Long Lee Manor at Shamwari Private Game Reserve has been recognised on the global stage, receiving a coveted Michelin Key — the hospitality industry’s equivalent of a Michelin Star. This accolade places Long Lee Manor among the world’s finest hotels and confirms its standing as one of South Africa’s premier luxury destinations.
Only 27 hotels in South Africa have received this honour, including iconic properties such as The Mount Nelson, The Cape Grace, Cellars-Hohenort, the Saxon and Le Quartier Français.
What the Michelin Key Means
Launched in 2024, the Michelin Key recognises hotels that deliver exceptional guest experience through:
- Outstanding architecture and interior design
- Quality of service and attention to detail
- Strong sense of place, identity, and character
- True value for price
- Contribution to local communities and the environment
To be awarded a Michelin Key is to be acknowledged as a global benchmark in luxury hospitality.
“Receiving recognition from Michelin places a restaurant or hotel amongst the world’s elite and in very select company. It’s huge for us,” says Joe Cloete, CEO of Shamwari.
A Manor Steeped in Heritage and Elegance
Originally built in 1910, Long Lee Manor underwent an extensive restoration in 2018/19. Architects and designers ensured the manor retained its historical charm while elevating it to world-class luxury standards. The property features:
- Elegant Edwardian-style suites
- Infinity pool with views across the plains
- Manicured gardens and outdoor dining terraces
- Sweeping vistas over savanna and distant mountains
Cloete believes the careful preservation of heritage, paired with modern sophistication and Shamwari’s conservation-led ethos, played a key role in earning the Michelin distinction.
Luxury with Purpose
Shamwari is world-renowned not only for its safari experiences but also for its pioneering conservation work and commitment to neighbouring communities. Guests at Long Lee Manor enjoy:
- Wildlife encounters on a Big Five reserve
- Ethical eco-tourism practices
- Community engagement initiatives
- A meaningful, immersive connection to the land
This holistic approach aligns closely with Michelin’s values of authenticity, sustainability, and local impact.
A Global Accolade for South African Tourism
The Michelin Key programme has redefined luxury travel recognition, spotlighting destinations that go beyond opulence to offer transformative, emotionally resonant experiences. Long Lee Manor’s inclusion underscores South Africa’s position as a leader in hospitality excellence, where wilderness, heritage, and world-class comfort converge.
