Presentation on 12th January 2012
On 12th January 2012, Mr. Van Herwaarden, the investor and developer of Avren Golf and Leisure Resort will present the project to the press, financial institutions and invited members of the public. The presentation will be held in Varna town (Bulgaria) at the Golden Tulip Hotel starting at 16:00 hrs in the “Monet” conference hall. After the presentation there will be time for questions and discussions. Places are limited and entry is strictly by invitation only.
If you would like to attend the presentation, please send a request to enquiries@appletreeproperties.co.uk. Please include your name and the name(s) of any people who will accompany you.
Plans for Layout of Golf Course Released
Interest in the proposed Golf and Leisure Resort at Avren is growing steadily. The release of the planned layout for the resort can only heighten the interest and anticipation.
The plan of the resort shows facilities such as the clubhouse, tennis courts and an equestrian centre, in addition to the golf course and the luxurious villas and apartments. The release of the layout ends years of speculation about the design of the course and the number of holes that will be included. The 2D schematic shows a full 18 hole golf course, beautifully set amongst forest land and incorporating a bridge across the stream.
Show House Released for Off-Plan Sale
If you have been wondering what has happened to the Show House for the Avren Golf and Leisure Resort, you will be happy to know that preparations for the house began way back in July 2001. The plot has been cleared and tidied and the first footings have been dug. The delay in the construction of the Show House is due to the municipal authority, which is taking its time in processing the application for planning consent. It was initially expected that the house (which is being built with a wooden frame and prefabricated panels, would not require as many documents as a brick or stone house. However, Avren Municipality decided, in their wisdom, that the prefabricated house should be dealt with in the same way as any other house.
The Show House will be constructed in the centre of Avren village, just a few minutes away from the golf course and the main development. Conveniently situated for all the village amenities, as well as for the golf resort, the house will offer energy-saving features, including insulated walls and Triple Solar roof panels which capture energy from the sun's rays and turn it into a domestic electricity supply. Full details of the Show House will be appearing soon on the Apple Tree Properties web site, together with details of other properties for sale in Bulgaria.
The Show House is being offered for sale at a price of 57,500 Euros. It comes with a guaranteed rental return of 5% per year for the first 2 years after completion, as well as a special Privilege Membership of the golf resort. And to make the sales package even more irresistable, whoever buys the Show House will be able to part-exchange it for one of the villas on the golf course when they are built.
Membership of Avren Golf and Leisure Resort
The standard fee for a year's membership of the resort will be 800 Euros. This will entitle you to play unlimited rounds of golf without charge. Non members of the club will pay 20 Euros per round.
The buyers of the show house will receive Privilege Membership of the golf resort for two people for the first 3 years. This will mean a total saving of 4,800 Euros in membership fees. Privilege Members also receive 10 golf vouchers per year for each of those 3 years. Each voucher entitles the holder to play one round of golf without charge. The vouchers can be given to friends, relatives or business colleagues as gifts.
The Visit of our Golf Architect in June
Richard Le Sueur (our chief golf course designer) was working on-site at Avren Golf this summer, and several golf enthusiasts took the opportunity to discuss the plans with him.
With the release of the official Business Plan for Avren Golf, it seems a fitting time to let everyone know of its actual location.
On the left is a satellite image of Avren. The purple highlighted area shows only one part of the golf course - there will be more to come, so watch this space!
You can visit Richard's web site using the following link: www.golfdesignscotland.com
Show House and Information Centre
The golf course and the golf properties come one step closer as Jan van Herwaarden reveals plans to build the Show House and Information centre on land just 3 km from the golf course. During a meeting between Jan and Dr. Gad Hasson of Avren Holdings Bulgaria OOD it was agreed that the first eco-house will be built on land owned by Avren Holdings. Work on the house will begin as soon as building permission is received.
