The lifestyle estates in this area have a wide range of properties that appeals to a variety of different buyers.
Olympus, named after Mount Olympus, the home of the gods in Greek mythology, lies on the tranquil far-eastern outskirts of Pretoria. The various lifestyle developments within the suburb are collectively known as the “Boardwalk Estates”.
This group of security estates was developed on the banks of the Tweefontein Spruit, which branches off the Moreleta Spruit and meanders along a greenbelt through Olympus. The estates were designed with the boardwalk theme in mind, but remain in absolute harmony with the surrounding natural environment.
The area boasts prolific birdlife and includes the Boardwalk Bird Sanctuary. Although home to many prestigious, sizeable, higher-end homes, the Boardwalk Estates are made up of a wide range of properties, enabling a diverse group of residents to enjoy the delightful, uninterrupted environment and lifestyle of the area.
The renowned Boardwalk Manor Estate, with its striking landscaped gardens, fountains and statues, reflects the look and feel of a charming Italian village. In 2014, the estate won a Gold Award of Excellence in the South African Landscapers Institute Awards. The estate offers a family-friendly environment where children can safely play and residents can jog, play tennis and squash, or relax at the pool in a secure setting. Property types include enchanting Italian villas and pretty family homes, as well as adorable spacious townhouses.
Similarly, residents of the beautiful Boardwalk Meander Estate can take pleasure in the serene countryside ambiance created by a lake, four dams, inviting walking trails and bird hides. Residents can also cast a line in the stream or feed the ducks from the jetty.
The estate features some lovely upmarket full-title properties and equally elegant sectional-title units. Thoughtful emphasis is placed on style and aesthetics, while pride is taken in top-notch security.
Boardwalk Villas and Boardwalk Heights Estate are focused on first-time buyers, investors and the rental market. Boardwalk Villas is made up of a number of apartment/townhouse complexes dotted around the area. As a rule of thumb, these secure complexes – mostly made up of one- or two-bedroom units – feature well-maintained communal gardens, swimming pools, kids’ play areas and braai facilities.
Boardwalk Heights is a high-density development in the easternmost parts of the area. Featuring communal facilities, the estate comprises two/three-storey apartment blocks with units suitable for a lock-up-and-go lifestyle.
Amenities include the Boardwalk Office Park as well as Boardwalk Lakeside, with some good restaurants located on the waterfront. Basic shopping can be done at Olympus Village and Olympus Plaza. For a more complete shopping experience, residents can visit neighbouring Faerie Glen, which boasts just about every urban amenity and facility imaginable.
Olympus is easily accessible via the main roads of Atterbury Road and Solomon Mahlangu Drive, which link up to the N1 and N4 highways respectively.
There is nothing more relaxing than sipping on a sundowner at a restaurant on the Lakeside. It calms my mind and soul
-Kayi Mkize, resident.
Schools nearby:
- Woodhill College
- Maragon Olympus
- Laerskool Garsfontein
- Hoërskool Garsfontein
Nature close by:
- Faerie Glen Municipal Nature Reserve: for a variety of fauna and flora
- Hedianga Farm: for trail running, mountain biking and picnicking
- Boardwalk Bird Sanctuary: for bird-watching while walking on timber walkways along the dam
Dine Out
- Beerhaus Bavaria: for great craft beer and German cuisine
- Ibiza Sky Lounge: for traditional African food
- Koffietijd Cafe and Tea Garden: for homecooked food in a countryside setting
- Square Time Cafe and Restaurant: for excellent meals in a friendly atmosphere
- The Belgian Triple: for Belgian craft beer and cuisine
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
View more of this neighbourhood here:
