Lodges
Leeu Estates
Enjoy life's finer side amidst the stunning vineyards of the Cape Winelands
Leeu Estates
The newly founded Leeu Collection is taking the Winelands by storm, and we can see why. Inside the walls of Leeu Estates, just outside Franschhoek, you'll find decadent accommodation in a selection of pretty cottages and elegant houses, top-notch fine-dining and an impressive art collection, all surrounded by stunning gardens and overlooked by the towering Dassenberg Mountains. And that's not all - there's an award-winning spa, heated infinity pool and contemporary wine tasting studio and, if you can drag yourself away, complimentary transfers into nearby Franschhoek village. We can't think of much else that would make it better...
At the lodge
The hotel
The communal areas of the hotel include the heated infinity pool, a good gym, and a spa that offers a full range of dreamy treatments. In the renovated 19th Century Manor House, you'll find the restaurant and the well-stocked library, perfect for snuggling into on a cold evening. Wander across the vineyards or the beautifully manicured gardens - dotted with bronze sculptures and a small resident herd of bokkies (antelope) - to the winery, the wine studio and the cellar, which look out over the farm's dam.
The rooms
You've got a few options when it comes to accommodation, with the smallest bedroom being a palatial 42m²! There's the one bedroom, totally romantic Pomegranate Cottage, three bed Max House, and six individual bedrooms in the Manor House (two within rolling distance of the spa). All exude elegance and style, with chic colour palettes, softer than soft carpets, and marble bathrooms with enormous rain showers and underfloor heating. The executive suite has its own lounge/study area and fireplace, while the cottages have private terraces, lounges and courtyards with private gardens.
On safari
Experiences
Leeu Estate sits at the base of Dassenberg Mountain with the Franschoek River running through it. There are various nature trails that wind their way through the vineyards, along the river and on to the mountain that are perfect for hiking, jogging or cycling (the hotel provides mountain bikes for free). But chances are, you came here for the wine and cuisine, so you won't be disappointed to know that there are over fifty wine farms and nearly as many restaurants in the Franschoek Valley. The village is just a fifteen-minute walk away, and you'll find a variety of interesting attractions from art galleries to the Franschhoek Monument on the way.