Overview
Wellness and wine
Between the mountains and a river in the stunning Franschhoek Valley, Leeu Estates sits surrounded by 68 hectares of working vineyards, landscaped gardens and fynbos.
23 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites are found in the meticulously refurbished 19th-century Manor House and in spacious cottages close by. Each one features carefully curated art- works and sculptures from various around the world, luxurious touches and superbly equipped marble bathrooms. Many have their own terraces and fireplaces, and all enjoy idyllic vineyard and mountain views.
The estate hosts a collection of celebrated foodie venues, from the relaxed Protégé and Conservatory, to the fine dining at Épice and La Petite Colombe, as well as an architectural marvel of a spa and wine studio.
Facts
At a glance
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23 rooms and suites
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Mullineux wine studio
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World class dining venues
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Swimming pool and spa
Experiences
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Leeu Spa
Tucked among the vineyards at Leeu Estates, this spa offers you holistic treatments and massages inspired by Africa’s rich heritage and traditions. There are also treatments available for children aged six to 12.
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The Wine Studio
Run by the Mullineux and Leeu team, you can enjoy an immersive wine experience at the Wine Studio at Leeu Estates. The knowledgeable tasting room team will guide you through some of the finer nuances of a variety of handcrafted wines. Each in-house guest at Leeu House is offered a complimentary tasting during their stay.
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Explore Franschhoek
There is so much to do in this beautiful valley, so make use of the complimentary bicycles at Leeu House and go exploring. You can hope on the Franschhoek Wine Tram, go hiking in Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve, visit the Franschhoek Motor Museum, see the Huguenot Monument or simply enjoy strolling around the village.
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Afternoon tea at Leeu Estates
Afternoon tea at the nearby Leeu Estates is a lovely experience not to be missed. Enjoy the afternoon and take a wander around the gardens and admire the art collection.
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Garden and art tours at Leeu Estates
Spending a few hours discovering the artworks tucked away in the landscaped gardens, vineyards and fynbos at Leeu Estates is a rewarding use of your time. Take a guided tour of the gardens and enjoy your time connecting with art and nature, surround by gorgeous views.
Community & Culture
Leeu Collection is passionate about giving back to the community through education. The Leeu Learning Centre at the Franschhoek Valley Community Sport Centre gives children the opportunity to access free quality online education. They also offer academic support with subject specific tutors. The hospitality portfolio also supports the Franschhoek-based Kusasa Project Early Learning Centre.
Conservation
Leeu Collection currently recycles around 95% of its waste. Pest control is organic, and the vineyards are kept pest-free by releasing natural predatory insects. The use of organic fertilisers and pesticides is encouraged. Planting patterns were planned with water conservation in mind and more water-wise plants are being introduced. The water supply at Leeu House is supplemented by borehole water.
Footprint
The vegetable gardens which supply Leeu Collection’s restaurants and hotels are completely organic. And vegetables that are bought are sourced from farms in and around Franschhoek where possible. Bamboo straws are available in place of plastic straws, and only glass bottles are used for mineral water and some toiletries. Irrigation is done at night so that less evaporation can happen. In-house laundry is water and energy efficient and non-biological laundry powder is used. At Leeu House the main building has a thatch roof covering, and ceiling insulation has been added to all buildings.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.