Grande Provence Estate wears her 300-year history with dignity. Sitting in the magnificent Franschhoek Valley in South Africa’s Western Cape, her lush vines spread across 30 hectares with gentle vistas over the valley floor, at odds almost with the rugged mountains beyond. This is heartland South African wine country.

Capturing the essence of the heritage of this gracious Estate, are Grande Provence’s new owners and design team.

The honest simplicity of its Cape Dutch architecture, in harmony with the precision and clarity of modern design, brings a new pièce de résistance to the Franschhoek valley.

Framing the entry road are rows of vineyards, heavy with the promise of next year’s vintage. Here, one bears witness to the duality of old and new settling into an elegant co-existence: old trees take root amongst the 300-year old oaks and manicured hedges blend with the free form of the natural surroundings to create a landscaped Eden. Gracefully governing the setting is the 18th Century Manor House, while The Owner’s Cottage welcomes guests to boutique accommodation. Five sumptuous rooms provide a quiet and intimate repose; the tranquility of the lake provides a restful escape for the soul.

The Owner’s Cottage at Grande Provence is a testament to period grandeur and contemporary luxury. Comprising the beautifully appointed Cottage are four rooms, a deluxe suite, conservatory, lounge, swimming and spa pool area.

Blanketed in a palette of ‘charcoal grey’ and ‘white linen’, the rooms beckon an indulgent experience. “Even though the rooms are homely, they also house discreet technology,” says Virginia Fisher, New Zealand-based interior designer.

"Lush lawns edged with dark green hedges contrast with creamy travertine tiles and inset pebbles, while white walls delineate the deck chairs and lounging areas, juxtaposing the cool and crisp swimming pool. The spa pool punctuates the landscape with a stunning, elevated view of the surrounds. Harmony permeates every angle."

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