"No request is too difficult" is the motto by which owner Sylvia Basch runs this small guesthouse in the pretty suburb of Parkview, located just a stone's throw from the green surrounds of Joburg's Zoo Lake. From speedy WiFi, DSTV and a desk to catch up on work, to a Nespresso machine in the room for that morning coffee, Egyptian cotton sheets, an umbrella for those rainy days and a even picnic hamper (these should be ordered in advance), there's nothing that hasn't been thought of.

Sylvia, who prides herself on her attention to detail (the nightly turndown with chocolates on your pillow is a lovely touch), also recognises that what many guests prize most about staying in a guesthouse is a sense of peace and privacy. Zoo Lake B&B offers both in abundance. There's a choice of two en-suite guest rooms, both with their own private entrances and patios overlooking the peaceful guesthouse gardens. Stylishly decorated in a subtle style that gently mixes contemporary colourful upholstery and African-inspired artworks with period 1930s features, the rooms at Zoo Lake B&B are immaculate and a restful sleep is guaranteed.

After a good night’s rest, the breakfast served in the guesthouse Winter Garden is an absolute treat. A gorgeous breakfast spread awaits (served on delicate porcelain that is a family heirloom) with ingredients sourced from local farms. Sylvia strives to serve something slightly different every day, although breakfast always includes a fresh fruit platter and freshly baked bread and pastries accompanied by a cheese and cold meats or smoked salmon platter. A full English breakfast is also available on request, and Sylvia's divine French omelette is a signature must-try dish.

After breakfast take a dip in the large guesthouse pool or head out for some sightseeing. The stop for the open-top City Sightseeing bus is just a short walk away (book your tickets online in advance) as is the lovely village-like high street Tyrone Avenue. Meanwhile Rosebank with its many shops, galleries and Gautrain station is less than 10 minutes drive away, from where you can catch a train to the airport in less than 20 minutes.

Native German speaker Syvlia (who also speaks English and Afrikaans) can also help guests to organise airport transfers and book you a city tour with an Italian, German or English speaking guide.

Zoo Lake B&B is a member of the Johannesburg Guesthouses network, which offers an excellent range of more than 20 owner-run guesthouses all based in and around the beautiful northern suburbs of Rosebank and The Parks. See the booking website johannesburg-guesthouses.co.za for the full range of options.