The luxury estate next to a maximum security prison in South Africa
Steenberg Golf Estate in Cape Town is one of the most sought-after in South Africa, even if it is a stone’s throw away from Pollsmoor prison.
Steenberg’s history dates back to 1662, when a 22-year-old German widow, Catherina Ustings, arrived in South Africa.
After acquiring land for the Governor, Ustings became the first female land-owner in the new South Africa, establishing the first grape farm in the Constantia valley.
Today, Steenberg Farm boasts the 5-star Steenberg Hotel and Spa, a farm and winery specialising in Sauvignon Blanc, several restaurants, and the popular Golf Estate.
Steenberg, which is found in the south of Cape Town, is a highly popular destination for buyers looking for a secure and nature-conscious area to live.
However, just opposite the M42 is Pollsmoor Prison, a maximum security prison that holds thousands of prisoners, including some of the nation’s most violent offenders.
The prison’s history dates back to 1834, when Hendrick van der Poll purchased the land bordering Steenberg to establish a vegetable farm.
The land was sold to the Cape Command in 1940 for use as a military base during World War II. During the war, the land was used as a military prison.
After the war, the land began to house more prisoners as surrounding farms required prison labour. In 1959, the land was officially designated as a prison.
The estate is booming
Despite the proximity to the prison, the Steenberg Golf Estate still ranks highly among the nation’s elite.
The estate is not only a prominent place for luxury living, but it is also demonstrating a compelling investment proposition, according to Lew Geffen Sotheby’s.
Data from Lightstone also shows a shift in the people who are buying property within the estate.
Over the year ending September 2024, the largest cohort of buyers (42.86%) was aged 50 to 64. This was closely followed by the 36-49 age group (28.57%).
The influx of younger buyers is contrasted by the majority of sellers (72%) being over the age of 65, signalling a rejuvenation as established homeowners make way for a community of younger buyers.
“What we are witnessing at Steenberg is a perfect storm of desirability,” said Steve Thomas from Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty.
“The median property valuation of R15.35 million over 12 months ending September 2025 reflects its premium status, but the changing buyer demographic tells a deeper story.”
Thomas said that successful professionals and families are investing in a secure, amenity-rich lifestyle that is incredibly rare to find so close to the city.
The media price for the estate in 2025 alone is R17.75 million, far higher than the R15 million seen in the year ended September.
Part of the estate’s appeal is its “invisible shield” of security, which features 24-hour guarded access, roaming patrols, and an advanced camera system. Poolsmoor’s security is clearer to see.
The sense of safety is also complemented by convenience, with top-tier schools like Reddam House Constantia adjacent to the estate.
The CBD and airport are also within a 25-minute drive, and the warm beaches of False Bay, like those at Muizenburg, are just over the hill.
“Steenberg uniquely blends a countryside resort feel with urban accessibility,” said Dave Burger from Lew Geffen Sotheby’s.
“But for the astute investor, the real magic lies in the rental potential. With holiday rentals commanding between R5,000 and R30,000 per day, the wealth creation opportunity is significant.”
Due to the demand for the gold course and world-class leisure facilities, the rental season isn’t confined to peak holiday periods.
Home ownership on the estate comes with an automatic golf membership, with easy access to the hotel, spa and restaurants, which create a resort-style lifestyle.
Steenberg Golf Estate
Loading ...