Look up the word villa and synonyms associated with luxurious living pop up: mansion, manor, hacienda, castle, estate, palace. However, for me, a villa conjures up a space that is less pretentious than a stately residence – a space that is in a coveted location and has all the charm of an airy holiday home complete with lush rambling gardens and subtle luxuries.
That is exactly what The Owner’s Villa at Delaire Graff Estate offers. The Estate sits at the top of the winding Helshoogte Pass that connects Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. It is undoubtedly a coveted location, renowned for its views, service and offerings – which include recently refurbished lodges, a magnificent spa, landscaped gardens, a wine cellar and a private tasting room, as well as two dining options – the Delaire Graff Restaurant led by Head Chef Clinton Jacobs and Hoseki, a Japanese farm-to-table dining guided by Head Chef Virgil Kahn.
While guests at the four-bedroom Owner’s Villa have full access to all of the above if they so desire, they have the option of rather ensconcing themselves in complete peace and privacy. And with everything at one’s well-manicured fingertips, there really is no need to leave the 660 square metre home until you need to jet off to your next destination.
“I first laid eyes on Delaire Graff Estate in 2003 and its beauty astounded me,” says Laurence Graff OBE, jeweller and founder of Graff Diamonds, of what is now his home in South Africa. “The Owner’s Villa has been a very personal project for me. It is an extension of what we already offer at Delaire – fabulous service, exceptional art, the finest South African hospitality and the most incredible views – but with even greater levels of luxury and privacy.”
It all starts with the views, which are visible from the entrance hall. Enormous windows frame Botmaskop Peak to the south, while each bedroom is westward facing, with views of Stellenbosch, False Bay and Table Mountain from the private terraces. The expansive entertainment area, 14-metre infinity pool and jacuzzi are also perfectly positioned to take advantage of the vistas, as is the dining room.
Art and wine are both an integral part of Delaire Graff and naturally play an esteemed role in The Owner’s Villa. The Villa is an art gallery in itself, with a selection of over 70 pieces from Laurence Graff’s personal collection, including works by Yves Dana, Jabu Nala and Cyrus Kabiru displayed alongside other contemporary African and international artists. The walk-in cellar allows you to select one of the Estate’s award-winning varietals, which you can enjoy while watching the private chef prepare a meal in the elegant Assirelli kitchen or watching a movie in the family room’s home theatre. Anything else on your list? Don’t worry about it – a personal butler and concierge are available to attend to all needs, including booking your helicopter to collect you from one of the two helipads on the property.
The Owner’s Villa sets the bar for a high-end escape, whether it’s a family reunion, a milestone celebration or if you simply want to kick up your heels in discreet style.
For reservation enquiries, email: sales.manager@delaire.co.za
