come in with different ideas, a different mentality. ‘Adam’s got a strong identity with sustainability. What he can’t use in one restaurant goes to another, or even turned into alcohol for the bar.’

Adam says the highlight of the dinner at La Colombe was to be able to showcase British food but in the most sustainable fashion. The 12-course menu created by both chefs and their teams, saw Adam bringing ingredients like Scottish lobster and Cornish cod to the South African table, and his own-label caviar. ‘These ingredients are in abundance back in the UK but are extremely

ABOVE James is the only chef from Africa to be invited to Ikarus this year. ‘The main focus was on showcasing our food as best we could and to show the world Africa is right up there, has an amazing food scene, and can hold its own globally,’ he says.

ABOVE LEFT The dining experience at La Colombe begins with The Dove’s Nest, another signature element of the menu. It’s accompanied by a handwritten note from James.

hard to get hold of in South Africa, so it was great to see the guests’ reactions to some of the ingredients which I love to work with,’ James says.

While Ikarus was all about recreating every tiny detail of La Colombe’s menu and experience over an entire month as accurately as possible, the dinner at Frog – like the one at La Colombe – showcased ingredients, presentation and skills in harmony with each other.

La Colombe is at the top of the game when it comes to imaginative presentation. Before becoming a chef, James wanted to study engineering, and work with his hands (he still does woodwork in his own time). ‘Food is as much of a creative release – maybe even more so – as you’re using your hands to build things and trying to understand how they work. It’s the same principle applied differently.’

And that’s just part of why La Colombe is the best in South Africa. 

DEPARTURES

Dubai at sunrise. The austere beauty of the desert a foreground to the city’s skyline, with the elegant Burj Khalifa taking centre stage.

Dubai’s luxurious retreats offer sanctuary for travellers seeking a space for repose and rejuvenation.

HAVENS OF CALM

WORDS JULIA FREEMANTLE

THIS PAGE Understated English elegance, French sophistication and seamless service merge to create a calming and quiet sense of luxury at The Lana.
OPPOSITE PAGE Leisure areas (bars, restaurants and the spa) are interspersed across the 31 floors, culminating in a rooftop deck, with panoramic views and a spectacular rimflow pool.

ACROP OF NEW LUXURY HOTELS in Dubai is acknowledging the need for havens of calm and comfort above the urban landscape. Taking the form of self-contained leisure destinations that cater to the discerning guest, they serve as oases, offering respite from the heat and activity of this expanding metropolis; places where you can relax, recover and luxuriate.

DESERT ROSE

The newest addition to the Dorchester Collection, The Lana, brings an English gentility and French polish to Dubai’s Business Bay. The elegant Foster + Partners-designed hotel on the edge of the Marasi Bay Marina – a prime location with easy access to Downtown Dubai, D3 (Dubai Design District), the Dubai International Financial Centre and the Burj Khalifa – spans 31 floors and takes inspiration from Dubai’s evolving skyline.

The rooms, too, celebrate the cityscape, each with a different orientation (the expansive duplex layouts getting the most of the sweeping views). Perfectly described as ‘quiet luxury’ by the hotel’s general manager, Richard Alexander, The Lana’s name also alludes to its overall ethos: one meaning is to ‘gently float in calm water’, and its Arabic translation alludes to a ‘warm sense of belonging’.

This is certainly the case. While unquestionably luxe, the hotel is immensely welcoming, with a focus on seamless but discreet service, embodied by a personable staff for whom nothing is

too much to ask. Richard reiterates this: ‘The Lana has a very residential feel to it, and we want our guests to feel that this is a “home away from home” in Dubai.’

Interiors by French studio Gilles & Boissier express this notion of livable luxury through an understated and comfortable design. A palette of muted pinks and beiges is grounded by accents of black and elevated by touches of gold in spaces that foreground texture and detail, drawing on the cultural influence of the UAE.

Allusions to the brand’s European connections can also be seen throughout: the profusion of fresh flowers (a Dorchester signature) and English touches like afternoon tea and the Rolls-Royce fleet. Specially commissioned art installations and exquisite French pastry extend the journey of sophistication that runs throughout. One certainly finds it at Dior Spa The Lana on the 30th floor – a glowing haven for sensory indulgence with its cutting-edge design and wellness offering.

