When travelling near and... not so far
The closer we get to the end of the year, the more we need a break. Sadly, the holiday season is not quite here yet, so, for this month’s travel blog, we feature places that promise you an escape close to home (but far enough away from your worries). Whether you're travelling for work, with family and friends, or taking a solo journey, we've got you covered.
A refreshed Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa
Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa has a new spring in its step thanks to Nelson Kubheka of Omni Design, with a recent reimagining of the hotel's indoor and outdoor spaces, along with a fresh take on all its menus. If you’re in the mood for food and drinks, in an ambience of upmarket elegance, head to the award-winning luxury hotel's Qunu restaurant, Olive Bar, Piano Lounge, and The Terrace. Executive Chef of Qunu restaurant, Matthew Foxon, has crafted an offering that marries South Africa's culinary heritage with contemporary influences, in a chic and inviting setting, filled with natural light and banquette-style seating. At the expanded Olive Bar, you can snuggle into a plush nook and enjoy a light meal, while sipping on a signature cocktail in the rays of the setting sun. If it is sophistication you’re after, Piano Lounge is perfect. Add breakfast, light meals, or decadent afternoon or morning tea to a view of the pool, and the lounge’s seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living, and you have a the most luxurious holiday on your doorstep. Finally, if you want to catch some sunlight with your meal, The Terrace is the place, with lovely pool views fringed by greenery, plus tasty dishes and plenty of sunshine.
Combine a visit to Alto234 with an overnight stay at The Leonardo
While many of you are probably familiar with The Leonardo's sky-high Champagne bar, Alto234, now is your chance to top off the experience by making a night of it and staying over at the hotel. The Leonardo is running a special offer that comes with breakfast at Leo’s Lounge and complimentary access to Alto234 along with a glass of Moët & Chandon. At Alto234, you’ll also be treated to an unforgettable view of the city from the tallest building in southern Africa, and a vending machine stocked to the brim with Moët Champagne. In the morning enjoy an art walk of The Leonardo and breakfast at Leo's Lounge. Within walking distance from Sandton City (we recommend the Diamond Walk), Nelson Mandela Square, and the Gautrain Station, it’s the perfect place to take a break without leaving the city. See details of the offer here.
A historic and wild collaboration – Ardmore x Fairlawns Boutique Hotel
Known for bringing together artistry and luxury, the team at Ardmore Ceramics has a new ace up their sleeve: a collaboration with Fairlawns Boutique Hotel. We recently attended the launch of the Ardmore Satara Suite. Experiences of the wild inspired this first-of-its-kind collaboration which has seen an incredible eight-metre mural brought to life in a hotel room by two of Ardmore's talented artists, Sydney Hadebe and Wiseman Mpofu. Named after the Princess of the Rocky Hill, the Ardmore Satara Suite is a testament to what is possible when creative visionaries come together. Initiated by Fairlawns Boutique Hotel's managing director Michael Kewley and in collaboration with Fee Halsted, founder of Ardmore, the hand-painted mural transports you to the heart of luxurious and verdant Africa. It is replete with proteas, vines, leaves, flowers, and wild cats, all depicted in popping colours against a black background. The design team has also filled the suite with delicate Ardmore ceramics, opulent fabrics, and hand-crafted furniture. It has a private balcony, a jet bath (oh yes!), and a fireplace to help you ward off the last of the winter chills. If you’re in the mood to be treated like royalty, this is the place.
AtholPlace Hotel & Villa reopens for visitors
Situated in the leafy suburb of Atholl, AtholPlace Hotel & Villa hasn't been open to the public since 2020. Now, to the great excitement of travellers, the property has been repositioned as a boutique hotel rather than an exclusive-use property. With a choice of deluxe rooms, superior suites, and the magnificent King Room, there is something for every taste and need. Cue French balconies, views of the pool, and soft tones, all of which give the hotel an understated, tranquil elegance. For larger groups, there is AtholPlace Villa, which has a private garden, a private pool, and a boma. AtholPlace Hotel & Villa also offers breakfast, all-day dining, room service, and a private chef. We'll be visiting soon for a preview so watch this space for more.
The Forum Company: The Forum The Campus
As we know, so much of travel in and to Joburg is for work, something that was hard hit by the Covid years. And with that in mind, we were pleased to see the exciting revival and reinvigoration of one of the city's landmark conferencing and venue spaces, The Forum The Campus in Bryanston. We have always loved the art-filled spaces curated by founder Glynis Hyslop, who also created Turbine Art Fair, along with the light-filled atrium space and courtyards. For its latest iteration, The Forum has taken things to a whole new level. Featuring renovated galleries and bars, upgraded state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, improved lighting and ambience, and reimagined garden spaces where you can relax and socialise, The Forum The Campus seamlessly blends work and leisure spaces. We are also excited about the new venue in the works, The Forum Hyde Park, set to be unveiled in Oct 2024.