The house will be constructed out of prefabricated panels, supplied by a company in Latvia. It will be just one of the styles from which customers will be able to choose. The Show House will give property buyers an opportunity to examine the high standard of workmanship involved in these prefabricated homes. It will also be a second source of information regarding the golf course and the golf homes.
Official Business Plan Released
It's the moment we've all been waiting for - the release of the official Business Plan for the golf development at Avren. On Thursday 12th May, the Business Plan and the Budget for the project were delivered to the Mayor of Avren. Now you have a chance to obtain your own copy of the Business Plan for this exciting development.
In the Business Plan, Jan and his team formally announce the objective of the project. It is "to develop a quality and affordable golf course project in Avren, Bulgaria and make the project most profitable for the selected level of risk. To design, sell, and construct an environmentally friendly village of houses with apartments and villas that will benefit from the view to the golf course and the serene surrounding area."
The Business Plan then gives a short description of the project, explaining that it will include either a "9 holes reversed to 18" or an 18 hole course. The first option allows 18 holes to be played within a small area and will be used if the amount of land is limited. Bascially, you play 9 holes in one direction and then turn around and play them in the reverse order. This design has been used successfully in other golf locations such as the Ocean View golf course in Bermuda.
The Business Plan describes in detail the location of the proposed golf course and golf homes, the plots on which they will be built and why Avren is such a perfect place for the development. It explores the facilities that are offered by other golf courses in Bulgaria and the prices that these competitive courses are charging. The plan explains that golf tourism in Bulgaria is likely to be driven largely by British and Scandinavian visitors, although Germans and Russians are also showing considerable interest in golf developments.
Many of us have been eagerly awaiting the details of the proposed designs for the golf course and the houses. In the Business Plan we can see Jan's dream unfolding; eco-friendly bungalows and apartments set in beautiful surroundings, a club house and a quality golf course with membership available at sensible prices.
Get Your Own Copy of the Business Plan
Storks Say Avren is the Place for New Homes!
Today, a muster of storks was spotted soaring high up in the clear blue skies of Avren. ('muster' is the correct collective noun for a group of storks - in case you were wondering.) In all, we saw 18 storks during the return journey between Sadovo village and the English bar in Avren today - some in the sky and some wandering around in the fields. In Bulgarian folklore, the appearance of a stork is seen as a sign that Spring has arrived.
These wise and well-travelled birds have flown to Avren to build their new homes. No doubt the news that there will soon be a new golf course has reached their ears and very soon, they will be joined by eagles and albatrosses.
Cooperation and Collaboration - The Key to Success
During March 2011, Dessi Stanislavova (Jan van Herwaarden's representative in Bulgaria) and Apple Tree Properties, the English Estate Agents based in Sadovo, Avren, met with Mr. Levi, a representative of Avren Holdings Bulgaria OOD, to discuss their mutual interest in developing Avren as a tourist destination. This informal and friendly meeting was held in the new revolving restaurant, Magnito Sky, at the top of the spectacular Varna Towers Mall.
Avren Holdings is a property development company owned by a large Israeli consortium. Their other interests include the manufacture of industrial refrigerators (with a factory based in Plovdiv) and cereals. They are the largest importer of cereals and grain into Israel. The consortium has invested in plots of land in prime areas of Bulgaria including 700 decares at Avren. Like Mr. van Herwaarden, they recognize the raw beauty of the countryside around Avren and the undeveloped potential of the area.
Of the 700 hectares at Avren, approximately 30% is already regulated and the remainder is expected to achieve regulation within the next 2 months. 200 decares already have planning consent. This has been a long, drawn-out process, with the company negotiating for 3 years to achieve regulation for the land, but Avren Holdings are now ready to start work on the construction of a new housing estate near the golf course.
Construction of the first phase of the new residential and holiday estate will begin this year. There will be a selection of villas, bungalows and cottages, surrounded by greenery and all with beautiful country views. The current plan is to build around 600 luxurious homes in this first phase of the development.
