Event Concepts launches The Collective in South Africa

Event Concepts has revealed the launch of The Collective, its brand-new portfolio of the very best South African event venues and experiences for event profs.

Concepts Collection CEO Richard Holt said: “The Collective’s launch on the world stage will be in October, at one of the luxury MICE industry’s most prestigious events, inVOYAGE 2019 in Monaco, where we will showcase the Collective to the best of the worlds event buyers. With South Africa voted as one of the top ten hottest destinations for MICE in 2019, we have partnered with properties that offer personalised, bespoke and unforgettable MICE moments.”

The Collective properties are all personally hand-selected and endorsed by the Event Concepts team, and here’s their lowdown on the new portfolio…

BOSCHENDAL WINE ESTATE
Boschendal is located between the famous towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. The stunning setting, and relaxing environment is perfect for those looking for a business event with a difference. The array of accommodation, dining and adventure activity options (mountain biking, horse riding, fishing, trail-running, wine tasting, vineyard tours and picnics) makes Boschendal our experiential and flexible MICE destination of choice.

Several unique event spaces exist on the sprawling estate, the highlight being the new Retreat; a secluded accommodation and conference facility situated within private, landscaped gardens. Comprising 18 two-bedroomed cottages, conferencing, theatre, lounge and dining facilities its self- contained yet offers access to all the extensive Boschendal facilities close by. 

The Olive Press venue which exudes country elegance and sophistication seats 200 guests and can be used for more extensive  conferencing or gala dinners. The separate historic Rhone Homestead provides a Cape Dutch-inspired location set amongst 300-year-old oak trees for up to 75 guests. With accommodation across the estate for over 200 people, restaurant choices and a deli, plus a range of onsite activities, Boschendal provides a variety of MICE options. 

THE LANZERAC HOTEL AND SPA 
Dating back to 1692, the Lanzerac’s history and legacy as one of the most famous Stellenbosch landmarks is evident from the moment you enter the property. The stately driveway lined with towering oak trees, expansive lawns and the magnificent heritage architecture of the Manor House is all impressive.

Boasting old-world charm refreshed by recent state-of-the-art renovations, this five-star boutique Winelands hotel not only offers exceptional hospitality and accommodation but beautifully appointed conference and event spaces – both indoor and outdoor.

With 54 stylish rooms, the property is perfect for a book-out, guaranteeing exclusive use of the wine estate for a special conference, incentive or company getaway. All outdoor celebrations are conducted against the scenic backdrop of the Manor House, while Lanzerac’s newly refurbished indoor Cellar Hall venue offers the capacity of up to 150 guests. The expansive lawns with mountain views are large enough to host marquee events of up to 250 guests, and the addition of new luxury spa facilities adds to the appeal of this location.

SPIER 
Enjoying an expansive, verdant Winelands location within striking distance of nearby Stellenbosch, a 20-minute drive from Cape Town International Airport and just 30 minutes from Cape Town itself, Spier is very much a complete MICE destination in its own right. Its charming versatility belies the fact that it can offer both large-scale MICE options and smaller, more intimate events.

The Spier hotel has 153 rooms across various category levels and set in a village-type environment laid out around six private courtyards with swimming pools. The main conference facilities and outside amphitheatre both host 350 guests and 12 smaller meeting rooms can cater for smaller workshops, conferences and exhibitions. 

Opportunities for entertainment and showcase events abound, and Spier is particularly suited for those with a slant toward theatre or art. Flexible catering options set Spier apart in a unique way; outdoor cocktail receptions and gala dinners are all possible alongside several restaurant options. 

The recycling and responsible tourism aspect of this property is also a real showstopper. Sustainable  farming tours add an insightful perspective to wine tours and wine tasting experiences. Wine is a huge part of the Spier brand, and the 21 gables Chenin Blanc, in particular, is a must-try. ’Growing for good’ is the crucial message that connects Spier to several social responsibility programmes; groups can interact and engage with these during their stay.

THE KOVE COLLECTION
Two boutique hotels plus, a variety of experiential and scenic restaurants in Cape Town all perfect for group dining, make the Kove Collection portfolio a superb option serving the small-scale MICE market. For large-scale MICE events, the hospitality group offers excellent al fresco dining options that reflect the essence of cosmopolitan Cape Town. Here, stunning sea views add a dash of inspiration to cocktail parties, gala dinners and awards ceremonies. 

The Marly Hotel, located in the elite seaside suburb of Camps Bay and just yards from the beach, has 38 rooms and is the obvious choice for specialist groups. The Alphen Hotel is located in leafy Constantia, just 20 minutes from the city amid wine estates and spectacular scenery. With only 19 rooms and smaller conference facilities, this beautiful 17th-century suburban property retains its old-world charm while embracing the light touch of modernity.

The restaurant offerings create combined indoor and outdoor space for groups, and all can be booked exclusively. Ranging from the iconic Bungalow overlooking Clifton beaches, with its laid back, barefoot atmosphere, to Chinchilla rooftop venue with its food, music and vibe. Alternatively, contemporary Bilboa on the Camps Bay strip is an equally alluring option. The Kove Collection has group dining and entertainment options neatly sewn up.