At Leeuwenzee Guest House we believe that true hospitality goes beyond providing a comfortable stay, it’s also about making responsible choices that protect and preserve the planet we all share.
Since our reopening after the challenges of Covid-19, we’ve embraced a commitment to sustainability in every aspect of our operations. From energy and water conservation to waste reduction and local sourcing, we’re proving that luxury and eco-conscious living can go hand in hand.
Whether you’re booking a short stay or a longer self-catering getaway, your time at our 18-room guest house in Sea Point, Cape Town, directly supports our journey towards a greener future.
1. Solar Powered for a Cleaner Tomorrow
Cape Town’s sunny climate is one of our greatest natural assets and we’re making the most of it.
We’ve installed a powerful solar energy system to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels and keep our lights on during load-shedding, all while reducing our carbon footprint. Our shift to renewable energy means your stay is powered by sunshine.
To maximise energy efficiency, we’ve made several smart upgrades:
- LED lighting in every room and common area
- Energy-efficient appliances that use less power without sacrificing performance
- Double-glazed windows, which improve insulation and reduce the need for heating or cooling
- We’ve also installed two advanced heat pumps and an automated building management system that intelligently regulates geyser temperatures, so hot water is always available but never wasted
- Air conditioning units, which are automatically turned off in unoccupied rooms
Together, these systems allow us to reduce our energy use while maintaining the comfort and warmth our guests expect.
2. Mindful Water Use — Every Drop Matters
Cape Town knows firsthand the importance of water conservation, and so do we.
At Leeuwenzee, we’ve undertaken several upgrades and practices to ensure we use water as efficiently and responsibly as possible:
- All bathrooms now feature low-flow showerheads and dual-flush toilets
- We’ve replaced traditional fabric bath mats with Diatomaceous Earth Stone Mats — a stylish, hygienic, and fast-drying alternative
To reduce unnecessary water usage:
- We conduct daily leak inspections
- Towels and bed linen are replaced every three days, or more often if you request it — reducing water and detergent use without compromising hygiene or comfort
While space constraints currently prevent the installation of a rainwater harvesting system, we are exploring innovative options for the future.
3. Minimising Waste, Maximising Impact
Sustainability isn’t just about energy and water, it’s also about what we throw away. At Leeuwenzee, we take a hands-on approach to waste reduction and recycling.
Here’s how we’re cutting down on landfill waste:
- We separate and recycle all glass, paper, cardboard, tin, plastic, metal, and e-waste on-site
- Our kitchen waste is treated with Bokashi, an eco-friendly composting method that speeds up decomposition. The compost is then fed to our resident composting worms, turning food scraps into rich organic soil conditioner for our plants
We’ve also taken steps to reduce single-use plastics:
- Outdated plastic keycards have been replaced with digital keypad locks, reducing both waste and maintenance
- We’ve done away with miniature toiletries in favour of refillable containers filled with high-quality, locally made bath products, better for the environment and more elegant for our guests
4. Supporting Local, Choosing Wisely
We believe sustainability also means supporting the community around us.
That’s why we prioritise locally sourced goods from the breakfast ingredients we serve each morning, to the guest amenities and décor featured throughout the property.
By sourcing from nearby farmers, independent artisans, and small South African businesses, we:
- Reduce transport-related emissions
- Support the local economy
- Offer our guests a truly authentic Cape Town experience
It’s a win for the environment and a win for our community.
Looking Forward: A Greener Future at Leeuwenzee
We’re incredibly proud of the sustainability milestones we’ve reached so far but this is just the beginning.
Our next major goal? To achieve official eco-certification in sustainable tourism and hospitality by 2026. This will formalise our commitment to eco-friendly practices and align Leeuwenzee with global standards of responsible travel.
Because for us, taking care of our guests means taking care of the planet too.
When you choose to stay at Leeuwenzee, you’re not just choosing a beautiful place to stay, you’re choosing to be part of a positive change.
To view our room and rates click here.