Both developers - Mr. van Herwaarden and Avren Holdings - know that the golf course will be a major attraction for people who are looking for homes in Bulgaria. Both developers are determined to see Avren put well and truly "on the map" for foreign investors looking for good quality, eco-friendly homes. This initial meeting will be followed by in-depth discussions between them and further meetings later this year. The cooperation and collaboration between these two developers can only strengthen their resolve and help them to push forward with their shared vision for Avren.
Supreme Court Rules in Developer's Favour
In February 2010 we reported how Jan van Herwaarden, the developer of the new golf course at Avren, had won a long legal battle against his ex business partner. The victory should have brought that particular battle to an end. But no - his opponent lodged an appeal with the Supreme Court and the battle continued.
Nobody who has watched this situation develop could fail to admire Jan's dedication and determination. Many people would have thrown in the towel long ago. But Jan continued to plan and to conduct preparations for the golf course. And finally, his confidence in the Bulgarian judicial system has been rewarded.
During January 2011, the Supreme Court finally announced that the appeal had been denied. Jan has the green light to proceed with his plans to build this landmark development which will offer golf properties at affordable prices.
Jan is currently having talks with the state authorities to purchase additional land for the golf and leisure complex. Now that the Supreme Court has given its decision, he expects the negotiations to be completed within the next 2 months. The results of a soil survey conducted on the development site were extremely encouraging and the next step is to plan the irrigation of the land.
The irrigation tests will be carried out in April 2011.
In the summer, an information centre will open in Avren. An internet-based information centre will also be provided. Watch this space!
Project Timescales
At the end of April 2010, a series of soil samples were extracted from the site of the golf course. Preliminary inspection of the samples was very positive and indicated a mixture of clay, sand and gravel. The samples have been sent for further analysis and the results will be available soon.
The developer has set the following timescales for the project:
- Soil study before 1st May 2010. (This is on schedule.)
- Hydro report July/August 2010.
- Master Plan to be presented to the municipality by 1st October 2010
- Work on the infrastructure and ground work to begin March 2011
- Construction of first house on golf course to begin September 2011
- Golf driving range and putting green in operation by May 2012
- Complete golf and leisure resort to be in operation during summer 2013
Houses on the golf course will be energy-efficient homes built of prefabricated panels with oak frames. These houses offer greater thermal insulation than most brick-built homes and are constructed using renewable resources. During the next few months, a similar house will be constructed on a separate piece of land on the edge of Avren village, with panoramic views across the valley. This house will be offered for sale with 3-years guaranteed rental and will be used as a 'show house' and sales centre for the golf homes.
More information about oak framed houses is available on the web site of Apple Tree Properties.
Introduction
Golf is a relaxing and sociable sport that is suitable for people of all ages. This gentle exercise creates a feeling of well-being and allows you to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.
Until now, the membership fees for golf resorts have been far too high for many people. The properties that surround the golf courses have been sold at premium prices that are beyond the reach of most buyers. Avren Golf and Leisure resort will be both luxurious and affordable.
Facilities at Avren Golf Resort
The resort will include a 9-hole, professionally-designed golf course, a sport and leisure complex and a residential area. Although the golf course will provide the main focus of the resort, the following additional facilities are planned:
- Hotel
- Restaurant
- Café/snack bar
- Mini-market
- Golf shop
- Swimming pools
- Spa centre with sauna, Jacuzzi, plunge pool and massage
- Fitness centre
- Children's animal park
- Billiards and pool tables
- Bicycles for hire
- Horsemanship lessons
The residential area will comprise approximately 70-100 energy-efficient homes. These homes will be built out of prefabricated panels, using renewable resources. This technology provides several layers of heat insulation and also hydro-insulation. The houses will be designed to harmonise with nature and to enhance the beauty of the area.
All the houses will have magnificent views of the golf course, the sports and leisure facilities or the surrounding countryside. They will be situated in landscaped gardens and will offer luxurious accommodation at affordable prices.
