The new Leeu Collection is set to open two boutique luxury properties later this year in South Africa.
Indian investor Analjit Singh plans to open Leeu House and Leeu Estates in the Western Cape winelands, not far from Cape Town. Hector de Galard has been overseeing the local investments on behalf of Singh as president of business operations for Max Ventures, Leeu Collection’s parent company. De Galard has opened luxury resorts around the world for brands including Amanresorts, CampbellGray Hotels and the One&Only group. Matthew Smith, whose background includes running Sol Kerzner’s private property as well as experience at Ellerman House in Cape Town, will serve as general manager of the two Leeu properties.
The 12-room Leeu House is scheduled to open in the last quarter of this year on the main road in Franschhoek, South Africa. Designed to feel like a country guesthouse, the property’s interiors promise a contemporary take on the traditional Cape Dutch heritage with a nod to the French Huguenot architectural style. Leeu House also will feature The Conservatory, The Terrace, The Lounge and gardens with a heated outdoor pool. Guests will also have access to the spa facilities and grounds of Leeu Estates via a complimentary shuttle service.
The 20-room Leeu Estates is expected to open shortly after Leeu House among 68 hectares (168 acres) of vineyards, gardens and indigenous vegetation in the valley of Franschhoek. The heart of the property will be a refurbished, 19th-century house with six suites as well as The Library, The Living Room, The Dining Room and Garden Terrace public areas. The other 14 guestrooms will be located in cottages throughout the gardens. The property also will include a tasting room as well as the Amala Spa with a heated infinity pool and fitness center.
Although no additional deals for Leeu Collection have been signed yet, Singh does plan to expand it and is looking for sites in the U.S. and U.K.