Escape the chaos: Why more South Africans are trading Cape Town and Joburg for this KZN gem

The quaint town of Underberg in KwaZulu-Natal has fast-become a sought-after residential option for scores of people wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of big city life.

According to the Pam Goldings property group, the region is drawing growing interest from home buyers seeking space, tranquillity, and excellent value compared to city house prices.

Pam Golding Properties area principal in Underberg, Angela Walker, said freestanding homes on large 2,000sqm to 4,000sqm stands in Underberg and nearby Himeville are in high demand.

"These properties offer exceptional value, typically selling between R1.5 million and R4 million," she added.

Underberg is a renowned trout-fishing spot with more than 160 kilometres of rivers and 60 dams.

Residents flocking to this town can also take up canoeing, rafting, tubing, hiking, cycling, horse trails, and can easily access Sani Pass into Lesotho to catch the snow-capped peaks during the colder months.

"Younger buyers are moving into the area, relocating their families from cities such as Johannesburg and Durban, and some from the Western Cape, acquiring homes in the R1.5 million to R2 million mark, while retirees tend to purchase up to around R3 million," Walker said.

She said with farming forming the backbone of the region, Underberg continues to attract employees across key industries, including dairy farming, the large-scale Underberg Dairies plant which buys and processes locally produced milk, agricultural co-ops and support services, and local supermarkets.

seanne.rall@iol.co.za

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