Deals of the day
Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery
In search for unique places, sometimes you need to get off the main roads. However, let them lead you to Bale, Istria. Then slow down and follow the road that gets narrower with every mile, as nature draws closer. Slow down even more, and then make a turn into the white road. As the iron gates of the Meneghetti estate open up in front of you, stop for just one moment – and realize that the magic actually appears off the…
Boutique Hotel Die Alpbacherin
The history of DER ALPBACHERIN began in the former Angelika house. Some time ago, in the middle of Alpbach, at house number 405, stood the small bed and breakfast “Haus Angelika”. Georg and Lisa ran them with a lot of love. The success proved you right and so the desire for a new place for more guests was born. A dream came true. Together with daughter Valentina and her boyfriend Thomas, plans, dreams and…
Villa Belvedere Taormina
Hotel Villa Belvedere is a delightful and charming boutique hotel, located at just a few minutes from Taormina’s lively town centre and from the world-famous Greek-Roman Theatre, which are both reachable by walking through the inspiring and panoramic Duca di Cesarò Botanic Gardens. The hotel benefits of wonderful views over the sea, the bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The hotel has always been…
Cocos Hotel Antigua
Perched on a lush green hillside, encircled by miles of heavenly blue sea and sandwiched between two gorgeous white sand beaches is COCOS Hotel, an all inclusive Antigua resort for couples and adults only. This rustic yet romantic and cozy boutique resort is located on the sunset side of the beautiful Caribbean Island of Antigua and comprises of a collection of 35 quaint wooden Cottages positioned on a pictoresque…
Villa Principe Leopoldo Lugano
Live in a fairy tale, surrounded by prestige and nature. Imagine contemplating Lugano’s beauty in a princely residence. The former private home of German Emperor Wilhelm’s brother in law, the Villa is located on a picturesque promontory called the Collina d’Oro (Golden Hill), whose views and location are the best kept secret in town. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live in a legendary home, a stay…
Casa Casuarina Miami
Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 by Alden Freeman. Alden Freeman’s father, Joel Freeman was Treasurer of The Standard Oil Trust (also known as Rockefeller’s Company) and left Alden a fabulous wealth when he passed away. That gave the young and wealthy Alden the opportunity to retire at the age of 27 from being an architect and travel all over the world. Alden was also a descendent of the Mayflower on his mother’s side…
Piccolo Hotel Portofino
Hotel Piccolo Portofino, surrounded by the typical luxuriant vegetation of the Liguria Riviera, among the crystal clear water of Portofino and the blue sky, is a piece of art of the reception, unique of its kind. A hidden jewel, that has to be searched end discovered. Obtained from a refined period villa, today it is a boutique hotel, and from its generous terraces, a breathtaking view onto this exclusive stretch of coast…
Kudadoo Private Island
Kudadoo’s renowned eco-consciousness and sleek design extend to the Maldives island’s 15 over-water residences where your uninterrupted enjoyment of the private island charm and the splendid natural surrounds are the norm….
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris, a 5-star hotel in the centre of Paris, offers you a unique stay in a typically Parisian atmosphere. The building was built in 1907 by the Hennessy family, during the enchanting interlude offered by the Paris of the “Belle Époque”. Reflecting this magical era, our luxury hotel in Paris embodies a certain French art de vivre. La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris enjoys an idyllic setting and immerses you in the…
Château de La Chèvre d’Or
Nature is everywhere at Château de la Chèvre d’Or. There are lots of different gardens filled with sculptures, fountains, waterfalls, flowers, herbs, trees and shrubs. The area is perfumed with the scents of jasmine, bougainvillea and roses. The magnificent colors create a framework that blends into the horizon and the sea…
Il San Pietro Di Positano
The San Pietro di Positano is more than a hotel. It is a journey within a journey, where memories are created and never forgotten. A haven of peace, immersed in nature, this elegant home harmonises old-world traditions of hospitality with contemporary, understated luxury. Escape to this small slice of paradise suspended between the sea and sky. Carved into the cliff overlooking the mediterranean Sea, our rooms are a…
Aria Hotel Budapest
The Aria Hotel Budapest is a luxury boutique hotel with an exquisite design inspired by music. To compliment the musical concept, master designer Zoltan Varro’s vision was to simultaneously recreate the rich, lavish atmosphere of a historic Hungarian palace while also embracing visitors in the warmth and comfort of a private residence…
Juma Amazon Lodge
With its prime location in one of the most remote and preserved regions of the Amazon Rainforest, Juma Amazon Lodge is an intimate and inviting property harmoniously nestled into the forest environment which defines it. Juma Amazon Lodge features 19 intimate bungalows seamlessly nestled into the lush surroundings of the Amazon Rainforest. In order to accommodate the water levels of the wet season…
Palazzo Navona Rome
