Famous British entrepreneur Richard Branson will add more to his collection of luxury retreats, having agreed to buy Mont Rochelle Hotel & Mountain Vineyard in South Africa.
Branson who has already signed a preliminary deal at an undisclosed sum said the purchase will be through his Virgin Limited Edition luxury retreat business with the bid to promote wine tourism in Franschoek where the 22-bedroom property is based.
The new deal will expand the hotelier’s luxury property business which already includes Ulusaba Private Game Reserve in South Africa, Kasbah Tamadot in Morocco, The Lodge in Verbier and Sa Terra Rotja in Majorc, a tented safari camp in Kenya and a 74-acre Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands.
Branson’s investment comes after a similar investment by Indian billionaire entrepreneur Analjit Singh who acquired a stake in multiple Platter five- star awarded Mullineux Family Wines Swartland in South Africa few days ago.
”I’m thrilled to be able to announce that we are in the process of purchasing Mont Rochelle and what I’m sure will be a “must visit” winelands experience in South Africa,” Branson said.
Strategically located on a 39-hectare private estate, including vineyards, Mont Rochelle was founded in 1688 and it charges up to R 9,900 ($938) for a night in its Cap Classic Suite. The hotel also has a private terrace, a fitness facility, plunge pool, a Jacuzzi and a sauna. Wines produced out of the vineyards include Sauvignon Blanc, unwooded Chardonnay, barrel fermented Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz and Rosé.
The hotel will be closed for refurbishments and re-open in August, 2014.
