“Discover South Africa’s new hotspot” 

The Gregoire Boutigue hotel and spa, Hermanus

It’s time to discover and enjoy what could  well be south africa’s latest hotspot with lots of society chat taking place in London and new York about this beautiful new private residence that is not even  sign posted.

One could say discretion at its ultimate!

By the roving ambassador

Close to Hermanus’ famous cliff path, guests are able to experience breath-taking views over walker bay, yet only being a stone’s throw away from the heart of Hermanus, which has become the place to be and be seen.

The Gregoire opened its doors late December 2015 and is the creation of Cindy Barry who has just added a touch of “je ne sais quoi” and has creation.

Having travelled extensively, Cindy comments on her inspiration, behind this unique property, “the Gregoire was inspired by the local artist, Gregoire boonzaier, who is heralded as one of the four masters of south African art.as my family has curated a collection of fine art and objects d’art over the past forty years, a boutique hotel seemed like works of this famed artist, especially as Gregoire was an Overberg local, spending most of his time in onrus,before his death in 2005.”

The man behind the name, boonzaier’s considerable contribution to South African art is said to be undeniable by his peers. A famous exponent of cape impressionism, he was known for using his works to contribute to the struggle against apartheid. Charitable by nature, he was always keen to assist fellow artists and give advice when asked even as a student during apartheid, he was one of the few willing to assists schools of colour. To this end he went so far as donate bursaries for teachers at underprivileged schools.

In this later years, he was instrumental in preserving the memory of district six and other important cultural dimensions of Cape Town.

In paying homage to the unique character of Boonzaier. Cindy has also infused the 3 000m2, with her own tastes and style offering inspirational experiences for guests who expect a certain level of luxury and who can expect to experience five star services, like no other. The Gregoire allows you to escape time, within an opulent private residence, where your every need is foreseen.

On entering this discreet property, minimalistic design elements and muted tones, serve to further display Cindy’s collection of art and objects d’art serene furnishing ensure that the overall feel is welcoming, inviting guests to relax and absorb their surroundings, while mid-century pieces of Pieff and Charles Eames perfectly reflect the grandeur of each space.

Wondering from the beautiful elegant private lounges into one of the eight suites, the décor remains neutral, allowing the crisp, white linen and luxurious textures to take prominence. Cindy comments, “The decision to keep the property intimate has allowed us to maintain incredible attention to detail in cache suite and really focus on providing an exceptional experience, for our guest.”

The Gregoire is divided into two villas – Gregoire and Charles gardener. King beds, plasma tv’s and satellite channels come standard, with free-standing baths, patios and decks depending on which suite you choose.one has to say this property really takes you into new dimensions of hospitality!

Breakfast is a continental affair, allowing guest to enjoy cheeses eggs, smoked salmon and more in the company of a fresh sea breeze while not full board, The Gregoire does offer more than what is generally included in luxury properties. In addition to the standard Caffitaly coffee, fine teas and mineral water, non-alcoholic sodas and house wine are also included in your rate.

Cindy has travelled to a number of beautiful destinations over the past twenty years, including Monte Carlo, St Moritz and Malibu, California.

Having  returned from seven years in England, a few years back, Cindy has taken her inspirations of the Gregoire from the stunning hotels and private residences she has stayed at she says, ”when we acquired this property, it was – and – our goal to make it “bold and beautiful”. We are lucky to have the freedom of space, which we want to use optimally, to ensure guests are afforded privacy at all times. We have created a fusion of experiences, in order to provide our discerning guest with a unique experience close to the shore of the South Atlantic Ocean.”

Both Cindy and all of the colleagues have a natural affinity for people and hospitality. Food and wine hit top of the list at the Gregoire as the Barry’s enjoy wines from both the new and old world and Cindy is most definitely a gourmand of note, who has an ability to combine flavours using sourced fish from the sea and beautiful tender south African meat, accompanied by an array of vegetables and salads.

After chatting to Cindy, it is time to make our way to our suite .while each room has its own unique finishing – picture chandeliers, beautiful beds and marble baths – it is the sophisticated design elements and calming tones throughout the property that bring this private residence together as a whole.

Climbing into bed is, as one would expect, a truly luxurious affair. Fine threaded cotton bedding, duck down duvets and an exclusive pillow menu – when combined with the crashing waves outside – all but guarantee a perfect night’s rest for any guest.

One will be forgiven for not wanting to leave the plush embrace of the Gregoire’s suites – however upon venturing on to the hotel’s expansive lawns, there are three swimming pools waiting to be discovered, including a marble roman pool, sun loungers are dotted across the property, providing the perfect opportunity for catching up on some reading, chilling out under the African sun and enjoy beverage of your choice.

What is impressive day and night is the pergola, which is illuminated by the most beautiful chandeliers and form a perfect setting to take in the ambience of all that surrounds.

The ultimate touch is being able to chill out while listening to background music.

The spa at the Gregoire offers refining treatment based on extracts from fruit and beautifully scented aroma oils for those who need to relieve stress and float on the clouds for a while. Afternoons can be spent enjoying a friendly game of boule or croquet before refreshing in the privacy of your private suite and enjoying cocktails followed by dinner cooked by the Gregoire’s resident chef.

While much of the hotel’s appeal lies in a beautifully combined fusion of old and new, The Gregoire offers number experiences and background music that could enable one to think you are in Mykonos or Ibiza.

The Gregoire is possibly South Africa’s new hotspot and well worth a visit for those seeking relaxation, within a comfortable vibe and chilled environment.

Contacts:

Shanaaz Solomons
TEL: +27 21 426 0991
FAX: +27 21 422 0337
SKYPE ID: shanaaz-solomons
EMAIL: pr@therovingambassador.com
WEB: www.therovingambassador.com