Stable lofts at Farmhouse58 in the cradle of luxury
Popular with many travellers, Farmhouse58 has an exciting reveal: a collection of stable lofts. There are 13 beautiful new rooms, where you can reconnect with your environment, friends and family, or even yourself. Situated in the heart of the Cradle of Humankind, Farmhouse58 is more than a holiday destination – it is a retreat (and a real treat!) that will work magic on your mid-year blues. In keeping with their motto, "simple luxury," Farmhouse58's new Stable Lofts are luxurious without being ostentatious. Farmhouse58 prides itself on good service, beautiful design, and fostering a connection with our environment and heritage. Amongst the hills of the Cradle of Humankind, you'll find that keeping it simple is sometimes the best way to clear your head.
When travelling further away
Joburg can be the perfect holiday destination, but that is not all South Africa has to offer. From Cape Town to the Kruger, there are some great places to visit if you want to leave the city. We checked out Curiocity Kloof Street, Tintswalo Boulders Spa, and FlySafair's new route from Joburg to the Kruger National Park.Curiocity: From Maboneng to the Mother City
Curiocity in Maboneng is a favourite amongst adventurous and budget travellers. They have the 'poshtel' concept down. Perfect for the curious traveller, Curiocity has rooms to suit every budget, and if you’re travelling to Cape Town, you’re in luck, because Curiocity Kloof Street just opened its doors, a second property for the brand in that city. Every Curiocity hotel and hostel aims to give its visitors an authentic city experience. For those wishing to explore Cape Town, Curiocity Kloof Street offers fun common areas where you can meet fellow travellers, a braai area (obviously), and a spectacular view of Table Mountain. It is also within walking distance from Kloof Street’s many eateries, bars, and coffee shops. Make a booking at any Curiocity property with our code JHBINYOURPOCKET to get 10% off.Relax at Tintswalo Boulders' new spa
If the mid-year blues are getting you down, we have just the thing: try the new Tintswalo Boulders spa at Boulders Beach, Simon’s Town. While you might be familiar with the Tintswalo Collection – and perhaps Tintswalo Boulders – the addition of the spa has us (not unlike the penguins of Simon's Town) chirping with sheer excitement. We could wax lyrical about the extraordinary views, the unforgettable sunsets, and the architectural beauty of the spa (and these are all things worthy of being lyrical about). But for the weary traveller, the most exciting feature is undoubtedly the services they offer. Think a heated, indoor plunge pool, facials, and massages; think manis, pedis, and Tintswalo’s signature treatment, the Full Body Ocean Journey. It's head-to-toe pampering and glasses of Champagne… with a view (because it does matter!) of the penguins of Boulders Beach.
Protecting the mountains of Cape Town
If, like many Joburgers, you spend time in Cape Town for the love of the mountains, you'll be delighted to hear that a partnership between The Cobras Mountain Protection Team, the City Bowl, and property developer Blok has seen the implementation of a new initiative that aims to create safer mountain experiences for local and international visitors. As part of this initiative, the areas around Signal Hill, Camps Bay, and Lion's Head are being patrolled regularly by dedicated guards. The hope is that the increased presence of patrols in these areas will restore confidence to hikers and travellers, and reduce the incidence of criminal activities. "Residents and visitors to Cape Town should enjoy our beautiful mountain securely and with peace of mind," says the management committee. So put on your running or hiking shoes or hop on your mountain bike, because Cape Town's mountain routes are once again the place to be.
Thornybush Game Lodge makes it to the top 10
There is nothing that makes us as South Africans prouder than seeing one of our own thrive in the global arena. Today, the source of our pride is Thornybush Game Lodge in the Greater Kruger Park, which made it into Travel + Leisure's 2024 top 10 list of Favourite Safari Lodges in Africa. So, if you were looking for an excuse to go on a wildlife adventure, this is it. In addition to its "classic safari charm," Thornybush Game Lodge boasts a range of accommodation options that include indoor and outdoor showers, and bathtubs that overlook private decks. They also have conference facilities, a gym, a library, a pool, a boma, a bar, and a spa. To make sure you fully embrace this relaxing experience, they offer deluxe services such as wake-up calls and babysitting, and they promise to entertain you with their iconic bush breakfasts and dinners (which include Chef Solly's legendary oxtail stew!). Most important of all, the lodge has Wi-Fi and mobile coverage, and solar power (for when those truly South African moments strike).
FlySafair: Joburg to the Kruger National Park
Pack your bags and lock up your (kids?!), because we’re heading to the Kruger! Thanks to FlySafair’s new direct route from OR Tambo International Airport to Mbombela Airport, having a wildlife adventure is easier than ever. For prices as low as R950, you too can explore this truly South African gem. Whether it’s a lion sighting, a game drive, or cocktails with a view of the bushveld you’re after, FlySafair has you covered. It's a fantastic addition to local travel.
Comments