Steered by a team of 130 and led by executive chef Oliver Jackson, dining options include the superb Jara by Martín Berasategui, where the multi-Michelin-star chef takes Basque cuisine up a notch, Riviera by Jean Imbert offering breezy modern Mediterranean, and Bonbon Café, a ground-floor patisserie with acclaimed Angelo Musa at the helm. Other venues include the compact but extremely chic Bitter Honey (cocktails courtesy of a nifty bar cart) and Txakolina, a tucked-away cigar lounge, as well as a rooftop pool bar aptly named High Society. dorchestercollection.com

ESCAPE ARTISTRY

Soaring above the city in the gravity-defying Nikken Sekkeidesigned One Za’abeel, One&Only’s latest Dubai venue is an indulgent outpost of leisure that negates the need to ever leave. Comprising a set of towers with a cantilevered connecting ‘link’, the city’s first ‘vertical resort’ contains a leisure universe behind its mirrored façade spanning, but not limited to, a three-level spa and no fewer than 11 restaurants.

The intention here is deeply experiential – with focus placed on the culinary arts and cultural integration. With six Michelin-

rated chefs, the resort will surely establish itself as a destination for fine dining. A wide array of experiences extends this immersive approach, taking guests further into the culinary and wellness world contained within. Workshops range from mixology and coffee culture to expert-led wine tastings that enrich and engage, while the Montroi Perfume Workshop guides guests through the process of creating a bespoke fragrance.

Spread over three floors, the Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie comprises 29 treatment rooms for wellbeing and clinical therapies, a Movement Studio with a state-of-the-art gym, a

DEPARTURES

Longevity Bar and the first Longevity Index lounge in the region, allowing for ultrapersonalised protocols. Contextually led architecture and interiors draw on the hotel’s location while alluding to the wider desert setting in a contemporary design that celebrates the landscape (both natural and urban). Its entrance – an organic roof resembling undulating desert dunes – and tranquil interiors feature a serene combination of biscuit tones and cool blues, with local motifs in the form of geometric patterns interwoven throughout. oneandonlyresorts.com

OPPOSITE PAGE One&Only One Za’abeel is a leisure destination in its own right – and Dubai’s first ‘vertical resort’ – housed in the equally impressive Nikken Sekkei design.

ABOVE Muted but layered interiors inspired by the urban and desert landscape speak to a modern and discerning traveller.

SEEKING SANCTUARY

A hotel focused on recovery makes perfect sense in a city as fastpaced as Dubai, and for the millions of people passing through, a space that offers a much-needed rest stop seems like a no brainer.

Kerzner International spotted this niche – and need – and SIRO was born. A brand that centres on fitness and recovery and offers travellers all the amenities and support they need to optimise their physical and mental wellness while in transit.

Innovation underpins it all – from the room design to the programming – with cutting-edge technology merging with tailored expertise to offer personalised wellness. Five core pillars – nutrition, fitness, sleep, recovery and mindfulness – inform the spaces and facilities. An expansive state-of-the-art Fitness Lab with a comprehensive class roster is complemented by a team of in-house experts, and the dedicated Recovery Lab includes everything from a yoga studio (offering meditation, breathwork, and sound healing) to specialised therapy rooms for all manner of cutting-edge and holistic treatments. Separate male- and female-only areas include infrared saunas, steam rooms, thermo-regulated cold plunge pools and relaxation zones. High-tech features are integrated into the suites too for optimal comfort and convenience – couched in a cocooning

At SIRO, travellers will find state-of the-art technology merged with uncluttered, restorative spaces, all designed around recovery and wellness.

and uncluttered design. Motorised blackout blinds, ergonomic furniture, thermo-regulating mattresses and an in-room recovery cabinet (stocked with exercise essentials) are just some of the features that make a stay seamlessly restorative. The specialised Fitness Suites and Recovery Suites take this a step further: Recovery Suites include a bathtub and a therapy bed for inroom treatments, while Fitness Suites feature a private mini gym. Naturally, nutrition is a key component of wellness. At SIRO, guests can consult with the in-house nutritionist to develop tailored meal plans and for one-on-one advice sessions, while the Refuel Bar (grab-and-go options) and 24-hour in-room modular dining allow you to access healthy meals at any time.  sirohotels.com

BEDFORDVIEW, JOHANNESBURG

Asking: R6.3 million | 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 4 Garages

Luxurious 4-Bedroom Residence in high security Upper Bedfordview, set in a lovely garden. 4-bedroom residence that effortlessly blends modern living with elegance. This home offers a harmonious combination of style, comfort, and functionality. Flowing into the reception areas, is an open-plan kitchen. Entertainment is a breeze from all the open-plan entertainment areas, which flow onto the tiled patio complemented by an integrated braai, prep bowl, pool and Jacuzzi. Ingrid: 082 490 6246; Web Ref: 6424606.