Location of Avren Golf Resort
Situated just a short drive from Varna, the sea capital of Bulgaria, Avren golf course will be very accessible. Varna International Airport has flights from many parts of Europe, Russia, the USA and the UAE. With a new motorway being constructed from Varna to Burgas, and a motorway junction to be available at Avren, this area is attracting major investment.
Avren municipality covers the area between Beloslav and Devnya to the north, Provadia to the west and Dolni Chiflik to the south. The eastern border of the municipality is the Black Sea coast. It has been a favourite place for foreign investors, particularly those from the UK and Northern Ireland, since the early 1990s. The municipal town of Avren, which still retains its rural charm, has become home to a large British community.
Avren Golf and Leisure Resort is situated amongst lush green fields on the outer edge of the town. Members of the golf club will enjoy spectacular views across the Vale of Avren, whilst playing a round of golf on the 9-hole golf course or taking advantage of the many other leisure facilities.
Avren sits at the to of a hill, overlooking a lake. The town has several restaurants and bars, including two which are run by British residents. There is a library with an internet room, a medical centre, a veterinary surgery, primary and secondary schools and a range of local shops.
Just a few kilometres east of the Avren golf course is the Black Sea coast. The beautiful seaside resort and nature reserve of Kamchia provides one of the closest beaches. Here the Kamchia River opens out into the sea. Quaint riverside restaurants serve an excellent choice of food and provide outside seating areas that overlook the river. Boats carry visitors up and down the river and out into the bay. The unspoilt beach is a peaceful place to stroll and is a haven for many species of bird.
Slightly north of Kamchia is the coastal resort of Shkorpilovtsi. Currently a sleepy little village where locals bask in the sunshine and play with their children, there are plans to develop Shkorpilovtsi into a major new beach resort.
Approximately 20 km south-west of Avren is one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in Bulgaria. Lake Tsonevo is approximately 17 km long and curves around the base of the mountains in the Stara Planina range. The lake is reached by a tree-lined road where the vista suddenly opens up to provide absolutely stunning views. Nobody could fail to be entranced by this hidden paradise where the mountains overlook the tranquil beauty of the lake.
Avren Golf Resort – the Legend Lives
After a long delay and a fierce legal battle, a new golf and leisure park is to be built at the Bulgarian town of Avren. This rural town is home to a large British community and the golf course has been the subject of speculation for several years.
In the midst of the Bulgarian countryside, just a short drive south of Varna, lies the small town of Avren. Gathered round their winter fires, or relaxing at a summer BBQ, the Bulgarian and British residents share their stories. Did you know, for example, that Varna plays a major role in Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’ story? Or that the village of Sadovo, near Avren, is famous for its vampire-hunters? And amongst all the legends and tales of wonder is the story of Avren Golf Resort.
Legend has it that a proud and dedicated Dutch man travelled to Avren to build a golf course. For 5 years the story has passed from one person to another – sometimes scorned and sometimes championed by those who longed to hear the ‘swish’ of a golf club. Now, finally, the truth is revealed. The legend is about to become reality.
On Thursday 4th February, 2010, in a presentation at the Municipal Offices of Avren, the plans for the Golf and Leisure resort were revealed. In the presence of the Deputy Mayor of Avren, the Chief Architect and other senior figures from the municipality, the developer, Jan van Herwaarden, and the designer of the golf course, Richard Le Sueur from Golf Design Scotland, outlined the project.
Richard described the history of golf, the role that the game has played in bringing communities together, and how golf has become a world-wide business involving billions of dollars. He told the members of the meeting that the new Golf and Leisure resort would be environmentally-friendly and that it would enhance the natural beauty of the area.
Jan explained that there had been a long legal battle with his former business partner, which delayed the project for 2 years. In November 2009 the case was resolved in Jan’s favour and he is determined to push the project forward to completion.
