Le Quartier Français
Franschhoek & The Winelands
Le Quartier Français is the quirky sister to the Leeu Collection’s Leeu House and Leeu Estates and is its most recent addition. Just a few doors down from Leeu House on Franschhoek’s pretty high street, Le Quartier Français has a similar town house vibe but is centred around a courtyard and its interiors pay due diligence to its former owner. The rooms are peppered with splashes of bright colour - think geometric wallpaper, crushed velvet armchairs and paisley cushions against a backdrop of French sophistication. It has a romantic and charming feel to it and is the perfect place for couples or honeymooners who want to be in the centre of Franschhoek but retain a level of privacy.
The Pool and House Suites are well catered for families and those seeking exclusivity, as they both have their own private pools. Most of the entry level rooms are on the upstairs level of the courtyard whilst the Suites are on the garden level. The Petite Garden Suite is very luxurious with a walk-in shower, palatial bathtub and its own garden, and the House Suite is illuminated with natural light from the garden and its neutral tones impose a calming effect on each inhabitant.
Le Quartier Français shares a home with the Franschhoek branch of Le Petit Colombe restaurant, the revered restaurant which is sister to the award-winning La Colombe Restaurant in Constantia. Both guests and non-residents can dine here, and we recommend reserving a table in advance as it’s incredibly popular, and for good reason! For those who desire a more relaxed eatery, Protégé which is part of Le Quartier Français has an open kitchen and diners can choose to sit alfresco. It serves up a fusion of European and Asian cuisine and the menu includes small sharing plates for a more informal experience. Adjacent to Le Quartier Français is the sixth Everard Read Gallery in South Africa, it is widely considered to be one of the best galleries showing contemporary art by southern African artists. Complimentary transfers are available to take guests to the big sister property, Leeu Estate to use the property’s joint spa.
Being located in the centre of Franschhoek means that a stay here allows guests to head out into the village and puruse amongst the rows of jewellers, art galleries and boutiques. Hiking is also very popular in the Winelands and the Mont Rochelle hiking trails can be tackled any time of day and provide excellent views into the Franschhoek valley. The Wine Tram is also a fun way to spend the afternoon as the half-bus half-tram takes you through some of the area’s wineries and you can hop on and off and sample some of South Africa’s finest!
Travel and change of place impart new vigor to the mind.
Seneca