MORNINGSIDE, SANDTON

Asking: R17.950 million | 6 Bedrooms | 6.5 Bathrooms | 4 Garages

Luxurious architectural masterpiece on millionaires row. This custom-built residence is designed with only the finest fixtures and finishes, crafted for those who appreciate the finer things in life.The property features spacious living areas, state-of-the-art kitchen, sumptuous bedrooms, and luxurious bathrooms, all designed to provide the ultimate in comfort and sophistication. Every corner of this home is adorned with the finest materials and craftsmanship, from custom cabinetry and imported tiles to bespoke lighting and high-end appliances. 5 North facing luxurious and spacious bedrooms en-suite. 24/7 Security. Solar. Invertor. Marc: 082 854 7272; Alan: 082 490 0940; Web Ref: 6499225.

BRYANSTON, SANDTON

Asking: R25 million | 5 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | 4 Garages

Panoramic views – On millionaire’s row. Luxurious home with enormous gracious reception rooms onto enclosed patio to landscaped garden – pool with enclosed poolroom – borehole – boma – stunning gourmet dine-in kitchen with best appliances – a marble staircase to 4 double lux bedroom suites with views, lux guest room downstairs – upstairs family room – gentleman’s fitted study – gym – double staff acc – fitted cellar with tasting room – home movie theatre – walk-in cold room – generator & solar – 4 garages. So much more that is a must to view. Top security. Manuela: 082 552 7119; Web Ref: 6530941.

HOUGHTON ESTATE, JOHANNESBURG

Asking: R9.999 million | 5 Bedrooms | 5.5 Bathrooms | 4 Garages

Private in a complex of 3, excellent position.Double-volume entrance, beautiful flow of receptions. Living rooms lead onto undercover outdoor entertainment. Superb formal lounge and dining room with atrium, Bright and Airy family/ TV room, Renovated Island kitchen and breakfast room, separate scullery, and laundry. Guest bedroom downstairs. 4 Glorious bedrooms upstairs, MES with lavish walk-in dressing room. Study. Heated pool set in a beautiful, lowmaintenance garden. North facing, state-of-the-art security, 4 garages, offstreet parking. Low levies. Sabina: 083 254 6981; Kobus: 083 632 2626; Web Ref: 6393608.

RIVER CLUB, SANDTON

Offers from: R11.9 million | 4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms | 4 Garages

One of the area’s finest properties. Generous double-height spaces, combined with floor to ceiling windows ensuring views are enjoyed throughout. The emphasis is placed on smooth indoor/outdoor living from every room in the home and in true contemporary style it brings the outdoors in. All bedrooms are en-suite and flow to a private outside garden. State of the art security, including beams, cameras, electric fencing and 24-hour guard. Underfloor heating throughout, surround sound, borehole and automated sprinkler system and generator. Sue: 083 378 1101; Web Ref: 6411233.

DUNKELD, JOHANNESBURG

Offers from R7.9 million | 4 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

A beautiful classic Cape Dutch Heritage home. High ceilings; Wooden floors; Fireplaces; The bedroom wing comprises 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The extensive main en-suite consists of the bedroom, dressing room, nursery/ study/TV room and luxurious bathroom. A beautiful farm style kitchen. Some air conditioning; Entertainment patio; Spacious guest cottage; Outbuildings: Laundry, Storeroom, 3 bedrooms, Gardener’s cloakroom, bathroom. Pool; Irrigated garden; Double lock-up garage. Plenty of off street parking. Asking R8.2 million. Di 082 960 5353, Debbie 083 326 7739. Web Ref: 6572283.

CRAIGHALL PARK, JOHANNESBURG

Offers from R8.250 million | 5 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Open plan living inspiration for the modern family. Filled with bright natural light, a calming architect-designed style, and simple luxury on a manageable scale. Come together with family and friends to let the good times roll from the gorgeous and expansive indoor living rooms that connect freely to the generous undercover patio and barbeque area, flowing onto the perfectsized heated pool, sizeable garden, and lawn area. Basking in the perfect sun captured north-facing aspect. A fully fitted executive staff cottage. Topnotch security. GoSlr – Power Back-Up. Willem: 082 442 1497; Cornel: 082 468 8247; Web Ref: 6631666.

