Retirement villages aren’t what they used to be – and that’s an understatement. While the old-fashioned retirement village used to be a small property with possibly a little garden, right on top of your neighbour, these days retirement developments are luxurious and beautiful, with everything you would expect from a security estate, plus a whole lot more.
It’s not surprising, then, that the Cape Winelands has so many retirement developments, as it offers not only the beauty and serenity of the area but also space to enjoy life to the full – including all kinds of amenities and activities catering specifically for the older generation. Here are a few of our favourites:
Oude Chardonnay Health & Lifestyle Estate, Paarl
With lifestyle units sold on a freehold basis with full recovery plus profits when resold, Oude Chardonnay is popular with those wanting to invest and secure for their retirement at the same time. The homes are brand new in the modern Cape Dutch style and available in two sizes: two-bedroom 109m² houses or three-bedroom 134m² houses. A wellness centre with medical facilities includes a 24/7 emergency service when necessary, and security is a priority. Two hectares of grounds provide plenty of space, and pets are welcome. It’s a lifestyle estate as well as a retirement village.
Helderberg Village, Somerset West
A peaceful, luxurious retirement estate in the ever-popular Somerset West, Helderberg Village is set against the backdrop of the Helderberg Mountains and has all the amenities you’d expect from a top retirement village. A restaurant, art studio, library, gym, 9-hole golf course, bowling greens, tennis courts and swimming pools mean you’ll be spoilt for leisure choices, while 24-hour security and superb health care have your best interests taken care of. Houses are available for sale or to rent, and as the estate was established in 1987, it has a long and proud history.
La Clémence Retirement Village, Stellenbosch
This luxury retirement village is about to complete its final phase of development, which will make it a 138 home development, all offered for freehold ownership. Beautiful gardens and modern Cape-Dutch architecture make this a stylish village with a fully-equipped healthcare centre that offers assisted living, frail care and sub-acute care. The clubhouse offers a range of activities and the swimming pool and weekly ladies exercise classes keep more active retirees busy. Situated between Stellenbosch and Somerset West, this village is truly in the heart of the Cape Winelands.
If you’re looking for an idyllic place to retire, this beautiful part of the Cape is an ideal place to start the search…