For those who of you who never once imagined that Johannesburg could be described as ‘beautiful’, we guarantee you that a stay at the Four Seasons Hotel will change your mind.
Located in the upmarket residential enclave of Westcliff, this unlikely postcode for a hotel this size makes perfect sense once you’re sitting on the edge of its restaurant Flames, looking out onto an un-surpassing view of the city.
Staggered over one side of the ridge; it feels more like a Tuscan hillside village than a Four Seasons hotel. Their no car policy means you are carted up and down the steep cobbled hill, from your room to reception, in nothing other than traditional golf carts (much to everyone’s amusement). Its cobbled stones make it difficult to walk in heels so ladies, take note. But if you fancy a bit of cardio, you can meander up and down the hill, and be sure to pop your head into the rose garden to admire the view from a perfectly placed bench.
The décor is soothing and translated throughout the space, from staff uniform through to the downstairs Deli. Its grey and beige palate is occasionally accented with brightly coloured pieces yet maintains a calming sensibility throughout. Rooms are luxurious but not uncomfortable as high-end hotels sometimes are. In fact, it’s quite the opposite; you will struggle to get out of bed. But the light from the horizon will pull you from under your duvet, leaving you mesmerised and reaffirming that there is nothing more glorious than an African sun rising or setting.
Dining at the Four Seasons is also an experience. The new Delicatessen serves light snacks and salads, fresh juices, and pastries so good you’ll keep coming back for days. Flames, the hotel’s main restaurant serves a vast and delicious a la carte breakfast menu and dinner is equally scrumptious. But the coup-de-grâce? Sipping your aperitif on the restaurant’s infinity edge overlooking the lush green canopy dotted with purple Jacaranda’s. Murmurs are heard around the restaurant of the city’s unrecognised beauty from both foreigners and locals.
Despite the hotel’s scale, one never gets a true sense of its actual size. Gently nestled on the side of this cliff, it’s hidden from view wherever you stand. It feels private, personal and you never seem to meet too many guests. A labyrinth at times, friendly staff appear just at the right moment to help re-direct you. There is nothing garish or corporate about this hotel. A stay at the Four Seasons is a soothing experience and a place you will want to revisit, over and over again.
Looking for more local and international recommendations? Read our latest review, here.
