about

THE HISTORY OF THE
ISLANDS

A LEGACY ROOTED
IN THE
LAND

The land on which The Islands Estate stands is deeply rooted in history, having remained in the family of developer Dries Pretorius for more than 160 years. This multi-generational connection shaped the estate’s development philosophy from the very beginning. Rather than being conceived as a conventional property development, The Islands Estate was envisioned as a personal legacy - a transformation of a cherished landscape into a world-class sanctuary without losing its soul.

Canal View Of Houses Mountain

the inspiration behind the
islands estate

Inspiration from
the River Thames

The inspiration for what would become South Africa’s “Inland Riviera” was born far from the Bushveld. While travelling in the United Kingdom, Dries Pretorius observed the long boats navigating the canals and lock systems of the River Thames. Struck by the harmony between water, architecture and lifestyle, he recognised that the flat terrain surrounding Hartbeespoort Dam offered a rare opportunity to reinterpret this European marina concept in a uniquely South African setting, forming the basis for what would become the country’s first inland marina estate

A Vision United by Collaboration

This vision took shape through a collaboration between Andries Pretorius and developers Andre and Roelf Burger, united by a shared ambition to redefine luxury living by seamlessly integrating land and water. Guided by the philosophy of “Unity in Diversity,” the team set out to create a residential estate where engineering excellence and natural beauty coexist.

engineering the
inland
riveira

The scale of the transformation was unprecedented. More than 600,000 cubic metres of earth were moved to create approximately six kilometres of navigable canals, islands and waterways.
Central to this achievement is its patented bi-directional lock system, which enables controlled access between the canals and Hartbeespoort Dam while maintaining independent water levels - a critical element in supporting a secure and functional marina environment.

Where Heritage Meets
lifestyle

Set against the timeless backdrop of the Magaliesberg mountains, The Islands Estate emerged as a seamless blend of heritage, vision and ingenuity. Today, it stands not only as a premier lifestyle destination, but as a legacy where past, present and future converge — a place where history, water and modern living flow together in perfect balance. This enduring harmony ensures that the estate remains not just a place to live, but a sanctuary to be cherished for generations to come.

Architecture and Living

One Estate. Distinct Ways to Live. The Islands Estate offers a range of residential options, each designed around a different lifestyle: from expansive waterfront living to effortless lock-up-and-go convenience.

Residential Developments

Exterior View Canal View

CANAL-FRONT FREEHOLD HOMES

The Ultimate Waterfront Lifestyle. Positioned along the estate’s six kilometers of navigable waterways, these premium freehold stands (approx. 1,000 m²) offer the unique luxury of a private jetty right at your doorstep. Designed for those who seek a seamless connection to the water, they provide generous space for bespoke design and direct boat access to the Hartbeespoort Dam

Islands architectural guidelines

OFF-CANAL FREEHOLD HOMES

Expansive Space & Privacy. Set on larger stands exceeding 1,300 m², these homes are ideal for those prioritizing scale, seclusion, and architectural freedom without direct canal frontage. Surrounded by lush parklands and inland dams, these properties offer a serene "village" atmosphere with commanding views of the Magaliesberg mountains.

Islands architectural guidelines
Parkland View Home Exterior
Exterior View Canal View

baybridge canal

As the heart of the "Inland Riviera," Baybridge features 165 canal-front stands (approx. 300m²) designed for a contemporary lock-up-and-go lifestyle. These homes blend wide verandas and natural stone cladding with the convenience of private jetties. Residents enjoy effortless access to the Hartbeespoort Dam via the estate’s bi-directional lock system, making it perfect for weekend boating.

Baybridge architectural guidelines

marine island

Comprising just 40 double-storey sectional title homes, Marine Island offers modern design with minimal upkeep. Whether positioned along the rock-packed "rip-rap" water edges or inland, these residences emphasize security and community living. Open-plan layouts maximize views of the canals and parklands, creating a stylish, low-maintenance sanctuary within the estate.

Parkland View Home Exterior
Exterior View Canal View

I’Bali Village

A relaxed sectional title village of thoughtfully designed homes ranging from 150 m² to 256 m², ideal for downsizers, young families or those seeking secure, easy living within the estate.