Latest news with #CapeGraceHotel
Time Out
22-07-2025
- Business
- Time Out
Ilios Travel founder launches new employee-owned touring company
Veteran tourism entrepreneur Mohamed Baba has officially launched Aurum Africa, an employee-owned premium touring company. With a founding team of 40, including 25 staff shareholders, Aurum Africa offers curated, guided experiences and journey logistics across Southern Africa. The venture aims to redefine transformation in the tourism sector through "equity sharing local empowerment." Speaking at the launch event held at the Cape Grace Hotel, Baba said Aurum Africa was born from a desire to move beyond "lip service to real, lived transformation." "True transformation isn't about compliance scorecards or token gestures. I'm determined that Aurum Africa will stand as proof that true empowerment is possible when you trust your people with real ownership, not just promises," he said. At the launch, Baba, who spent three decades shaping local tour experiences in the industry, also confirmed that he is no longer involved in Illios Travel, the company he founded over 25 years ago. Having exited the business in 2021, Baba said Illios remains an integral part of his legacy. However, Aurum Africa now represents a new chapter built on "shared ownership, a fresh vision, and a deeper commitment to transformation in the tourism sector." 'Our guests deserve experiences shaped by people who are truly invested – not just employees, but owners,' he said. Shareholder Shadley Basadien, who spoke about 'The Aurum Journey' at the launch, emphasised the personal impact of the ownership model and the opportunity created for the company's business model. 'When you own part of the business you're building, every guest interaction, every tour, every success becomes personal. That's what creates exceptional experiences,' Basadien said. Lending his support to the initiative, SATSA CEO David Frost commended the Baba for the new initiative and longstanding drive to see real empowerment take place in the industry. Aurum Africa aims to positioned itself as a replicable blueprint for the industry, added Baba.
IOL News
07-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
South Africa's top spas: The 2025 Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Spa Awards winners announced
The 2025 Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Spa Awards, recognising the standout spas that are transforming luxury and holistic healing. Image: Pexels The Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Spa Awards 2025, hosted recently in Cape Town, brought together the best of South Africa's spa and wellness industry for an evening of recognition and celebration, acknowledging standout spas that are redefining luxury, wellness, and holistic healing in South Africa and beyond. These prestigious awards spotlight innovation, professionalism, and excellence across the spa landscape. This year's awards featured seven diverse categories The 2025 Awards featured seven categories: Day Spas, Hotel Spas, Boutique Hotel Spas, Safari Spas, Unique Spa Concepts, Aesthetic/Medi Spas and Wellness Retreats. Below are the winners and finalists across each category. Hotel Spa Category Winner: The Spa at Fancourt Located in George in the Garden Route, Guests can enjoy a curated menu of treatments, from therapeutic massages to advanced facials using leading international skincare brands. Finalists: Fairmont Spa at Cape Grace Hotel Newly launched within the iconic Cape Grace Hotel, the Fairmont Spa introduces a modern wellness experience in the heart of Cape Town's V&A Waterfront. The spa features state-of-the-art facilities, including a dedicated halotherapy salt room—a first for the property. Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa The newly reimagined Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa blends contemporary luxury with Japonica-inspired design. Signature treatments and bespoke rituals draw on Eastern healing spa features private treatment rooms, a relaxation garden, and a thermal suite Equilibrium Boutique Wellness Spa at Fairview Hotel Set within the lush subtropical gardens of the Fairview Hotel in Tzaneen, Equilibrium Boutique Wellness Spa offers a tranquil, nature-inspired escape focused on balance and holistic healing. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Day Spa Category Winner: Aronia Day Spa In Houghton, Aronia Day Spa is a boutique wellness destination offering an escape in the heart of Johannesburg. The spa is set within a tranquil, landscaped estate and features nine treatment rooms, a Rasul chamber, hydrotherapy bath, floatation therapy and outdoor relaxation gardens. Finalists: Spa de la Veille Located in Centurion, Pretoria, Spa de la Veille blends French elegance with holistic wellness. This luxurious day spa features seven private treatment rooms, two double suites, a manicure and pedicure lounge, relaxation area, and a heated Roman bath, Finnish sauna and a Himalayan Salt Room. Rifumo Boutique Spa Located in the heart of Mbombela, Rifumo Boutique Spa offers a serene retreat of luxury and relaxation. This boutique spa provides personalized care and indulgent treatments in an elegant setting. Thai Sabai Day Spa In the suburbs of Somerset West, Thai Sabai Day Spa brings the ancient healing traditions of Thailand to Cape Town's Helderberg region. Guests are welcomed into a serene, Thai-inspired space where