Protea Hotels, Africa's largest hotel operating company, is now expanding on its Superior-Deluxe range under the African Pride Hotels and Lodges portfolio, with the addition of four deluxe properties. The African Pride brand will undergo a name change to African Pride Hotels, Lodges and Country Houses, to accommodate the new deluxe country houses that are joining the portfolio.

This 5-star brand was originally launched in 2001 to coincide with the beginning of a significant growth in the tourism industry in Southern Africa and has become recognized for its quality products. "The African Pride brand is acknowledged for its quality and luxury, boasting properties such as the Melrose Arch Hotel," said Danny Bryer, Group Sales and Marketing Director for Protea Hotels.

Four renowned 5-star country houses, aimed at the individual traveller, have been added to this Superior-Deluxe range, giving the African Pride Brand a broader offering. These are namely the Andros Country House, a gracious Cape Dutch homestead dating back to the early 1900's and situated in the one of Cape Town's most beautiful suburbs; and the Rosenhof Country House, a Victoria homestead with a history dating as far back as the 1800's, situated on the outskirts of Oudtshoorn en route to the world famous Cango Caves. A further two country houses can be found in the Eastern Cape, namely The Sands in the coastal town of St Francis Bay and Hacklewood Hill Country House in Port Elizabeth.

These country houses are in good company, joining the famous Melrose Arch Hotel, Tinga Private Game Lodge and Pumba Private Game Reserve, as part of the African Pride Hotels & Lodges portfolio.