LINDEN EXT, RANDBURG

Asking: R3.5 million | 4 Bedrooms | 2.5 Bathrooms | Garage | Pool

Stunning 4-Bedroom Cluster with Garden Oasis – Discover your dream home! This elegant 4-bedroom cluster combines timeless charm with modern comforts. The open-plan kitchen, lounge, and dining area create an inviting living space, with a chef’s kitchen featuring a gas stove and separate scullery. Relax in the additional lounge with a cozy fireplace. Enjoy outdoor living on the covered patio with a gas braai, deck, pool with jacuzzi jets, and boma. Upstairs, spacious bedrooms and balconies offer garden views. Includes a double garage and staff room. Ronelle de Klerk: 072 566 7562; Benita Constable: 083 625 6479; Office: 011 476 8303; Web Ref: 6616053.

NORTHCLIFF, RANDBURG

Asking: R7 million | 4 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 4 Garages | Pool

Experience tranquil living in this luxurious lodge-style home in Northcliff. This property offers expansive open-plan reception areas with glass stacking doors that blend indoor and outdoor spaces, revealing a lush garden and heated pool. The stylish kitchen features a gas stove, center island, and cozy breakfast nook. Entertain in the dining room with a pizza oven and fireplace. Main bedroom is a true retreat with serene views. Enjoy an outdoor oasis with a built-in braai, boma, and serene thatch roof. Heloise Azar: 072 294 4901; Office: 011 476 8303; Web Ref: 6622326.

RANDPARK RIDGE, RANDBURG

Asking: R3.399 million | 6 Bedrooms | 5.5 Bathrooms | 2 Garages | Pool

Discover this expansive 6-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom home with two separate wings, ideal for extended families or work-from-home setups. Set on a 1220 sqm stand, this 550 sqm house features a double-volume lounge, sunny dining room, Cherry Wood kitchen, pool deck, and cozy patios. With excellent security, a double garage, staff accommodation, and modern amenities like fiber and a Jojo tank, this newly painted property is move-in ready. Located in a quiet culde-sac, close to top schools and amenities. Call for an exclusive viewing! Val Marais: 083 480 6340; Office: 011 476 8303; Web Ref: 6537900.

To view these properties visit www.sothebysrealty.co.za

NORTHCLIFF, RANDBURG

Asking: R19 million | 9 Bedrooms | 10 Bathrooms | 6 Garages | Pool

This luxurious 9 bedroom, 10 bathroom Georgian house in Northcliff offers unmatched living with complete privacy and security. Upstairs, find five en-suite bedrooms. Downstairs features an entrance hall, lounge/TV room, dining room with fireplace, study, home theatre, rosewood bar, gym with sauna, chef’s kitchen with granite island, pantry, scullery, and wine cellar. Enjoy the patio with built-in braai, pool with light features, and a bachelor cottage. Special features include fireplaces, air conditioning, skylights, a 25KVA generator, and state-of-the-art security. Heloise Azar: 072 294 4901; Office: 011 476 8303; Web Ref: 6602935.

BROOKLANDS ESTATE, NORTHCLIFF

Asking: R5.985 million | 4 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 3 Garages | Pool

Discover sophistication in this Northcliff home in a 24-hour guarded estate near all amenities. Boasts three open-plan living areas, with a Morso fireplace, and chef’s kitchen. Enjoy stunning views from the patio with glass stacking doors, overlooking the pool and garden. Upstairs, find pajama lounge or 4th bedroom, three bedrooms, two ensuite, including a luxurious master suite with a balcony and outdoor shower. Enhancements include a Sunsync inverter, solar geyser, aluminum windows, Breeze-air cooler, flatlet, and garden shed. Ria de Wet: 082 824 6925; Office: 011 476 8303; Web Ref: 6616873.

STEYN CITY, JOHANNESBURG

Asking: R29 million | 6 Bedrooms | 6.5 Bathrooms | 6 Garages

Welcome to Steyn City, a haven of modern luxury spanning 948 square meters. This gated residence features top-notch finishes, an open-plan layout, and high-end amenities, including a gym and movie theatre. The property boasts stunning landscapes, a rooftop with city views, and smart home technology. With six spacious bedrooms and bathrooms, gas heating, and central air, comfort is guaranteed. Residents enjoy access to a lagoon, paddle courts, dining, and coffee spots. This home offers an unmatched blend of style and sophistication. Mo Jacobs: 073 708 4570; Yaqshaan Sukdev: 068 333 3984; Office: 010 823 2205; Web Ref: SIR 110725.

