Nestled on the pulsating V&A Waterfront, Cape Town’s most cherished hotel, Cape Grace, under the new stewardship of Fairmont, has redefined luxury with its magnificent makeover. This May 2024, after an extensive nine-month renovation, the hotel welcomes visitors to experience a blend of South Africa’s rich heritage and contemporary elegance.
The transformative redesign, executed by the esteemed 1508 London, pays tribute to Cape Town’s historical evolution from a vibrant trading port to a modern cultural hub. The hotel’s interiors, a sophisticated tapestry of local narratives, celebrate the nation’s diverse landscapes, languages, art, and cultures. Each of the 112 redesigned rooms offers breathtaking views of the Waterfront or the iconic Table Mountain, with thoughtful touches that harmonize with the region’s natural beauty. The renovation extends to the new Fairmont Spa and a culinary vision spearheaded by the acclaimed Gregory Czarnecki, making Cape Grace a hotel and a gateway to explore the best of South Africa.
Cape Grace begins a new chapter, unveiling its design transformation under Fairmont’s new management.
Since its original launch in 1996, Cape Grace has set the benchmark for hospitality, attracting political figures, celebrities, and business leaders. The hotel’s renewed commitment to luxury and service promises to enhance its legacy, offering guests unparalleled experiences at the crossroads of tradition and innovation.
Elevating African Wilderness: Singita’s Pioneering Conservation Efforts
Singita has been at the forefront of African tourism and conservation for three decades. The family-owned brand extends its passion for wilderness preservation through its 16 award-winning lodges and camps across six regions, including the iconic Kruger National Park and the majestic Virunga Mountains.
April 2024 marks a significant milestone as Singita reopens its founding lodge, Singita Ebony, in the Sabi Sand Reserve. The lodge debuts a bold new design by Cecile & Boyd, integrating the flowing lines of Adobe architecture with the lodge’s heritage. This redesign enhances the guest experience and deepens the connection with the African landscape.
Adding to its innovative offerings, Singita will introduce Wagora MTB Ride in October 2024. This thrilling mountain biking event traverses the vast Singita Grumeti Reserve in Tanzania, offering participants a unique blend of adventure and luxury while supporting anti-poaching efforts through the Grumeti Fund.
Singita has been a leading light in African tourism and conservation.
The Essence of Remote Luxury: Time + Tide’s Unique Safari Experiences
Time + Tide, a family-owned enterprise, continues to pioneer luxury safaris in Zambia and offers an exclusive retreat on a private island in Madagascar. The brand, building on the legacy of Norman Carr, founder of the walking safari, embraces a profound commitment to conservation and community engagement.
Early this season, Time + Tide Chongwe opens in Zambia, offering guests a fusion of adventure and serenity at the convergence of the Chongwe and Zambezi Rivers. The property’s distinctive design and luxury accommodations provide an intimate connection with nature, supported by sustainable practices and deep respect for the local wildlife and culture.
In Madagascar, Time + Tide Miavana introduces a new helicopter excursion. Guests can explore a hidden forest of baobabs, offering an unparalleled view of this rare ecosystem and a deeper appreciation of the island’s natural beauty.
Time + Tide’s family-owned properties are pioneers in luxury safaris in Zambia and an exclusive island escape in Madagascar.
Kenya’s Premier Safari Experience: The Safari Collection’s Cultural and Conservation Initiatives
The Safari Collection in Kenya, known for its exquisite lodges and personalized itineraries, is expanding its commitment to cultural engagement and conservation. The newly opened 4C Centre at Sasaab Lodge offers guests insights into Samburu’s rich heritage and the region’s biodiversity, reinforcing the connection between tourism, conservation, and community support.
Furthermore, in collaboration with the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, The Safari Collection has launched a unique itinerary that provides an up-close encounter with different giraffe species facilitated by world-renowned conservationists. This initiative highlights the critical role of conservation in tourism and offers guests a transformative experience.
The Safari Collection offers an exceptional circuit, incorporating the country’s best topographical, wildlife and cultural experiences.
Revitalizing Heritage: Babylonstoren’s Farm-to-Fork Philosophy
Babylonstoren, one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms, continues to enchant guests with its historic charm and modern luxury blend in the heart of the Cape Winelands. The farm recently introduced new Fynbos Cottages, enhancing its accommodation offerings and providing guests with a serene retreat surrounded by nature. The estate’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its farm-to-fork dining experiences, where every meal is a testament to the quality and simplicity of locally sourced ingredients.
In addition to its luxurious accommodations and culinary delights, Babylonstoren offers unique experiences such as the Water Buffalo Tour, connecting guests with the farm’s sustainable practices and allowing them to engage with the local fauna in a meaningful way.
One of the oldest Cape Dutch farms, set at the foot of Simonsberg in the Franschhoek wine valley.
Conclusion
The transformation of these iconic African properties redefines luxury travel and reinforces the vital link between conservation, community, and cultural appreciation. These developments promise to offer guests unparalleled experiences that are as enriching as they are breathtaking, setting new standards in luxury and sustainability in the travel industry.
Written by: Bridget Gomez
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