Web Ref No RLS944094

The reopening of the EU export markets to the various equine disciplines in SA makes this property a perfect investment opportunity for the savvy investor. Backworth House in the picturesque farming district of Eston is set in an elevated position with sweeping views over the Umkomaas Valley towards Sani Pass and Mid Illovo in a private, protected conservancy. This offers a diversity of wildlife including duiker, oribi, bushbuck and reedbuck. For bird lovers there are regular sightings of eagles, falcons and other raptors and the ground hornbills. The 1km long driveway lined with azaleas, yellowwoods and hydrangeas is a most fitting prelude and introduction to one of the oldest and most notable homes in the area. The Main House, built in 1924, was recently upgraded and has retained all its charm and unique features with Harvey tile over the thatch keeping the house cool in summer. The handcrafted fireplace by Dicky Ward in the one lounge is copper and strapped with steel. There is also a formal lounge and tv lounge with dining area. The main dining room is vast with doors opening out onto a patio and al fresco dining area overlooking the extensive landscaped garden with its many water features and indigenous trees. The garden was designed by Peter Bretherton and features, sparkling swimming pool and tennis court. 4 en suite bedrooms with sitting/dressing rooms (the upstairs bedroom also has its own sitting and dining area), and an extra bathroom down the conservatory walkway. The kitchen with a centre island is well equipped and has a walk-in pantry. The laundry and storeroom are separate. Also forming part of the main house is an outside cottage with 2 en suite rooms, one with own courtyard. Garaging for 4 cars and 2 carports. A 60kva generator runs the main house and all outbuildings when required.

The Second House, under tile, is modern with an open plan design. The large lounge with fireplace opens onto an undercover verandah with expansive views of the countryside. The dining area with a jetmaster fireplace is across from the kitchen which has 4 ovens, a gas hob and 3 x electric 2 plate hobs and ample cupboards plus a pantry. There is a scullery and separate laundry. There is also a billiard room and study. The 3 bedrooms are all en suite with the main bedroom having its own dressing room. This house has its own inverter, water tank room, 2 x 5000L water tanks and pump plus a double garage. The Cottage is double storey under thatch and comprises lounge/dining room, 1 bedroom with bathroom and a loft room. There is a single carport and the property is fenced. Staff Quarters – 9 individual rooms sharing 2 communal showers and toilets with 3 additional en-suite rooms. All rooms have their own electricity meters. Geysers are solar. A stable block with 15 stables and a manager’s cottage consisting of a living space, kitchenette, 1 bedroom and bathroom. There is also an office, a tool room and feed room. A horse ring to take Velox Walker and a lunge ring. 21 paddocks under Kikuyu grass and 2 walk through dips. Further outbuildings include a large steel hay barn and garaging for tractor and horse box. There is also a vegetable garden and greenhouse plus 2x boreholes. All 26.47 Ha is completely utilised, either under pasture or gardens. A monthly levy is payable to a security company for the area for monitoring patrol, armed response and road camera. This is an excellent opportunity for either the investment buyer looking to maximise returns as a B+B (Currently licenced) or wedding venue (featured on top billing) or a horse orientated family wanting to enjoy this unique country living lifestyle. Financials are available to qualified buyers. Viewing is by appointment only.