BEL’AIRE ESTATE, SOMERSET WEST

Asking: R8.895 million | 6 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Discover unparalleled luxury at Belair Security Estate with this exclusive, threelevel residence. Embrace classic elegance and modern convenience in a home designed for both comfort and style. Enjoy five expansive living areas, dual kitchens for multi-generational living, and two studies perfect for remote work. Step outside to a balcony or large patio for breathtaking views or relax by the pool surrounded by lush gardens. With a flat for additional accommodation or rental income, this property offers versatility and endless opportunities. Experience the pinnacle of refined living where every detail is tailored for a superior lifestyle. Chantal Botes: 083 702 5460; Office: 021 851 4450; Web Ref: SIR119830.

CONSTANTIA KLOOF, ROODEPOORT

Asking: R7.5 million | 4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms | 4.5 Garages

This exquisite modern home, nestled in the secure, boomed area of Constantia Kloof, epitomizes luxury and sophistication. With breathtaking panoramic views, it features a seamless blend of elegance and contemporary design. The residence offers four generously sized bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, including a main suite with a pyjama lounge, private balcony, and his-and-hers wardrobes. Enjoy a new gourmet kitchen with bespoke SMEG appliances. Additional highlights include a private study, 4.5 automated garages, a walk-in safe, advanced security systems, and eco-friendly features like solar panels. An outdoor oasis with a pool, patios, and boma complements the home’s opulence. Heidi Goodburn: 083 633 3467; Office: 010 9003450; Web Ref: SIR111939.

KWAAIWATER, HERMANUS, WESTERN CAPE

Asking: R29 million | Five en-suite bedrooms and double garage

Nestled in the prestigious enclave of Kwaaiwater in Hermanus, this luxurious property epitomizes coastal elegance. With five opulent en-suite bedrooms, expansive living areas, double garage, and pristine pool, it exudes space and comfort. Equipped with an inverter system for sustainable energy. Spectacular 180-degree ocean views overlooking the cliff path, residents can indulge in the display of whales gliding through the ocean from the privacy of their own balcony. This is coastal living at its most exclusive and captivating. Ilse van der Westhuizen: 082 3749734; Office: 028 312 4970; Web Ref: SIR6357111.

Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty – Fourways is an independently owned and operated franchise business of Goldprop Realty (Pty)Ltd Reg#2020/462864/07under

UPPER CONSTANTIA, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R25.9 million | 5 Bedrooms | 5.5 Bathrooms | 3 Garages

At the end of a country cul-de-sac, is a residence of distinction with grand proportions & high ceilings set on a sunny, North facing acre built for those that appreciate fine living! The expansive & beautiful mountain views are enjoyed from the generous living and entertainment areas that open to the landscaped garden, covered patios and heated pool. Both formal and casual reception rooms with a double volume entrance hall and entertainment area which leads to the covered patio and garden. An impressive staircase rises to the private wing with a fitted study and the en-suite bedrooms. View to appreciate the finishes and the ambience of this special property! Rouvaun McKirby: 071 671 0821; Jo Thomas: 084 404 4120; Web Ref: SIR 5136692.

SILWERSTEEN ESTATE, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R15.8 million | 4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Exceptional Views – Across the Constantia Valley, North to Table Mountain. Escape into a realm of refined living at Silwersteen Estate, where the allure of panoramic vistas is rivalled only by the sheer opulence of this extraordinary residence. Set against a backdrop of rolling mountains and verdant vineyards. Step into a world of seamless integration as the open-plan design effortlessly blends space and serenity. Steve Thomas: 084 471 4722; Dave Burger: 083 458 3333; Office: 021 701 2446; Web Ref: SIR109575. Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty – Southern Suburbs is an independently owned and operated franchise business of

visit www.sothebysrealty.co.za

UPPER CONSTANTIA, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R25.995 million | 7 Bedrooms | 7.5 Bathrooms | 3 Garages

This lovely family home is warm and inviting with lovely views plus a landscaped garden & a tennis court. This is an ideal property for the extended family as there are many sections to this property. The home offers flexible living. The main house has 4 large en-suite bedrooms upstairs with a separate en-suite bedroom downstairs ideal for guests. Plus a stunning 2 bedroom cottage with own lounge & kitchenette. In addition to the cottage there is a large upstairs apartment currently used as staff quarters. The main home has excellent security, excellent proportions throughout the living rooms and bedrooms. The kitchen is so well equipped even a ‘master chef’ would be happy! Rouvaun McKirby: 071 671 0821; Jo Thomas: 084 404 4120; Web Ref: SIR110639.

