When most people initially think of Africa, they think of vast, open, dry African landscape, a seemingly limitless bounty of aridity with no relief.
But just as Africa hosts a large diversity of ethnicities, cultures and languages, it also boasts some genteel and diverse landscapes. It’s not only a continent with the Sahara spreading wide with sand dunes that stretch for hundreds of miles at heights of more than one thousand feet. It's also a dwelling that embraces undulating plateaus cradling some of the purest, luscious greenery and highlands with the most monumental mountain ranges. Large and deep lakes, accompanied by the most wild and tempestuous terrains bounded by the blues of the Mediterranean and Red Seas, and the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, help to create the quintessential symmetry of this mighty continent. It remains evident, the beauty of Africa runs deep; however, this motherload of majesty would not be complete without its luxurious mansions.
It turns out that Africa is not only one of the richest areas for plants in the world, one of the richest lands for diversified ecology, but is one of the richest real estate domains providing the most luxurious homes ever to be built.
Camps Bay, Western Cape
This palatial property, dubbed The Casablanca, is designed for opulent living on a most lavish scale. This sanctuary hosts the most glorious reception rooms, unobstructed sea views from every room and the most majestic mountain backdrop.
It simply doesn't get any better than this African morning sunlight.
Except, perhaps, with this spectacular afternoon view?
Grand-Baie, Mauritius
This stately villa is situated in Grand Baie and is one of four colonial villas on oceanfront property with tropical surrounds.
There are five bright and airy bedrooms, each with an en-suite luxurious bathroom and designer walk-in closet. The master suite expands into a massive balcony with the most stunning water views.
The regal living area opens out to embrace the landscaped garden and pool deck, accompanied by a gazebo that eloquently complements the slate-bottomed infinity pool. The massive patio is ideal for relaxing or entertaining numerous guests in Gatsby-like fashion.
Teak and natural stone finishes create a warm ambience throughout the home and cathedral ceilings optimize the natural light and expand the spaciousness of each room.
Constantia, Cape Town
This picturesque property is set on 3.5 acres and remains the epitome of solace, grandeur and the very best architectural design - all of which sit nicely in the most beautifully landscaped garden.
State-of-the-art functionality and sophisticated simplicity make this property the perfect not-so-humble abode.
Panoramic views keep you company while you work out in your private gym with lap pool, or dine outdoors with an ocean breeze to caress your face while effortlessly elevating the elegance of your home.
Beau Champ, Flacq
This villa depicts the perfect combination of modernity and traditionalism. It's an oasis that exhibits a collection of upscale furniture, bespoke finishes, glazed oak panels and hand-embroidered paintings. And the most awe-inspiring vistas of verdant green encapsulated by the rolling hills beyond are to be found here.
This home boasts a grand entrance, an open plan kitchen with breakfast bar, an office/study and an entertainment room with cinema, master bedroom with luxurious custom-designed en-suite bathroom and two walk-in closets, a jacuzzi on a private patio adjoining the swimming pool, a private hammam, sauna and gym, two wine cellars and a surround sound system.
As if more is required, Residents enjoy access to two exceptional 18-hole championship golf courses and exclusive use of two beaches.
A palatial living area is accentuated by two glamorous chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling glass walls that allow for the entry of natural light and panoramic views of the outdoors. From every angle, the landscaped gardens unfurl like a 3-D green tapestry studded with tropical plants. Spa-like enjoyments include a private kiosk with lounge and dining areas, a timber deck and a swimming pool with five water jets.
Come to eye some young trees that are twice the size of you, and rest your eyes upon distant mountains that pierce the bluest of skies. Feel that thick green grass under your feet leading the way to the thickest of forests that carpet the uplands. Smell the thickly scented spruce branches on your veranda. In other words, let the beauty of Africa come to you, wash over you, as you relax and reside in any one of the above-mentioned luxury homes.
All images courtesy of Sotheby's International Realty