skilled therapists deliver personalised massages, body scrubs, and beauty rituals. Boutique Hotel Spa Category Winner: Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa In the heart of Johannesburg, Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa is a Balinese-inspired spa set amidst lush, tropical gardens, with private treatment salas, a heated vitality pool, and calming outdoor spaces. Finalists: Steenberg Boutique Hotel & Spa Tucked among the historic vineyards of Constantia, the newly renovated Steenberg Boutique Hotel & Spa offers a refined blend of heritage and innovation. The spa features elegant treatment rooms, holistic therapies, and locally inspired rituals designed for deep relaxation. With a focus on personalised service, continuous innovation, and sensory indulgence, Steenberg delivers a boutique wellness experience that reflects the luxury and culinary excellence of one of Cape Town's most iconic wine estates. The Featherhill Boutique Hotel & Spa Located in Potchefstroom, South Africa, the hotel and spa offers a tranquil escape out of the city with luxurious amenities. The renowned Vista's Restaurant, a hidden gem, boasts breathtaking hilltop views of Potchefstroom. Palm House Boutique Hotel & Spa Set in Wynberg, the 1920s mansion offers stunning views of Table Mountain and opulent luxury amid lush gardens. Safari Spa Category Winner: Fijnebos Spa – Botlierskop Game Reserve & Villas Nestled between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Fijnebos Spa is part of the exclusive Botlierskop Private Game Reserve, renowned for its rich wildlife and stunning landscapes. The spa offers superior hydrotherapy facilities, including indoor and outdoor pools, alongside African-inspired treatments in tranquil indoor rooms and open-air salas. Finalists: Amani Spa & Wellness – Radisson Safari Hotel, Hoedspruit Set in Hoedspruit's scenic Lowveld, the newly opened Amani Spa & Wellness at the Radisson Safari Hotel offers a modern wellness retreat within a luxury safari lodge. The spa features serene treatment rooms, a steam room, sauna, hydrotherapy pool, outdoor swimming pools, and dedicated yoga decks overlooking the bush. Dee's African Spa at Kruger Gate Hotel Dee's African Spa is located at Kruger Gate Hotel which is on the banks of the Sabie River just 500 meters away from the gate of the world-renowned Kruger National Park. Services include facials, massage, body therapies and signature treatments that are inspired by the Tsonga/Shangaan traditions. Lion Sands - Narina Lodge Lion Sands Narina Lodge, nestled within the renowned Lion Sands Game Reserves along the Sabie River, offers an exclusive retreat deeply connected to nature. The newly introduced spa features sleek Scandinavian design, blending minimalist elegance with natural elements to create a calming sanctuary. Unique Spa Concept Category Winner: The Spa at The Twelve Apostles Hotel Perched between the Twelve Apostles mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean, The Twelve Apostles spa is within a natural cave, discovered during construction. The hidden retreat features serene hydrotherapy areas painted in soft, light hues to enhance the sense of calm. A highlight of the experience is crossing the glass bridge, suspended over a rock chamber. Finalists: Gold Spa by Healing Earth – The Cocoon Collection, Zanzibar Gold Spa by Healing Earth is a serene retreat inspired by Islamic architecture, with open spaces, tranquil courtyards, and elegant arches. Surrounded by palm-lined pools, soft sandy beaches, and shaded umbrellas, the setting invites total relaxation. Verde Vita Spa – Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport Located just 400 meters from Cape Town International Airport, Hotel Verde is Africa's greenest hotel, renowned for its carbon-neutral operations and multiple sustainability awards. The Verde Vita Spa & Wellness Centre has evolved from a simple relaxation space into a cutting-edge facility designed with eco-conscious principles. Guests enjoy a sustainable wellness experience in a modern, green setting that aligns with Hotel Verde's eco-friendly vision. Yadah Castle – Hammam Turkish Spa & Bath & À La Turka Restaurant At Yadah Castle, the Hammam Turkish Spa & Bath offers an immersive wellness journey with traditional steam baths, Persian carpets, flickering candles, and plush cushions that create a soothing, sensory escape. The spa's authentic décor and artworks, imported from Turkey by owners Vanessa and Gokhan Hacisuleyman, add to the exotic ambiance. Just steps away, the adjoining À La Turka Restaurant complements the experience with rich, authentic Turkish cuisine. Together, they provide a harmonious blend of luxurious relaxation and vibrant dining, transporting guests to the heart of Turkish culture and hospitality. Glasshouse Rejuvenation Located in Cape Town's sleek Silo District, Glasshouse Rejuvenation is a cutting-edge grooming and wellness destination designed with the modern man in mind. The space features clean architectural lines, industrial finishes, and a calm, masculine atmosphere. Specialising in advanced skincare, tailored grooming, and therapeutic treatments,. Aesthetic Institute Category Winner: Terre Paisible Medical Rejuvenation & Spa Set amidst the serene beauty of Franschhoek, Terre Paisible is a haven of luxurious rejuvenation where advanced medical aesthetics meet elegant contemporary design. Private suite boasts