The Royal Portfolio is a handpicked selection of high-end hotels offering a sense of exquisite exclusivity. Catering for an international market seeking hotels and lodges of a superior standard, the Royal Portfolio certainly sets the benchmark in terms of elite destinations. This intimate collection is a portfolio of private residences, hotels and safari lodges located in sought-after tourist destinations. For those with an extended budget, and want the best-of-the-best, the Royal Portfolio is a must. The Royal Portfolio is a family-run business, and although its properties are upmarket, the ethos of familiar comfort is a primary focus. Royal Portfolio is about the luxury, the familiar and the experience.
Each destination is in a must-visit area in South Africa. One of our consultants will happily combine an itinerary with a stay at the below properties, offering you a quintessential “South African” experience exploring the Cape Winelands, whale watching town of Hermanus, Kruger bushveld experience and the buzzing Cape Town.
Let’s take a peek inside their staggeringly elite hideaways.
Royal Malewane in the Kruger’s Thornybush Private Game Reserve
The Thornybush Private Game Reserve is a big 5 reserve forming part of the Greater Kruger region. Royal Malewane is a luxury safari lodge in the heart of the reserve and was recently nominated as one of the best 50 resorts in the world by Condé Nast Traveler. This classic safari lodge exudes a traditional safari feel combined with a modern take on decor. It’s understated and classy; provides that much-needed slice of luxury combined with the adventurous safari lifestyle.
Game drives are led by highly qualified guides and trackers; take place twice a day during the periods of time when predators are most active. During your downtime between game drives, we encourage you to indulge in a spa treatment or simply soak up the bushveld atmosphere.
In terms of accommodation, there are six luxury suites, two “Royal” suites that come complete with two bedrooms. Then there is the Africa House, which is an exclusive use villa.
Birkenhead House in the Whale Watching Town of Hermanus
The Birkenhead House is a stately coastal home overlooking the expansive sea and cascading cliffs of Walker Bay in Hermanus. Hermanus is a bustling seaside village that enjoys hordes of visitors during “whale season”, which is the time of year when the southern right whales return to ancient breeding areas. Walker Bay is one of these destinations, and is a short drive from Cape Town, making it a popular add-on to a holiday in Cape Town.
The Birkenhead sets the standard in terms of luxury destinations in Hermanus. The decor is contemporary coupled with tasteful beach-house decor. There are 11 individually decorated rooms, each with a bright and energetic feel. The Birkenhead House has a few different room types; they include the Deluxe Superior, Superior, Luxury and Standard. There is a deck overlooking the beach and it houses a swimming pool. Take some time out and relax on a sun lounger at the pool, or spend time enjoying a well-deserved spa treatment.
If you’d like to explore the immediate area, we recommend walking along the coastline to try and spot whales. Alternatively, you might want to enjoy a whale watching cruise, or try your hand at kayaking.
La Residence in Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands
Franschhoek is framed by mountain ranges carpeted with vineyards and is heavily influenced by its French heritage. Franschhoek is the foodie capital of the Cape Winelands and is home to a number of award-winning wine farms.
La Residence is an opulent place located in a remote area at the foot of the mountains and is cocooned by plum orchards and vineyards. This royal residence offers unsurpassed views of both mountain and countryside.
This place is fit for royalty and is certainly grand in its layout and design. There’s a huge hall area with massive chandeliers dripping down over the open area dotted with antiques from across the globe. The decor is completely plush, yet sophisticated. We’re talking top of the range ball-and-claw baths, Victorian style bathrooms and splashes of Oriental influences throughout. La Residence has 11 suites ideal for couples and five Vineyard suites fit to accommodate small groups and families travelling together.
The Silo and the One Above in Cape Town
The Silo and the One Above offer two completely different types of luxury accommodation in the VA Waterfront area.
The Silo has made the Conde Nast “Hot List” for 2018. It’s a new hotel towering over the popular VA Waterfront yacht basin and is ideal for guests seeking a modern, designer five-star hotel. The building used to be a grain silo complex but is now a five-star hotel occupying 6 floors above an art museum called Zeitz MOCAA. This museum is home to African art and happens to be Africa’s largest collection of modern art. The art them trickles over into the hotel, and guests can expect a completely contemporary designer hotel experience. There are 28 rooms, with 6 room categories and a 1 bedroomed penthouse.
When you’re not exploring the VA Waterfront, head to the Silo’s rooftop bar and restaurant for a complete culinary journey. The Silo Hotel has modern lounge style bars, cafes serving high tea and restaurants offering fine dining experiences. When you’re not eating, exploring and adventuring; we suggest you book that spa treatment on the Silo’s fourth floor. There are five treatments room available!
The Silo is for the art and culture funds from around the world.
The One Above offers a contrasting type of hotel to the Silo but is equally as luxurious. The One Above is actually an exclusive penthouse set in the heart of the VA Waterfront. The views of the yacht basin, Table Mountain and the city are exceptional. The Penthouse offers its guests 3 rooms and a master bedroom. This is a completely exclusive and private experience, just perfect for the discerning guest.
