If tree-lined streets and sunshine-dappled gardens are your cup of tea, then the Saxon Hotel in Johannesburg's affluent suburb of Sandhurst is for you. Every bit of your stay will exude indulgence, from the delectable meals and scrumptious afternoon teas to the relaxing spa and comfortable suites and villas. Enjoy evening or morning walks around the 10 acres of beautiful gardens and, when you've had about as much relaxation as you can handle, head to the stylish Olive Bar for sundowner cocktails and a laugh with friends.
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Welcome to a world where indulgent food is celebrated. Enjoy a buffet brunch on the Fig Terrace (great for Sunday family treats). Sun over the yardarm? Head to the Olive Bar for pre-dinner cocktails, then to The Terrace for a light meal or to Luke Dale Roberts X the Saxon for a fine-dining five- or eight-course tasting menu. If uncomplicated but hearty grub is your preference, Qunu has you covered. Finally, retreat to the Cigar Lounge for a single malt.
Stay in one of the hotel's luxuriously elegant suites, or opt for a more private villa. All are furnished in marble, dark wood and geometric prints, with top-of-the-range amenities such as generous en-suite bathrooms with a large bath and walk-in shower, and hard-to-resist king-sized beds. Swing open the shutters for views of the garden, city skyline and pool terrace, then amble to your lounge and dining area, where a business desk means you can transit from relaxation to work instantly.
Treat yourself to morning and afternoon tea. With perfectly infused brews and gorgeous mini pastries and cakes to threaten your waistline, teatime is a great occasion to sit back and chat with friends. If less talk and more indulgence is on the menu, escape to the spa, with its cascading water features and warming fireplace. There's a feast for your eyes too – the hotel has an impressive collection of artworks. The Saxon is a guaranteed Hakuna matata environment.
Spoiling yourself in the spa. Our favourite is the Rasul Spa Ritual, a 45-minute pamper session in the Byzantine-styled room where body exfoliations, masks and a revitalising "rain forest" shower await.
Be sure to order the steak Diane at the in-house Qunu Restaurant. They make it just how Nelson Mandela liked it when he stayed here. Oh, and did we mention the restaurant is a member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, an international association of gastronomy?
There is a sense of formality at the Saxon which might not appeal to everyone.
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11 nights from $6.7K per person
14 nights from $10.1K per person
14 nights from $8.5K per person
10 nights from $15.4K per person
Saxon Hotel can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made South Africa trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended South Africa trips featuring Saxon Hotel or get advice and suggestions from one of our South Africa specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Saxon Hotel start from around $990, or US$990, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
The City of Gold is vibrant, diverse and more than worth spending a few extra hours in.