separate entrances, ensuring utmost privacy and exclusivity. The bespoke, medically guided treatments are expertly tailored to enhance visors natural radiance within a setting of understated luxury. Finalists: SCINMed – Wembley Square SCINMed at Wembley Square, Cape Town is a leader in preventative medicine and longevity, offering cutting-edge aesthetic and wellness treatments in a luxurious, clinical environment. Under the guidance of Dr. Kamlen Pillay, and in collaboration with InUWell (Institute of Universal Wellcare) SCINMed provides personalised health optimisation strategies rooted in the latest longevity science. With a focus on early intervention, cellular health, and graceful ageing, treatments are tailored for lasting, natural results. Revive Skin and Body Clinic Located in Waterfall, Johannesburg, Revive Skin and Body Clinic is a dynamic wellness destination dedicated to holistic skincare and rejuvenation. The clinic offers advanced, results-driven treatments tailored to individual needs. Professional Skin Care Lab Situated in Parktown North, Johannesburg, Professional Skin Care Lab is a leading aesthetic clinic known for its expert, results-oriented approach to skin clinic blends clinical expertise with personalised care to treat a range of skin concerns—from acne and pigmentation to ageing and sensitivity. Wellness Retreats Winner: Maua Wellness by Healing Earth at Zuri Zanzibar Tucked away in the tropical serenity of Zuri Zanzibar, Maua Wellness by Healing Earth offers a transformative retreat where barefoot luxury meets holistic healing. Surrounded by vibrant spice gardens and majestic baobab trees, guests are immersed in nature through open-air treatment gazebos, a stunning ocean-view yoga pavilion, an outdoor gym, and tranquil wellness spaces.. Finalists: Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa Situated in a tranquil valley framed by the majestic Drakenstein mountains, Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa embodies serene elegance and refined hospitality. The retreat features exquisite villa and suite accommodations, complemented by a world-class day spa offering extensive hydrotherapy, indoor heated pool and jacuzzi, outdoor pool, fitness centre with yoga and Pilates studios and sauna. Santé's pioneering Bio-Energy Centre employs over 30 advanced technologies in its Health Optimizing program, providing comprehensive health assessments and bespoke treatments. The Fernery Lodge and Spa In the heart of Tsitsikamma Forest, Eastern Cape, The Fernery Lodge and Spa offers breathtaking sea views and the soothing sound of nearby waterfalls. This luxurious retreat invites guests to indulge in natural forest bathing, surrounded by ancient trees and lush greenery, creating a peaceful sanctuary. Isiphiwo Spa Located north of Pretoria, Isiphiwo Spa is an exclusive wellness retreat offering private, tranquil spaces surrounded by lush gardens. Guests enjoy bespoke treatments in intimate settings designed to restore balance and wellbeing.
IOL News
02-06-2025
- IOL News
'I felt like one of those 'Real Housewives of Cape Town' being lavishly fed by a private chef'
Bar area at Heirloom restaurant. Image: Bernelee Vollmer Do you want a dining experience that feels like a gentle brush with luxury and elegance, without it being intimidating? I have found the perfect spot for you in Cape Town. Now hear me out. Yes, it may be in the exclusive, wonderful and newly re-opened and revamped Cape Grace Hotel, yet the elegant restaurant in the hotel - Heirloom - while indeed a classy spot, is not a stiff-upper-lip type of place It is more 'put on your favourite silk dress' rather than 'borrow your aunt's inherited pearls". The name Heirloom, when you look up the meaning, means a valuable object that has belonged to a family for several generations, like those pearls you chose not to wear. So expect a slight sense of "Old Money", a bit of "The Gatsby" and all-glamour, but also a place where you can enjoy a five-course meal with relish, which is exactly what I did when I was invited to attend recently. From the moment you step in, the vibe strikes you: it is a sophisticated modern cruise with dark woods, deep tones and soft lighting that balances moodiness with class. There are stunning views it being on the west quay of the V&A Waterfront: think the more quieter side of the docks, yachts, sea... but once the food arrives, you will probably forget the views because the art of the food will be all you can focus on. The standout centre bar, surrounded by sleek glass and pockets of greenery, brings a brightness and modern edge that lifts the whole atmosphere. It's intimate, stylish and perfect for the kind of night where you want to treat yourself (and maybe someone special too). Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ The elegant yet approachable Heirloom restaurant. Image: Bernelee Vollmer Each course was introduced with a smile and a story, adding just the right amount of theatre to the evening. It had that good old-school charm, where hospitality wasn't about flair but about making you feel looked after. Now, this wasn't your classic candlelit date night. It was before our wedding - a time of lists, budgets and final fittings but this evening became something unexpectedly meaningful. We were seated with other reviewers, which could've been awkward, but ended up being one of the highlights. The conversations flowed as easily as the wine, and before long, strangers became warm tablemates who were sharing marriage advice and baby wishes (my baby is due in a few weeks). They toasted our upcoming wedding, spoke about parenting with a wink, and it felt like a small celebration with kind strangers. The invite from the hotel came at just the right time. We were reaching the final stages of our simple wedding planning, and this felt like a chance to breathe, to enjoy. My partner and I, now my husband, are mostly home-cooked meals type of people who dabble in restaurants during the holiday season or the odd date night, so this experience felt special. The menu was playful and thoughtful, a feast for the eyes with all the colour I crave on a plate because yes, honey, I eat with my eyes first. Each course delivered flavours as bold and vibrant as they looked, and my baby was dancing in my belly. While I had to pass on the wine pairings (tragic, I know), I can still confidently say that the food alone made this experience worth every forkful. And look, I'm not exactly adventurous when it comes to food. I like what I like. But this menu gently nudged me out of my comfort zone, and it was an absolute treat to explore flavour without fear. Tuna, served on toasted brioche with roasted black garlic aioli, apple jelly, and crispy apple sticks. Image: Bernelee Vollmer Each dish was created in reverse, starting with a limited-release or vintage Waterford wine and crafting the meal to match. That's where the magic happens. 'Our approach allows us to create a harmonious experience,' says sommelier Alvezo Abrahams. 'By letting the wines guide the dishes, guests can appreciate how each wine influences the flavours of the ingredients. It becomes more than just a meal; it is about the story conveyed through taste." The evening opened with the Blanc de Blanc Cap Classique 2018 paired with tuna, served on toasted brioche with roasted black garlic aioli, apple jelly, and crispy apple sticks. Now, I might not have sipped the wine, but I could still appreciate the balance in this dish. That caviar-textured apple jelly? I felt like a "Real Housewife" being fed by a private chef - it was elegant, playful and unique. This was the first time I had anything remotely close to caviar, and it was apple jelly? How insane. I don't regret trying new things. Pork belly glazed in white wine orange beurre blanc. Image: Bernelee Vollmer Then came the Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2024 with rainbow trout, pepper salsa, avo purée, and a garlic crumble. Light, fresh, and full of layers. It was the kind of dish that made me wonder why I don't eat more trout. Probably because it's rarely done this well. The third course is a personal favourite: the Chardonnay 2015 with pork belly glazed in white wine, orange beurre blanc. Now listen, pork belly is my weakness. Crispy on the outside, melt-in-the-mouth inside, and that citrusy note from the beurre blanc sealed the deal. I don't know what it is, but pork and fruit just work – if you know how to do it right. Beef tongue, fillet, salted candied tomatoes, and cauliflower purée on a potato fondant with a rich jus. Image: Bernelee Vollmer Then came the heavyweight: a beef course paired with a choice between the Jem 2017 Red Blend or the Kevin Arnold Shiraz 2016. The dish included beef tongue, fillet, salted candied tomatoes and cauliflower purée on a potato fondant with a rich jus. Now, this plate was generous, no lie. But once I took that first bite, there was no turning back. The meat was tender, the sides were refined yet comforting, and it felt like Sunday roast had gone to culinary school. And just when I thought I was done, dessert arrived like a gentle hug. Poached pear, chocolate sorbet, and pistachio mousse. Image: Bernelee Vollmer The Heatherleigh NV Dessert Wine was served with poached pear, chocolate sorbet, and pistachio mousse. Light yet indulgent, and the perfect sweet ending to such a well-paced meal. The Heirloom x Waterford pairing is a beautifully considered experience. The ingredients are locally sourced and seasonal, the wines are rare, and the setting is made for memories. This is for people who appreciate slow dining, romantic moments and storytelling through food, whether you're a well-heeled wine lover, a couple celebrating something special, or just two tired parents looking to feel fancy for a night. It's beautifully curated, warm without being fussy, and ideal for stepping outside your usual dining comfort zone – even if you're pregnant and skipping the wine! The Waterford wine pairing dinners are a splurge, yes, but for a five-course experience and warm hospitality, it's the kind that feels worth it. Think celebration, not casual tequila Tuesday. Prices range from R230 to R800 depending on what you're indulging in, from appetisers to desserts. And for the five-course wine pairing, you will need R1 950. It's a splurge, yes, but one that doesn't feel over the top. Just right for when you want to feel a little bit posh. * Renowned Wesli Jacobs is the new chef at Heirloom. RATING BERNELEE GIVES HEIRLOOM A ★★★★ This is a five-course journey worth taking, especially if you love attention to detail and food that tells a story. Overall 4. ★★★★ (Very good) Food: Delicious, well-prepared with some standout dishes. Service: Attentive, friendly and professional. Ambiance: Pleasant, well-designed and comfortable. Value: Worth the price; good quality for cost.
