The Living Journey Collection, one of South Africa’s most respected boutique hotel groups, is celebrating its tenth anniversary with the acquisition of Majeka House, a renowned luxury hotel in Stellenbosch.
Majeka House Boutique Hotel/Image: Supplied
This milestone marks an important chapter for the group, which has built a reputation for offering intimate and authentic travel experiences that celebrate South African hospitality at its best.
Over the past decade, The Living Journey Collection has grown to include eight boutique hotels, each within a two-hour drive of Cape Town. Every property reflects the group’s signature values of personal service, thoughtful design, and a deep sense of place, offering guests a stay that feels both luxurious and welcoming.
International experience to authentic South African hospitality
The Living Journey Collection was founded by Friedrich and Lorraine Schaefer, two international hoteliers whose combined experience at leading global hotels inspired them to create a portfolio of properties that put people and community first.
One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel/Image: Supplied
The couple met in New York in the late 1980s, where Friedrich worked at The Westbury and Lorraine at Plaza Athénée. Their shared belief in genuine, personalised hospitality became the foundation for their South African venture.
After many successful years abroad, they returned home to establish a collection that redefines boutique accommodation in South Africa. Their approach is centred on authentic experiences, local connection, and service that is both professional and heartfelt.
“Our goal has always been to create places where guests feel truly cared for,” says Friedrich Schaefer. “Attention to detail and genuine connection are what transform a stay into a lasting memory.”
A people-first philosophy
At the core of The Living Journey Collection is a commitment to its people. The group employs around 170 team members, with a strong focus on staff development and career growth. Almost one-third of the team has been promoted internally, reflecting the Schaefers’ dedication to nurturing talent from within.
Sustainability also plays a key role in the group’s operations. Each hotel sources locally made furnishings, artworks, and décor, supporting regional artisans and small businesses. Environmentally responsible practices are implemented across the properties to reduce their ecological footprint while ensuring long-term community benefit.
This focus on people, place, and purpose ensures that The Living Journey Collection continues to set a standard for boutique hotels in South Africa that combine comfort, care, and conscience.
A collection of distinctive destinations
Each property in The Living Journey Collection tells its own story while maintaining the group’s consistent standard of excellence.
Cape Town
In Cape Town’s Green Point, the Zest Boutique Hotel and The Tree House Boutique Hotel offer stylish, design-focused stays in the heart of the city.
The 14-room Zest Boutique Hotel, the group’s founding property, features colourful interiors and modern touches ideal for travellers exploring the city on foot.
Zest Boutique Hotel/Image: Supplied
Nearby, The Tree House Boutique Hotel provides a tranquil urban escape, complemented by its fine art collection and thoughtful service.
The Tree House Boutique Hotel/Image: Supplied
Western Cape
In Hermanus, the One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel overlooks the cliffs and coastline of Walker Bay. With 16 rooms and suites, it offers easy access to whale-watching points, coastal trails, and the popular Hemel-en-Aarde wine valley. The atmosphere is contemporary yet inviting, perfect for a relaxing seaside break.
One Marine Drive/Image: Supplied
In Franschhoek, two charming hotels capture the spirit of the Winelands. The Chapter House Boutique Hotel, set in a beautifully restored 1888 mission building, blends historic character with modern elegance.
Chapter House Boutique Hotel/Image: Supplied
Its 17 unique rooms pay homage to the town’s artistic and cultural heritage. Nearby, Plumwood Boutique Hotel offers 11 rooms surrounded by nature, ideal for guests seeking tranquillity and understated luxury.
Plumwood Boutique Hotel/Image:Supplied
The Robertson Small Hotel, located in the heart of Robertson, provides a chic country escape. Its Victorian architecture and lush gardens create a timeless setting complemented by the hotel’s two pool areas, boutique spa, and the acclaimed Small Restaurant, which celebrates local flavours and seasonal produce. The EM Bar adds a playful touch with porcelain décor inspired by the region’s plant life.
The Robertson/Image: Supplied
In Stellenbosch, the River Manor Boutique Hotel is a long-time favourite for visitors exploring the Winelands. Located near the historic town centre, it offers 18 elegant rooms, tree-lined tranquillity, and easy access to Stellenbosch’s galleries, cafés, and vineyards.
Latest Addition
River Manor Boutique Hotel/Image: Supplied
The latest addition, Majeka House, joins the collection as its largest property and a signature Winelands destination. Known for its creative interiors, award-winning spa, and fine dining, Majeka House continues to attract local and international travellers seeking boutique luxury close to renowned wine estates such as Vriesenhof and the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden.
Majeka House Boutique Hotel/Image: Supplied
A shared journey of warmth and care
For Friedrich and Lorraine Schaefer, the tenth anniversary of The Living Journey Collection is both a celebration and a reflection of the values that have shaped their success.
“Each stay and each guest interaction form part of a shared journey,” says Lorraine Schaefer. “We want guests to feel part of our story and for us to become part of theirs.”
Majeka House Boutique Hotel/Image: Supplied
That philosophy continues to define the group’s approach. Whether visiting Cape Town, the Cape Winelands, or the Overberg region, guests can expect consistent quality, comfort, and authenticity across every property.
The Schaefers’ family-run collection demonstrates that luxury in South Africa does not need to be grand or formal to be memorable. Instead, it is found in thoughtful details, community connection, and service that comes from the heart.
Celebrate with The Living Journey Collection
To mark its tenth anniversary, The Living Journey Collection is offering an Early Bird Festive Save of 20 percent off stays between 1 and 19 December 2025, bookable until 31 October 2025. The offer is available across all eight properties and includes breakfast, providing an ideal opportunity to enjoy a summer getaway before the festive season.
For more information or reservations, visit www.thelivingjourneycollection.co.za or follow @thelivingjourneycollection on social media.
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