Leeu Estates Opens in the Breathtaking Franschhoek Valley

Located between the mountainside and river with spectacular views of the Franschhoek valley, this unique property sits on over 168 acres of vineyards, landscaped gardens, and fynbos (indigenous vegetation) and is the ideal setting for an elegant and sophisticated private hideaway. Leeu Estates has remained true to the pillars of the Leeu brand, namely inspiring art collections, unique architecture and sophisticated design; manicured and detailed landscaping which reflects respect for the environment; superlative service with attention to the smallest detail; and an award-winning wine portfolio.

It all started as a personal journey for Leeu Estates' founder Analjit Singh (aka BAS), an international investor of Indian origin. Captivated by the Western Cape's exceptional beauty and vibrant energy during a trip to South Africa for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, he decided to buy a family home in the Franschhoek valley. The idea of a family home, however, soon transformed into what it is today – three historic farms joined together to create a world-class hospitality and winemaking destination.

At the center of this working wine farm is the meticulously refurbished 19th-century Manor House offering superb comfort, fine dining and platinum-level service. The contemporary classic and individually styled rooms and suites are filled with customized architectural detailing and tactile textures in a calm color scheme. Each one features carefully curated artwork and sculptures from various countries, luxurious extras and superbly equipped marble bathrooms. Many have their own terraces and fireplaces, and all enjoy idyllic vineyard and mountain views.

Another attraction at this prestigious destination is Leeu Spa, a wellness sanctuary offering expert massages and holistic treatments inspired by centuries-old Asian traditions. Using wild-harvested organic ingredients from remote, untainted regions such as the Amazon rain forest and the Himalayas, the hand-blended product range utilized in the treatments harnesses natural healing energy. A spacious gym, equipped with the latest generation of fitness machines, offers framed views of the majestic mountains. A membership program that would make the facilities accessible to non-resident guests is also currently in the works.

Leeu Estates offers delicious, innovative cuisine prepared by the culinary team led by resident executive chef Oliver Cattermole. At Leeu Estates, meals along with South African vintages from Leeu Collection's wine cellar are served in The Dining Room or al fresco on The Garden Terrace, which seats up to 40 people. Outside visitors are welcome to make dining reservations. The Reading Room, with its wide selection of reading material, comfortable seating, open wood-burning fireplace, and views of the vineyards and gardens, makes a welcome reprieve for guests wishing to enjoy some quiet time.

The Wine Studio offers guests handcrafted premium wines from the award-winning Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines.

Indaba, which means discussion or meeting in Zulu, is a well-appointed conference facility on Leeu Estates that boasts lovely mountain, valley and vineyard views and offers the perfect venue for business and board meetings, as well as bespoke conferences and small events.

The Bokkie Garden, an expression of love and very close to the owner, BAS', heart, is highly unique with its herd of small buck (bokkie is the Afrikaans word for small buck) and has been planted with grasses and hedges that bokkies love to eat. ‘Reflective Resonance', a powerful piece of art in bronze and Belfast granite by acclaimed sculptor Angus Taylor, sits in the Bokkie Garden and is set to become a Franschhoek landmark.

The team of professionals behind the architecture, interiors and gardens at Leeu Estates includes Spanish architect Tomeu Esteva, Graham Goosen and Johan Malherbe, interior designer Beverley Boswell and landscape designer Franschesca Watson. Hector de Galard, Managing Director of Leeu Collection, has been overseeing the project. A highly experienced hotelier with a passion for detail, he has opened no less than seven luxury resorts around the world, including properties in Mauritius, Mexico and Morocco.

Says Area General Manager of Leeu Collection, Matthew Smith, “With quality service, a hallmark of everything we do at Leeu Collection, the team at Leeu Estates is prepared to deliver just the best, because that is what defines us.”

Leeu Estates has a mantra of attention to detail. This is applied to every aspect, from cuisine and décor to service. An attitude that nothing is too much trouble is deeply ingrained in every staff member. Service is intuitive in an elegantly refined yet relaxed environment.

“I am extremely pleased to see this dream of mine turning into a reality,” says Leeu Collection's founder, BAS. “At last guests from all over the globe can now enjoy the Leeu touch and have unforgettable experiences in a superb setting. This place is close to my heart and I am truly happy to share the beauty it offers with others.”

This substantial investment into tourism and winemaking by Mr. Singh is welcomed by Wesgro CEO Tim Harris. “This venture shows great confidence in our province and its ability to attract investment, visitors and our ability to deliver world-class wine and experiences,” he said. “We wish the Leeu Collection and BAS all the best with the launch."

Wesgro is the official tourism, trade and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape.

Room rates at Leeu Estates start from ZAR 7500 (approximately USD 563) for two people sharing a classic room and include breakfast, unlimited internet access and national phone calls, a complimentary tasting of Mullineux & Leeu wines per guest per stay, and all taxes.

For reservations or more information, email reservations@leeucollection.com or call +27-21-492-2222.