Cape Town Hotels|Franschhoek, South Africa

Leeu Estates

Name: Leeu Estates
Telephone: 27-0-21-492-2222

Winelands luxury in a Franschhoek estate

VERIFIED LUXURY

Learn How We Inspect

South Africa’s Winelands town of Franschhoek merits every bit of the attention it receives: set against a backdrop of majestic Cape mountains, it’s arguably the center of gastronomy in the country and boasts some of the finest wine estates. Furthermore, Franschhoek is home to Leeu Estates, a jewel among the area’s hotels.

Nestled on acres of prime mountainside estate less than a mile from town, Leeu Estates is a 24-room country house and boutique winery that embodies luxury, privacy and intuitive service. The two sister properties (Leeu House and Le Quartier Français) in town continue the Franschhoek experience — that is, if guests choose not to cocoon themselves in the lavish sanctuary this Winelands retreat provides.

With exceptional food, wine and wellness offerings, Leeu Estates stands as a celebration of Franschhoek’s provenance, inviting well-deserved reflection and tranquillity. All this is a testament to founder Analjit Singh’s pioneering and visionary spirit.

Our Inspector's Highlights

At this boutique winery, a popular first stroll is to The Wine Studio for tastings of the Mullineux Signature, Mullineux Single Terroir and Leeu Passant ranges, with fruit sourced both locally and from the Swartland region. In town, The Wine Boutique introduces guests to Great Heart Wines — a heart-warming, 100% staff-owned and -run empowerment project.
Continuing the theme of escape and tranquillity, Leeu Spa by Healing Earth curates treatments that incorporate Africa’s rich heritage and traditional rituals, utilizing local minerals, flowers, herbs and natural oils. The signature vinotherapy treatment features the proudly South African Pinotage grape. Saunas, steam rooms, a plunge pool, a 49-foot infinity pool and relaxation areas with dining options enhance the experience.
The property spans an impressive 168 acres, providing guests the opportunity to explore nearly endless manicured gardens. Of particular interest are the Bokkie Garden, a meditative green space, and Four Quarter Vineyards, showcasing selected varieties grown on the estate.
Home is where the art is, as visitors will discover through the extensive collection of paintings and sculptures from South African artists like Angus Taylor and Deborah Bell gracing the property. The onsite gallery focuses on larger pieces and is complemented by the Everard Gallery in town. Look out for the artist-in-residence program featuring locally created works.
Enjoy a meal in the Manor House’s Dining Room, which serves seasonal, local cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner, or indulge in a tasting menu at the estate’s excellent Le Petit Colombe. In the village, the culinary options continue with the two sister restaurants, Épice and Protégé.

The Rooms

Each of the 24 rooms features custom furniture and layers of linen, horsehair, leather, wood and stone in serene colors. Underfloor heating and generous marble-clad bathrooms with rain showers and heated towel rails are standard.
The suites start at an impressive 1,011 square feet, with separate lounge areas, remote-operated fireplaces and stunning views. Several offer terraces leading out into the gardens.
Seven cottages provide additional privacy and space, ranging from two to three bedrooms, with some providing pools or hot tubs. Favorites include Fynbosch, Cellar, Max and Protea, all showcasing traditional Cape Dutch-style architecture.

Amenities