ZWAANSWYK, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R10.950 million | 2 Bedrooms | 2.5 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

As you approach this home, the charm of this intimate estate becomes immediately evident. The home greets you with an open-plan living area, a space designed to foster a sense of togetherness. A cosy fireplace anchors the room, inviting you to gather with loved ones on cooler evenings. The living area flows seamlessly onto a private garden, where you can picture tranquil mornings or lively gatherings, all set against a backdrop of stunning mountain views. Steve Thomas: 084 471 4722; Dave Burger: 083 458 3333; Office: 021 701 2446; Web Ref: SIR 109602.

UPPER KENILWORTH, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R17.5 million | 4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Double Garage

Standing proud on 1,700 Sqm of exquisite garden, is this gorgeous period property in Upper Kenilworth. Recently renovated, this wonderful family home offers everything a young family could want comprising of 4 large bedrooms with two bathrooms. High-end finishes are evident throughout the house and it is in immaculate move-in condition. Features include: Large Pool; Borehole; Double Garage; Double carport and secure parking for 8 cars; Established garden with mature Trees; Koi Pond; Fire pit; Staff accommodation; Excellent security; Large Inverter. Elaine Dobson: 082 413 7369; Ruth Leach: 082 323 7550; Office: 021 701 2446; Web Ref: SIR106965.

NEWLANDS, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R15.950 million | 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Double Garage

Step into luxury living with this fully renovated masterpiece boasting an immaculate living area and spectacular mountain views. Every detail of this home has been meticulously crafted to create a space that is both elegant and inviting. Entertain guests in style as you enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor living, with bedrooms leading out to the sparkling swimming pool area. With abundant natural light streaming through, the interior is bright and airy, creating a sense of tranquility and comfort. Jennifer Lee: 082 562 5139; Brigitte Bray: 072 784 7475; Office: 021 701 2446; Web Ref: MSH7MH.

CLAREMONT UPPER, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R9.5 million | 4 Beds | 3 Baths | 3 Parking’s | 4 Receptions | Study | Pool

Much-loved family home located in the sought-after Hen and Chicken estate, presenting a rare opportunity for buyers to acquire a unique property in a highly desirable area. The house retains its original floors, wood burning fireplaces and solid teak shutters, adding to its charm and appeal for those seeking an older home with character. This property is a not-to-be missed opportunity, combining the appeal of an older home with its original features, lovely mountain views and a desirable location in the Hen and Chicken estate. Barbara Manning: 083 407 3656; Office: 021 701 2446.

KOMMETJIE, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R19.5 million | 3 Bedrooms | 2.5 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Majestically positioned on the beachfront in Kommetjie, the sea and the setting translate into a luxurious experience. Situated in a gated close, this North-facing home offers direct access on to the beach and exudes the sound of beauty. This immaculate well-maintained home welcomes you in to enjoy the open plan lounge with fireplace which frames the phenomenal view of the Atlantic Ocean and Mountains. You are stepping into another world to relax, rejuvenate and restore, Kommetjie is a truly remarkable destination to own a piece of paradise. Natalie Cooper: 083 630 0911; Office: 021 783 8260; Web Ref: SIR111814.

VAL DE VIE ESTATE

Asking: R59 million | 6 Bedrooms | 8 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Welcome to your own piece of paradise, nestled within the heart of the highly secure and exclusive Val de Vie Estate. This remarkable property offers a harmonious blend of world class luxury and natural beauty, where architectural excellence meets the epitome of stylishly designed living. A breath taking signature lakeside double storey home presentation of style, beauty and views including a separate flatlet, a 15-meter rim flow pool perfect for both relaxation and entertaining with a picturesque backdrop. Suritha van Tonder: 084 440 4283; Kim Egdes: 072 562 4472; Office: 021 867 0161; Web Ref: SIR111143.

LA PETITE PROVENCE, FRANSCHHOEK

Asking: R12.950 million | 5 Bedrooms | 6 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Welcome to a Manor House in Franschhoek. In a cul-de-sac on a 1720 sqm plot within the secure estate of La Petite Provence of Franschhoek, you’ll find a tastefully restored Manor House, elegantly positioned on two titles. The Estate itself is beautifully maintained, featuring vineyards, 24-hour-manned security, a clubhouse, a pool, and a tennis court for residents’ use. Gary de Valle: 082 464 8038; Bev Malan: 082 901 6966; Moira Barham: 082 896 3597; Office: 021 876 8480; Web Ref: SIR112010. Lew Geffen Sotheby’s

PEARL VALLEY GOLF & COUNTRY ESTATE

Asking: R22.9 million | 4 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | 4 Garages

Located on the 7th fairway of the Pearl Valley Golf Course this contemporary, classic, and timeless designed home welcomes you through double doors into the foyer of this lovely home with full-length windows, capturing the beauty of the surrounding mountain ranges. The entrance creates an atmosphere of space and openness with plenty of natural light. Suritha van Tonder: 084 440 4283; Kim Egdes: 072 562 4472; Office: 021 867 0161; Web Ref: SIR109944.

