Once a dear little hamlet bordering KwaZulu-Natal’s Valley of 1000 Hills, Hillcrest underwent a massive property boom before becoming the established Durban suburb we know today.

Conceived with modest ambitions as a self-governed farming village among sprawling fields of sugar cane, it was often used by townies as a peaceful country escape. Those who wanted a safer, less crowded country lifestyle only 35 kilometres from Durban had it good – at least until the cosy town was rezoned for office and commercial use.

But luckily Cotswold Downs Golf & Country Estate in the affluent Upper Highway area offers a little something of the old Hillcrest. The estate is modelled on the Cotswolds area in the United Kingdom, a rural landscape harbouring stone-built houses with manicured gardens, each community clustered around a village green where the townspeople meet. This architectural vision of a venerable English settlement is evident in the grey slate roofs and other stone used in the design of Cotswold Downs.

There’s fresh country air in abundance on this 220-hectare estate, which has enough unspoiled wilderness to make you feel far away from the city. Nature has been allowed to take its course, and the low-density country life that the estate’s residents so treasure is here to stay. No matter where they are located on the estate, home owners enjoy views over indigenous grasslands, lakes and escarpment forest inhabited by duiker and other wildlife. The Nqutu River provides a natural wetland, which is home to at least 239 bird species.

The estate had a slow start with the economic downturn that occurred in 2010, but it picked up within two years, and it is now well established.

The well-secured estate comprises eight villages with 698 residential opportunities in total – all designed with space and privacy in mind. One option for investors is a package deal that enables them to see pre-designed and -priced homes going to market. Alternatively, plots can be bought, followed by the necessary handshakes with accredited architect and construction teams, after which building can commence. Seven sectional title units are also available and ideally suited to families who enjoy the spirit of community and neighbourliness. One of the many drawcards of the Cotswold Downs country lifestyle, particularly for families, is the convenient proximity of some of the most reputable private and government schools in the province.

The recently opened leisure centre, managed by a very capable team, boasts magnificent views overlooking the valley and the 18-hole championship golf course. It has enhanced demand for the estate as it offers quality with a variety of activities for home owners, including a modern training facility with professional trainers, a squash court, two tennis courts, and a well-stocked pro shop. The Cotswold pub (now known as the home owners bar) and an in-house restaurant, which are open to the public, are fast becoming a must-visit for anyone who enjoys great cuisine with homely flavours.

The signature Matkovich 18-hole golf course is undoubtedly one of the best in KwaZulu-Natal, if not the very best, and is fast becoming a must-play course in South Arica. Cotswold has twice been voted the best-maintained golf course in KZN, and it was also recognised as one of the best new golf courses in South Africa in 2006. It has hosted the World Amateur Golfers Championship and three World Pro-Am events, among other tournaments.

Another aspect for investors to consider is that home owners could be contracted into taking a large stake in the golf club, thus benefiting from profit share. Buying into the estate would give home owners a level of control over some of the managerial and socio-economic decisions made concerning the estate.

Along with the indoor facilities, home owners can enjoy well-signposted walking trails heading into the forested hills, which offer an escape into the bush for those who just can’t get enough fresh air. Strategically positioned parks ensure that leisure time outdoors is safe for children. A very popular feature is the village green that forms the social hub of the estate. The use of natural materials for the benches, jungle gym and other features will enhance the organic soul of the estate.

Of course, fibre to the home is standard, with a range of packages for home owners. This system complements the estate-managed fibre network that is responsible for resource management, such as efficient energy distribution, water management systems and hi-tech advanced security measures.