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Our story

Unearthing Our Royal Roots

Our journey started in 1999 when Liz and Phil Biden opened Royal Malewane in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park.

How It All Began

The story of The Royal Portfolio began in 1999 when Liz and Phil Biden converted their family holiday home into Royal Malewane in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park.

“We were fortunate to have a beautiful holiday home in the African bush,” Phil explains. “We had so many lovely memories and special times together there, and Liz really wanted to share that. But it was addictive. And Liz was a natural. We soon wanted to share more unique South African experiences with our guests, our friends and our growing family.”

From a Single Property to a Portfolio

The Bidens soon opened Birkenhead House in Hermanus, offering a coastal experience focused on the region’s wonderful beaches. La Residence in Franschhoek followed, in a superb location amidst vineyards and mountains.

Liz’s talent for creating, designing, and decorating incredible spaces became the template for each hotel design, and her genuine warmth was the signature for hospitality across The Royal Portfolio collection.

A Family Legacy

The family-orientated beginnings of the business continued to remain a central focus, and it was a natural course of events for Liz and Phil’s son, Matthew, to join as Managing Director in 2012. Today, Matthew is The Royal Portfolio’s CEO as he oversees our legacy of growth and investment in Africa.

The Silo Hotel is the latest chapter in the story. It completes the circuit of quintessentially South African experiences adding Cape Town’s art, culture and design to our existing offerings.

Welcoming you home

This ethos resonates throughout The Royal Portfolio, where each and every team member is considered to be a part of the family. This sense of familiarity extends to our guest experiences, and it is critical to everyone at The Royal Portfolio that while our guests are staying in one-of-a-kind luxury establishments, they feel a deep sense of belonging and comfort – as if they have come home.

Discover the World of The Royal Portfolio

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Hotels & Lodges

Boutique hotels, lodges and private residences located in South Africa’s most iconic destinations.

Travel Tales Blog

Be inspired by our latest stories from the bush, ocean, vineyards and city.

Gift Vouchers

Give the gift of the perfect stay or the complete experience.

Hotels & Lodges

Boutique hotels, lodges and private residences located in South Africa’s most iconic destinations.

Travel Tales Blog

Be inspired by our latest stories from the bush, ocean, vineyards and city.

Gift Vouchers

Give the gift of the perfect stay or the complete experience.