South Africa Update: Sir Richard Branson to Purchase Franschhoek Hotel & Vineyard

Big news from Franschhoek, South Africa, where Virgin Limited Edition (Sir Richard Branson’s luxury collection of retreats) has signed a contract to purchase the Mont Rochelle Hotel & Vineyard.
 
We hear that Branson has proposed to close the hotel and refurbish the property. The hotel is expected to re-open in August 2014.
 
The property's hilltop setting and private vineyard cover 39 hectares. The 22-bedroom hotel is in the heart of Franschhoek, and just 45 minutes from downtown Cape Town in South Africa. 

The private vineyard is expected to attract food and wine aficionados as well as those looking to stay close to the nearby Ulusaba Private Game Reserve.