Following the South African government’s decision to allow international travel to return to Cape Town International Airport, Leeu Collection (https://leeucollection.com/) is to re-open its Cape Wineland properties (which have been closed since March due to the Covid-19 pandemic) in phases, following some impressive upgrades and renovations, many of which make it easier for guests to socially distance.
Leeu Collection founder Analjit Singh spent lockdown in Franschhoek and it provided him with an opportunity to see the hotels with a fresh eye, resulting in changes that have taken the properties to the next level and will further amplify the guest experience going forward. For example, daily walks around the Leeu Estates grounds led to Mr Singh pinpointing the very best places to create dedicated outdoor seating, landscaping and picnic areas (beside the river and in the Bokkie Garden). This will enhance the guest experience by accommodating dining al fresco in seclusion.
Leeu Estates, the amalgamation of four farms, is now complete. Sites were identified for olive groves (and nearly 900 trees planted), orchards and a herb garden to reduce field to fork miles and ensure organic local produce for all the hotel’s restaurants. The overall acreage under vineyards was also doubled, ensuring that a truly immersive winelands experience awaits guests.
Additionally, having made a conscious decision several years ago to focus on creating exceptional experiences for its guests by partnering with the best in class in the fields of wine-making, artistic endeavor, and dining out, Leeu Collection has now reached an agreement with a world-class South African spa brand to manage Leeu Spa. Healing Earth specialises in the creation of memorable, multi-sensory spa and wellbeing experiences, as well as unique and fully immersive holistic packages that go far beyond outer beauty to facilitate a harmonious connection between mind and body, so that Leeu guests can enjoy ultimate relaxation during their stay.
The rooms at all three properties have been renovated and upgraded, as well as six new rooms and cottages created on Leeu Estates. The terrace at the Manor House on the Estates has also been extended into an expansive wooden deck, to give guests more space to enjoy the panoramic views of the Franschhoek Valley; and two helipads have been built at Leeu Estates for fast, secluded transfers from Cape Town. Last but not least, the gardens at Le Quartier Français have been re-done, creating beautiful spaces to unwind, relax, and enjoy true South African hospitality.
The romantic auberge Le Quartier Français will re-open first, on 15th October, with Leeu House (just a couple of doors away in the heart of Franschhoek) taking bookings the following week, from 23rd October. Leeu Collection’s third property, the flagship Leeu Estates on the outskirts of Franschhoek, will re-open its rooms to guests on 4th December. However, elements of the Estates, such as the Leeu Spa by Healing Earth, the Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines Tasting Studio and the restaurant Le Petite Colombe will open earlier, on 6th November, for day visitors.
