By Anna – Marie Smith, Project Consultant Anel van den Heever, Photography Fiona Barclay-Smith
Located on a prize estate on the slopes of the Franschhoek pass and adjacent to the Mount Rochelle Reserve, L’ermitage oozes cultural refinement. Awaiting visitors is a pleasurable experience of old world tradition, visual beauty and a typically French country ambience.
The five-star L’ermitage Chateau and Villas, sits proudly on the Fransche Hoek Estate amidst its equally stately neighbours, Chamonix and Haute Cabriere. The design of this venue was inspired by the owner who also lives on the estate, and who had travelled extensively to observe different architectural designs. He says he appointed his loyal architect, Lydia Uys, to interpret his ideas into this magnificent design that incorporates all aspects of a truly French country village.
Built by Almor Construction in only 11 months, stone in combination with plaster and paints was used to highlight the architectural style. The quaint cobbled streets serve as a reminder of historical villages, yet this venue now represents the ultimate in comfort and convenience. The brilliant north-facing position not only provides generous sunshine during the winter but also spectacular views across the valley on the western side, while the mountains in an easterly direction often reflect white snowy peaks during winter.
The interiors reflect a deluxe yet relaxed ambience where exquisite drapery and custom-manufactured furniture upholstered in gorgeous fabrics enrich the fine European style. Superb combinations of handcrafted light fittings adorn the rooms. Floors are covered in a variety of superb finishes, in particular the exquisite, pure terracotta tiling imported from Italy. No effort was spared to create an elegant environment to suit discerning clientele. Individual bathrooms exhibit different designs of superior quality baths, sanitaryware, and fittings as well as imported travertine in generous proportions.
Impressive as a development echoing a green resonance, there is evidence of shared power through four wind turbines producing a total of 12kw of energy, as well as solar panels for the hotel’s lighting and televisions and to supplement Eskom’s existing electricity supply. As the owner is committed to energy saving, all the private villas are connected to the state of the art home automation system from where power usage is controlled.
For outdoor entertainment there is a beautiful swimming pool area welcoming weary bodies, and the front verandah overlooks the dam. Visitors can also enjoy luxuries such as the skin and body centre and a fully-stocked deli with a selection of fine wines and scrumptious delicacies. And to crown it all, the chateau has its very own quaint chapel on the village grounds, close enough to walk to. As the owner says, it has not only become a popular wedding venue, but serves perfectly as “a sanctuary for the soul”.