FRANSCHHOEK

Asking: R9.750 million | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

This beautifully designed home, perfectly positioned in a quiet quaint part of the Franschhoek Village sits right across the road from a lovely open green-belt park. From the double door entrance looking back, this home offers spectacular views across a beautifully manicured front garden. The architecture both classic and timeless with travertine floors throughout. The inside spaces reflect the lifestyle of a modern family, allowing for both flexibility and privacy of space. Gary de Valle: 082 464 8038; Bev Malan: 082 901 6966; Moira Barham: 082 896 3597; Office: 021 876 8480; Web Ref: SIR112000.

COURTRAI, PAARL

Asking: R8.995 million | 5 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms

Perfectly tucked away in a quiet street of Courtrai Paarl is this unique, secure home. If you are dreaming of having a large private home in an almost hidden location then this is the property to view. This home is ideal for a large family, the extended family, working from home or for extra income. Miranda Coetzee: 083 414 7212; Adele de Almeida: 082 780 0067; Office: 021 870 1011; Web Ref: SIR109915.

Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty – Winelands is an independently owned and operated franchise business of Craggy Island Investments PTY Ltd 2016/303204/07 under sub licence from Geffen International Realty Franchises (Proprietary) Limited

WELLINGTON

Asking: R6.350 million | 6 Bedrooms | 6 Bathrooms | 1 Garages

Step into the timeless charm of this distinguished Victorian home, nestled in the heart of the old historic part of Wellington. Built in the early 1900s, this residence is a testament to classic design and enduring sophistication. The original Burmese teak doors, sash windows and shutters, tell the story of a rich past as you enter. Oregon pine floors and ceilings throughout the main house add a touch of heritage and craftsmanship. TC Kohler: 082 894 5231; Office: 021 873 0260; Web Ref: SIR108835.

BUITENVERWAGTING, PAARL

Asking: R16.5 million | 5 Bedrooms | 5.5 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Discover an exquisite opportunity to own a piece of paradise in the heart of Paarl, nestled against the majestic Paarl Mountain with breath taking views of Du Toits Kloof Pass. This stunning property spans three storeys, with the potential for a fourth, offering ample space and luxurious living for a large family or those who love to entertain. This property is ideally situated near world-class educational institutions like Paarl Boys High, La Rochelle High, Paarl Gymnasium Primary School, and Paarl Girls High. Reghardt Human: 071 554 5056; Office: 021 870 1011; Web Ref: SIR111871.

WELLINGTON FARM

Asking: R19.950 million

Lifestyle Estate with good revenue. Exceptional location 60 km from Cape Town Airport and 3 km from Wellington. Peaceful, rural area. Breathtaking views of the mountains and over the valley. Ideal Lifestyle Farm with good income, and hospitality opportunities. 28 ha produce – quality table grapes for local and export market. 11 Cultivars – value adding chain from production and packing to the consumer. 1 ha open land ready for replant. Daniel Hauptfleisch: 083 627 2148; Office: 021 873 0260; Web Ref: SIR104006.

VREDEHOEK, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R11.995 million | 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | 1 Garage | 516m2

Experience elegance and serenity in this modern masterpiece. Sip evening cocktails while enjoying breathtaking views from your sanctuary where design, nature, and luxury harmoniously converge. This stunning, contemporary home perched on a hillside features sleek, angular architecture that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Expansive walls of glass invite the outside in, while the minimalist interior, adorned with clean lines and thoughtful details, creates a serene living space. Act fast, this gem won’t last long. Paul Davis: 083 261 0335; Lisa Jardim: 064 640 5433;Office: 021 401 4338; Web Ref: SIR111821.