The innovative Palazzo Navona Hotel fully deserved of its role as being amongst one of the most qualified 4 star Hotels within the city “centro”, capable of fulfilling its own lifestyle qualities to satisfy even the most demanding guest. The intimate and charming ambience emits a feeling of almost magic by creating a special atmosphere which pervades this residence surrounded by its historical-art and ancient Roman…
Il Sereno Como
Il Sereno brings a new era of luxury to the banks of Italy’s iconic Lake Como. Awarded the title of “Most Anticipated New Luxury Hotel Opening in 2016” by Luxury Travel Advisor magazine, Il Sereno’s ethos of understated elegance presents a freshness to this well-established destination. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Wallpaper* Magazine Designer of The Year 2015, the all-suite hotel promises modern style and an authentic…
Mnemba Island Lodge
Steeped in culture and history, Zanzibar enticed adventurers, seafarers and traders from far and wide. Known as the spice island, from the centuries old trade of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon, today the Zanzibar Archipelago is still bathed in the heady scents of spices and traditional dhows still drift across the horizon. A romantic hideaway, Mnemba Island is an exclusive paradise featuring twelve rustically chic beachside…
Cavo Tagoo Santorini
The exclusive Cavo Tagoo Santorini, twin of Cavo Tagoo Mykonos is located within walking distance from Fira and just a few kilometers from Oia, the resort offers luxurious suites, spectacular sunsets over the sea and a personalized service exceptional. All Suites are modern and feature a hot tub or private pool on the terrace style, design details, 43-inch LCD satellite TV, patio or terrace with stunning panoramic view…
Bawah Reserve
A gorgeous tropical paradise surrounded by a blue ocean, Bawah Reserve sits in sheltered seclusion 160 nautical miles (300km) northeast of Singapore in the remote Anambas Archipelago, Indonesia. This pristine and previously uninhabited marine conservation area is surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, which cater to outdoor adventurers looking to indulge as well as those looking to relax in paradise…
Gecko Hotel & Beach Club Formentera
In the beautiful and protected island of Formentera, Gecko Hotel & Beach Club was set out for like-minded individuals to unwind, connect with oneself and nature and above all celebrate life. Gecko brings to Formentera a new form of hospitality that unites our love for the island, the beach life and the elegance of a time in the past that continues to inspire us. Our clublike restaurant, in front of the Migjorn beach, offers a…
Azulik Tulum
In the heart of the Mayan jungle, a revolutionary project is about to redefine human evolution. A new vision of the future that is guided by ancestral knowledge and creates community is beginning to shape up.The VILLAS of AZULIK Tulum are built in harmony with the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea. With no electric light, A/C, or television, we present nature as our main amenity, setting the perfect mood for a…
Royal Mansour Marrakech
The Royal Mansour can be counted amongst the few establishments in the world that defy hotel excellence. Just a few steps away from the famous Jemaa El Fna square beats the heart of the Marrakesh Palace, offering travellers the unique concept of a medina within a medina.
Each area has been designed to intuitively take guests on a sensory journey. Take a step into the secret and sumptuous history of one of the…
Cliveden House
Cliveden House is a privately owned 5 Red Star award-winning hotel, and sister to the world-renowned Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa in Hampshire. Our story is one of over 350 years of powerful personalities, iconic parties and scandalous affairs. Built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, as a gift to his mistress, Cliveden House has remained a pinnacle of…
Laucala Island Fiji
A private island refuge in the South Pacific, Laucala unites dramatic rainforest-laced landscapes and white sandy beaches with unparalleled levels of luxury and privacy. No expense has been spared at the exclusive tropical hideaway, where 25 Fijian-styled villas are set amid coconut plantations, beside deserted beaches and atop the island’s volcanic mountains, overlooking fertile coral reefs and endless jungle. Style and…
Relais Borgo Santo Pietro
Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Relais Borgo Santo Pietro was once a healing stopover for medieval pilgrims. Today it continues to provide a sanctuary for modern souls, merging a 5 star luxury hotel and spa concept with a ‘farm to plate’ philosophy on a 300-acre estate. A sumptuous feeling of home pervades the 800-year-old luxury farmhouse hotel, with its worn leather armchairs pulled up around open fires, fresh flower…
The Akademie Street story starts with a single whitewashed 19th century Cape Dutch house in one of the oldest towns in South Africa.
Our Oortuiging building dates to around 1860 and provided the starter stones for Akademie Street as we’ve grown through the years, from a base for exploring the heritage of the wine-loving Huguenots, to one of the most highly rated luxury hotels in historic Franschhoek, the heart of wine country.
We are proud to be award winning for our facilities, peace and privacy, as well as the exceptional five star Akademie Street service that always goes the extra mile.
