Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts is accelerating its presence in Africa with the signing of a new management agreement for a luxury retreat in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The company signed the long-term agreement with the owners of what was previously The Westcliff hotel in Johannesburg. The retreat, set on a cliffside garden estate in the northern suburbs, was closed on 30 June this year to undergo renovations and new construction. It will reopen as Four Seasons Hotel Westcliff Johannesburg in the second quarter of 2014.

Overlooking Johannesburg Zoo, the retreat will feature 114 guestrooms and suites with African–inspired décor.

The property will unveil a brand new spa facility, The Spa at Four Seasons, which will offer six treatment rooms, a lap pool and relaxation deck, plus a fitness centre.

Four Seasons has retained the original architect of the hotel – Johannesburg-based RSL Architects – to ensure any architectural work is consistent with the original design. Johannesburg-based interior design firm JACKET has also been involved with the project.

A host of new restaurant and bar concepts designed by UK-based hospitality design firm Blacksheep will also be on offer.

The company has two additional projects under consideration in Tanzania and is exploring further expansion across the region.

Scott Woroch, executive vice-president of worldwide development for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts said: “Africa’s economic growth, improved stability and ease of travel have made the continent increasingly attractive to luxury travellers and Four Seasons.

“Having a property in Johannesburg – the gateway to the whole of southern Africa – is essential as we explore opportunities for growth in South Africa, and across the continent. With our recently established development office in Dubai, we plan to be much more active in Africa.”

In 2012 the company opened Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Tanzania – a resort in the Serengeti National Park – featuring 77 guestrooms, including 12 suites with plunge pools and five freestanding villas with private swimming pools as well as a signature spa facility.

The Spa Business magzine Spaforesight™ report has predicted that Africa will be a significant development market for the spa industry. Read the full report online here: www.spaforesight.com