Johannesburg
South Africa


The Experience

A former private magnate residence in the exclusive Sandhurst suburb of Johannesburg, the Saxon was famously Nelson Mandela's refuge when he was released from Robben Island. A refuge it still remains, for those who want to escape hectic Johannesburg. Secure and private, hidden behind high walls and coral trees in six acres of lush garden, the hotel keeps the city at arm's length. Water is exploited to accentuate the sense of sanctuary, and nowhere more so than with the enormous swimming pool. Peace and tranquillity aside, however, the Saxon has established itself as the nerve-center for Joburg's glamorous: resident and visiting film stars, politicians and models congregate in the piano lounge, smoking room and library.

The Rooms

Overlooking the landscaped gardens or pool area, all 24 suites successfully espouse a sense of ethnic chic without slipping into tribal craft-kitsch. The African artwork, sculptures and fabrics sit well beside collections of contemporary black-and-white framed photographs within cool, pared-down interiors. The generous sense of space in each suite is accentuated by oversize everything -- from giant plasma-screen television and beds to enormous bathtubs and double sinks. Only occasionally does design take precedence over practicality; electronic control panels are useful design touches, but semi-open-plan lavatories with glass doors close to the bed are less welcome. The largest 5,400-square-feet suites are worth paying extra for only if you require separate dining, sitting areas and extra bedroom.

The Service

With three staff to every guest, you can understand why the hotel has built a reputation on the quality of its service, which prides itself on being able to meet all guests' keenest demands. Every suite is assigned its own butler, who does more than just decant your underwear from suitcase into drawer; butlers act as guides to the city, suggesting tours and booking services.

The Highlights

Try to have your visit coincide with the famous Sunday brunch in the airy atrium restaurant. It gives you a chance to ogle the locals who come to quaff champagne on the house and help themselves to buffets groaning with seafood, oysters, prawn and lobster or the famous chocolate desserts. The restaurant also boasts one of the most impressive wine lists in the country, with vintages displayed across several walls of the mezzanine level (and accessed by a spiral staircase), a perfect opportunity to sample the famous wines for which South Africa is justly famed.

-- Catherine Fairweather

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