As of January 2023, the Winelands is now the unlikely home to an exhilarating water sport known as eFoiling. Launched by the new Devonbosch Development as part of their ‘life unlimited’ vision, this latest outdoor activity involves surfing on a hydrofoil surfboard that is powered by electricity without the need for waves or wind to propel the surfer forward. “With surfing already being a popular activity in Cape Town and on the coastline of the Western Cape, we are excited to bring this new water sport inland to the Winelands, which will undoubtedly see a surge of both locals and tourists enjoying some gnarly hang ten time over the festive season,” says Reghard Goussard, Marketing and Sales Executive of SquareTurn Developments, responsible for the development of Devonbosch. Surfing in the heart of the Winelands – is that even possible some might ask.
Efoiling is an environmentally friendly water sport with strict regulations that need to be adhered to by all riders. Devonbosch utilises eFoils from Fliteboard who won the 2022 Green Product Award, a sustainability award. According to Johan Nel, of eFoil Cape Town, “Fliteboard is possibly one of the world’s most efficient and environmentally friendly powered marine vehicle. Fliteboard ushers in new technologies that, when scaled, have potential to create a future of quiet and clean ocean enjoyment and transport. The underwater acoustic profile is significantly less impactful than even the smallest petrol marine motor”.
A thrilling addition to the rich variety of outdoor activities planned for Devonbosch, tenants working in the Brickfields offices, residents and visitors, can all enjoy eFoiling under the careful, professional guidance of instructors who are trained lifesavers and who constantly supervise clients on the water. These eFoils also have an integrated GPS tracking system which allows for monitoring of lessons and the collection of necessary data to help improve clients’ experiences and instructor training.
Nel adds that, “Efoils used by clients have a safety mechanism which is factory installed on their controllers where they must undergo a safety procedure each time they want to power up the board. Clients need to depress the trigger for longer than 5 seconds, then press another button to activate the throttle trigger. This guarantees that if a client falls off or is sitting on the eFoil, they do not accidentally press the trigger and let the board drive away uncontrolled”.
Safety is paramount and each instructor attends mandatory lessons which include a safety induction, maritime and environmental laws, eFoiling mechanics and health protocols and procedures, which will equip them with the skills to ensure that each person is as safe as possible while eFoiling.
eFoiling sessions are handled by an online system which allows for safe and secure reservations and payments. On the day of the session, clients will drive through Devonbosch, meet at the lake and are equipped with wetsuits and safety kits which include a helmet and lifejacket before they are accompanied by qualified instructors to the water.
Progressive thinkers, SquareTurn Property Developers, aim to turn Devonbosch into a destination, not just a development. “Our intention is to welcome the public and inspire future residents of Devonbosch to spend more time outdoors through Devonbosch’s new activities and facilities being offered in this beautiful setting. Bringing surfing inland to the Winelands’ for the first time ever aligns with SquareTurn’s mission of not just creating developments, but rather delivering change in the areas we operate in and we are now well on our way to making this area a hive of activity and positive change”, explains Jean Pierre Nortier – CEO, SquareTurn Property Developers.
Devonbosch is positioned alongside Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek and this development will offer its residents a hub of activities on its doorstep that includes a natural lake and vast areas of wetlands, bespoke retail, restaurants and cafes, the winelands first-ever surfing without wind or waves creation, catch and release fishing, mountain biking, hiking and running trails, green parks and adrenalin pumping activities for all ages – to name just a few of the offerings currently being developed. The first of a number of residential offerings within Devonbosch, the Piazza, has recently broken ground, offering investors and homeowners the opportunity to buy into one of 36 designer apartments starting from R1 575 000 – with 26 of these apartments already sold. For more information or to register your interest before these limited amount of units sell out, visit www.Devonbosch.co.za.
ABOUT DEVONBOSCH DEVELOPMENT
At Devonbosch, you will encounter the essence of connected living, with the outdoors as your playground and Stellenbosch lifestyle on your doorstep. Explore a vibrant and dynamic way of living where nature, sustainability and the environment are seamlessly intertwined. Cycle to your local market or amble along the brick-laid pathways surrounded by tree-lined green spaces, mountainous valleys of the Cape Winelands as well as stunning wetlands and a picturesque lake teeming with bird life.
ABOUT SQUARETURN
SquareTurn Developments is a South African property development company established by a prominent Belgian property group Square Group.Through meticulous investment strategies and high quality bespoke developments, both companies have established themselves as leaders in the European property market. SquareTurn Developments have invested in strategically desirable land holdings in the Cape. At SquareTurn, we believe that change is the driving force behind progress. As a progressive land developer and property investment firm, our mission is to create lasting change in communities in South Africa. Whether through innovative architectural designs, sustainable building practices, or groundbreaking urban planning initiatives, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible and shaping a brighter future for generations to come. With our global reach and diverse team of experts, we don’t just develop; we also create destinations with cutting-edge thinking at the highest level. SquareTurn. we deliver change.
