Welgevonden is a stunning private reserve comprising about 47000ha of temperate savannah bushveld well stocked with game, including the Big Five. Several rivers bisect the area, which has been declared an international biosphere.
The reserve is a four-hour drive north of Johannesburg, or just less than an hour’s flying time from OR Tambo airport to one of the reserve’s two airstrips.
The reserve incorporates 61 privately owned sites of about 500ha each, owned by SA’s leading companies, syndicates, prominent captains of commerce and a number of foreign investors.
More than 420km of good, gravel roads are in place and every owner has traversing rights throughout the reserve.
Hunting is not permitted and access is restricted to owners and a limited number of guests, which ensures privacy and exclusivity for owners and their guests.
The area is fully secured and owners have formed a land owners’ association to manage the reserve through a board of trustees. The board is responsible for maintenance, security, fire prevention and management and game control.
Moreover, Welgevonden borders on the Marakele National Park. An agreement has been struck reportedly whereby all fencing between the two reserves is to be removed once all the compliance issues are resolved.
This amalgamation will form a super-reserve of more than 120000ha which could rival the Kruger National Park.
It is in this setting that the Martial Heights game lodge, named after the indigenous martial eagle, is to be auctioned.
The opulent freehold property measures 500ha, is fully developed, enjoys unobstructed views of the surrounding countryside and the magnificent Waterberg mountains. The lodge can be used in a private or commercial capacity.
The main lodge covers about 420m² complete with kitchen, laundry, dining and bar area, cloakrooms, a TV lounge, administration block and reception area.
A large African boma and braai area, as well as five fully fitted, furnished chalets and a manager’s home and staff quarters also feature. Luxury bathrooms, jacuzzis and wooden decks come standard with every chalet.
All driveways and walkways are paved and a garage, natural rock swimming pool, and watering hole are also in evidence.
A specially converted 10-passenger game viewing vehicle, utility vehicle and other movable assets are included in the sale.
Bertie Saunderson of Park Village Auctions says: “The lodge is arguably one of the most exclusive pieces of South African real estate and will appeal to corporates, syndicates, leisure groups and high net worth individuals alike.
“This is a prime investment opportunity that should not be missed especially, given the fact that the market currently favours buyers,” says Saunderson
The auction will take place at the Wanderers Club and starts at 11am. Viewing takes place by special arrangement from Friday November 6 to Wednesday November 11.