La Residence

Nestled amidst the vineyards, olive groves and lavender fields of Franschhoek, this intimate retreat – originally designed to be the owner’s private home – is reminiscent of a grand French Country Chateau. Owner, Liz Biden, has received worldwide acclaim for her superb and visionary transformation of this former 5-bedroom hideaway into a stunning opulent retreat – and not surprisingly, it lives up to the impeccable standards of her two other award-winning properties – Birkenhead House and Royal Malewane.

Yet despite its well-followed fame, Liz has ‘even bigger plans’ for 2007 – La Residence is ‘literally’ to be relocated to an exclusive 30 acre wine farm – a mere 500 metres from where it currently stands! Its renowned regal ambience and refreshingly stylish interior will naturally remain the same – but the ‘soon-to-be-moved’ La Residence will unquestionably benefit from the improved privacy and seclusion of its new and even more enchanting setting.

Cloaked in a treasure trove of beautiful tapestries, carefully chosen antiques, Persian carpets and toile printed fabrics, the house is – and will continue to be – filled with special pieces which Liz has discovered on her travels. In addition to the lavishly comfortable living and dining areas, the new estate will house ten ultra-luxurious suites, a private courtyard pool and a spa set against the breathtaking mountainous backdrop. Managed and run by Len and Johan – who have developed a unique and acute synergy over the past 16 years of working together – the service at La Residence is impressively smooth, effortless and discreet.

The much-anticipated ‘new’ La Residence is scheduled to open its doors in mid 2007.

PRICES Prices from £162 per person per night twin share in a Suite including breakfast, evening canapés, cocktails and soft drinks. All-inclusive prices are also available. Flights from the UK from £589 (including £120 tax) with South African Airways