From luxe details, such as private plunge pools and wood fired hot tubs, to our garden setting, and thoughtfully designed suites and cottages. Our ethos is a luxurious home from home for all our guests – your story with us starts here.
to sleep & relax
Step over the threshold at Akademie Street and feel instantly at home. We firmly believe that our guests should be spoiled, from luxurious bedding to laundry on request and antiques in each room.
Every moment of your stay with us counts, no matter how short, and – just like visiting an old friend – nothing is too much trouble. Sunscreen and towels for the pool, access to our extensive library, pastries and coffee in the afternoon, a selection of local wines to taste – your room rate is all you pay.
Attention to every luxurious detail is something we take great pride in. From a mobile phone preprogrammed with numbers for all the local wineries, to rooms and suites that are designed for the kind of comfort that leaves a lasting impression.
Airy interiors, high quality linens, exceptionally comfortable beds, room to relax and individual touches are designed to make Akademie Street a luxurious home from home you’ll never want to leave.
Every suite or cottage has an Afrikaans name that connects it to the property’s heritage – all are uniquely comfortable and full of character.
to eat & drink
Franschhoek is the Culinary Capital of South Africa. With 8 of South Africa’s Top 100 restaurants located here you are perfectly placed for a journey of tantalising tastes and haute cuisine delights.
At Akademie Street it is our legendary breakfast that puts us on the local culinary map. Served daily on our leafy, vine covered patio, indulge in home roasted granola, freshly prepared smoothies, 15 different local seasonal fruits and an extensive menu of hot dishes.
Given the extensive range of restaurants within walking distance, formal dining at Akademie Street is breakfast-only. However, our home is your home, from the free fully stocked minibar to the expresso coffee machine in your room.
Every evening at sunset, drinks are served in our private courtyard, a sociable celebration of the Franschhoek good life. If you love a nightcap by the fire when you return from dinner, you’ll always find a warming selection of digestif and spirits waiting for you – or hot chocolate it you prefer.
to sun & swim
South Africa is famous for its sunshine and dry climate and the Western Cape has a pleasant heat that rarely reaches searingly uncomfortable temperatures.
Summer (October – February) is hot and sunny while winter (May – July) brings crisp sunshine, cooler nights and the odd refreshing shower. Even our cooler winter days give the British summer a run for its money.
Given this warm climate you can enjoy sun and swim at Akademie Street all year round. There are 4 pools and 3 wood burning hot tubs, as well as plenty of shady or sunny spots populated with luxurious vintage loungers. Our prime location guarantees sunshine virtually from dawn to dusk.
Our 3 guest cottages each has its own private plunge pool, secluded by leafy hedges and trees, perfect for a cooling midday dip. You can sunbathe in complete privacy or float for hours in your own private pool. A large main pool is solar-heated, constantly warm, whether you want to swim with the sunrise or under the stars.
Every aspect of sun and swim is catered for at Akademie Street, from thick fluffy towels, to sumptuously comfortable loungers. We also have all the essentials covered, from hats and sunscreen to water to rehydrate.
to gather & meet
Akademie Street is a unique combination of private cottages and luxurious suites that enable us to meet the needs of most guest parties. If you want to hire the entire property for a sundrenched boutique wedding, or book a private cottage for a romantic honeymoon escape, we can accommodate.
For a sophisticated, well-equipped business retreat in a setting conducive to new connections and innovation, we can deliver. Or if you’re simply looking for a home away from home in the heart of wine country, we can assist.
Elegant spaces and discreet areas accommodate everything, from a late night drink, to a coffee with new friends or old colleagues under the shade of African pomegranate shrubs.
Akademie Street’s chic lounge is an inviting space for an evening drinks reception and late night dining can be organised on request under the pergola in the garden.
Inside the house, the bar area is somewhere to meet, chat and enjoy coffee or an aperitif, while the courtyard and gardens offer spaces to connect and engage, or simply to sit under the arbor scented with jasmine and have tranquil time just for you.
to visit & do
The breathtaking Franschhoek Valley lies between nature reserves and mountain peaks in one of the most scenic parts of the Western Cape.
Safe, peaceful and easy to travel to, the town of Franschhoek is the perfect base from which to explore the vast natural beauty of this part of the world, as well as the mouthwatering intensity of South Africa’s culinary heartland.
Spend your time at the spa, horse riding, hiking or fly fishing, explore the valley museums and galleries or play a few rounds of golf on some of the most picturesque greens in the world. Relaxation is inevitable.
At the heart of Franschhoek is its wine and food. 40 exceptional wine cellars are matched by restaurants serving world-class cuisine – 8 of South Africa’s Top 100 restaurants are located here, as well as 1 of the Top 50 restaurants in the world.
The combination of haute cuisine dining and iconic local fine wines is a heady and memorable mix.
