On September 1, a new and exciting era will dawn at one of the world’s most romantic places to stay, when the new owners, Analjit Singh of Leeu Collection and his family, take over the boutique hotel, Le Quartier Français in Franschhoek, situated in the Cape Winelands, South Africa, from Susan Huxter and her family.
“With Analjit’s introduction of new offerings and exciting luxury lifestyle contributions to Franschhoek, I feel confident and happy that he and his family are the right people to take Le Quartier Français to the next level,” said previous iconic owner Susan Huxter, who has offered to work hand-in-hand with the new owners to achieve a smooth transfer.
“Le Quartier Français has always been about family. It is a very special place, full of soul, happiness and, above all else, wonderful people,” she said. “Among us all, with two generations working here, we have 924 years of service . It is the people who make Le Quartier Français the special place it is. I feel it is the right time to pass on this sanctuary to a new family, who will love and treasure it. I also believe that an exciting time lies ahead for the Le Quartier Français team. I shall be watching from around the corner to see them take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to grow and spread their wings .”
Award-winning Executive Chef, Margot Janse, will also see to it that the magic continues at The Tasting Room with her cutting-edge cuisine. She, along with the rest of the Le Quartier Français team, will make sure that the exceptional service and experiences continue to charm guests from around the world.
This latest acquisition forms part of Leeu Collection, the manifestation of owner Analjit Singh (aka BAS)’s vision for sophisticated escapes and unique wineland experiences. In the first phase, this comprises Leeu Estates, a 21-room, five-star, luxurious boutique hotel and winery in the Franschhoek valley and Leeu House, an exclusive and private five-star, 12-room boutique hotel in the heart of the Franschhoek village, set for a phased opening from the last quarter of 2015.
According to BAS, the respected Le Quartier Français brand will be kept as is for the present. Only changes such as soft refurbishments and landscaping developments will be introduced. Further additions and alterations will be considered in 2016.
“I am passionate about South Africa, its energy and sense of place,” says Singh. Leeu means lion in Afrikaans as does Singh in Sanskrit. “This latest acquisition makes me excited because I love to be part of creating something special. The team involved in the Leeu Collection portfolio, headed by Hector de Galard, shares this excitement and is determined to create world-class experiences in a luxurious environment, of which Le Quartier Français will form a part. This opportunity is a natural for us,” he said.
For further information, please contact Nicolette Waterford of Waterford Communications on +27 (0)82 807 4447 or email nicolette.waterford@leeucollection.com.