BLOUBERGSTRAND, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R12.950 million | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 3 Garages | 365 m2

Experience unmatched luxury in this exclusive Blouberg penthouse at Horizon Bay. Revel in panoramic views of Table Mountain, Robben Island, and Blouberg Beachfront. The master suite features an extensive dressing room and designer bathroom with a double shower and ocean-view bathtub. Two additional en suite bedrooms offer breathtaking views. Accessed by a private elevator, the top floor boasts a North-facing living space, fully-fitted kitchen, lounge, dining room, and an outdoor area with a rimflow pool. Includes centralized air-conditioning, utility room, three parking spaces, and a storeroom. Steve D’Hooghe: 082 654 9707; Office: 021 401 4338; Web Ref: SIR109947.

these properties visit www.sothebysrealty.co.za

HIGGOVALE, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R19.950 million | 4 Beds | 3.5 Baths | 4 Garages (8 Parkings) | 957 m2

Experience elevated living with unmatched views in Higgovale. This north-facing home, perched against Table Mountain, spans three levels and boasts stunning views of Cape Town’s landmarks. Enjoy a spacious, light-filled ambiance with double-volume ceilings and teak-framed windows. The top floor offers four bedrooms, including two en-suites. The middle floor features living areas, a farmstyle kitchen, dining room, study, and covered patio. Additional amenities include a potential flatlet, a saltwater pool, a double garage, and off-street parking. Luxury and functionality blend seamlessly in this remarkable home. Julie McIntyre: 084 962 7142; Dorian Bakos: 072 994 4134; Office: 021 401 4338; Web Ref: SIR111903.

CITY CENTRE, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R6.3 million | 2 Bedrooms | 2.5 Bathrooms | 1 Garage | 240 m2

Price is VAT Inclusive (No Transfer Duty). Experience sophisticated urban living in this art deco penthouse in Cape Town’s cultural hub. This 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom residence spans 204m², blending timeless charm with modern sophistication. Enjoy abundant natural light, intricate mouldings, and sleek lines. The spacious dining room flows into the lounge, perfect for entertaining. A state-of-the-art kitchen and sprawling wrap-around balcony with panoramic views add to the luxury. With direct elevator access and topnotch security, this penthouse offers the ultimate urban lifestyle. Schedule a viewing today. Ben Gross: 072 565 8920; Office: 021 401 4338; Web Ref: SIR110780.

PLETTENBERG BAY, GARDEN ROUTE

Asking: R13.5 million | 5 Bedrooms | 5 Ensuite Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Set in a desirable location in the ever-popular Brackenridge Estate. Spacious, private, designed for entertaining, with beautiful valley and sea views; open plan dining room, lounge and kitchen with separate scullery, guest toilet, additional lounge upstairs, study, covered patio with built-in braai, wrap-around patio with swimming pool, double garage and manicured garden. Brackenridge is a 128ha private nature reserve with walking trails through the abundant fynbos, and state-of-the-art security including strict access control, patrols, and highly sophisticated perimeter fencing. Paul Jordaan: 082 876 0577; Office: 044 533 2529; Web Ref: SIR111884.

FANCOURT GOLF ESTATE, GEORGE

Asking: R17.5 million | 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 3 Garages

Fancourt is renowned for its award-winning golf courses, spectacular gardens, superb restaurants, tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools and luxurious spa facilities, providing a world-class lifestyle. Expansive, inter-leading living areas, featuring a combustion fireplace, open out to the massive outdoor living area, with braai, oven, serving area, and seating. An exceptionally large study, enjoys private access and could easily convert to an additional guest suite. The classically-styled kitchen; the pyjama lounge; and the upper, outdoor terrace; complete the picture. Ronél Thiart: 083 627 6806; Office: 044 873 2519; Web Ref: SIR110773.

KEURBOOMSTRAND, GARDEN ROUTE

Asking: R29.5 million | 4 Bedrooms | 4 Ensuite Bathrooms | 3 Garages

Exceptional contemporary home on Keurbooms beachfront, where luxury, functionality, and breathtaking natural beauty converge. Open plan living area designed for seamless living and entertaining, separate scullery and laundry area, guest toilet, two dedicated workspaces, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, separate self-contained flat, swimming pool, upmarket finishes, Miele appliances, and independent energy and water resources, offering self-sufficiency and peace of mind. It’s no exaggeration that you can watch dolphins and whales from your balcony, adding to the allure of this seaside retreat. Sue Harvey: 083 306 7499; Elbie Pama: 082 569 2588; Office: 044 533 2529; Web Ref: SIR111805.

Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty – Plettenberg is an independently owned and operated franchise business of Bahia Formosa Estate CC – Reg# 1997/005096/23 under sub licence from Geffen International Realty Franchises (Proprietary) Limited
Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty – Plettenberg

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