Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa

At the Saxon, they create their own standards. Every detail is considered, from the quality of the food to the warm hospitality's finer points. You can expect only the best. The best is what they know. It is entrenched in the roots of their African spirit. On arrival at the Saxon, you will be greeted warmly by the arrivals staff and the Concierge, working together as a family to ensure your stay is an unforgettable one.

The sense of space, the landscaped gardens, and a remarkable infinity pool set a serene backdrop for a restful journey. You become aware of the sights and sounds and the warm atmosphere as you arrive at the entrance with its sweeping staircase. The lounge and terrace offer views over the gardens. The weather in Johannesburg is idyllic all year round. The summer afternoon thunderstorms followed by expansive rainbows leave a memorable impression you will take away with you.

The hotel treats every day as a journey to make you feel at home. At sunrise, the Chefs visit the vegetable garden to handpick the day’s ingredients, which will inspire the seasonal menus. The tables are laid, the gardens are tended to, fresh flowers are arranged, and the Butlers prepare themselves for a day of service. The team continues to work behind the scenes to make your stay pleasurable and enjoyable throughout the day. The Pastry Chefs are masters at crafting delectable pastries for an indulgent High Tea. You will always feel at home, whether you choose to relax on the sunlit terrace or enjoy a leisurely lunch under the canopy of fig trees.

The Concierge is on hand at all times to assist with information and advice. In the evening, as the Butlers turn down the beds and add the final touches to your rooms, the Chefs and Sommeliers are preparing for dinner. You can take in the spectacular African sunset before heading to one of the Saxon restaurants for an unforgettable culinary experience. Every day at the Saxon is different and brings a renewed sense of adventure. This Africa that beckons you, the Africa that will leave you with a lifetime of memories.

Restaurants & Bars - "Qunu" - Extends a warm African welcome, enticing you with its rich surroundings, red tones, woven lampshades, and an ambient glow, enhanced by the remarkable hanging gardens. Beyond the hanging gardens, the doors open onto the Fig Terrace, where guests can dine under the striking canopy of fig trees. With its picturesque indoor-outdoor atmosphere Qunu exudes a sense of being an intrinsic part of Africa. Qunu pays homage to its South African roots, being named in honor of the small rural town that the beloved elder statesman, former President Nelson Mandela loved to call home, hoping you will too.

"Grei" - There is great beauty to be found in simplicity. It exudes intimacy and sophistication. Grei at the Saxon invites you to indulge in delicious dishes created by Head Chef Candice Philip. Grei replaces rush with serenity. The cuisine is succulent and textural, with herbaceous and natural themes. Grei, which loosely translates from Portuguese as “a society of people,” blends Chef Candice’s love of unusual pairings, her passion for herbaceous flavors, and her signature style of intricately-plated dishes. Appropriately, her menu has the aroma and flavor of the herbs running through it. Dishes feature unusual pairings and natural, succulent flavors. The menu highlights the three key flavors from each dish. The menu is a six-course tasting menu, paired with a combination of international and local wines. There is also be a non-alcoholic pairing option as well as vegetarian- and pescatarian-suited menus. Within the first year of opening, Grei was nominated as World’s Leading Fine Dining Hotel Restaurant 2018 by the World Travel Awards – and again in 2019. In their first year of being eligible, Grei was awarded a 2 plate rating by JHP Gourmet Guide – ‘exceptional dining that demands a detour.’

"The Terrace" - Is the central meeting point of the Saxon. It is the perfect setting for relaxation and taking in the abundant birdlife while enjoying a refreshing cup of tea, cocktail, or a delicious lunch from dawn to dusk. The Terrace menu offers a varied selection of light meals throughout the day. Discover salads made with handpicked ingredients from the vegetable garden, succulent hamburgers, and the freshest fish and seafood. The imaginative combination of fresh ingredients with superior flavor offers various culinary creations designed to tempt and surprise every palate. As the day unfolds, you will see the Chefs going to the vegetable garden to get inspiration and pick fresh ingredients for the day's special menus. The terrace is ideal for experiencing the glorious African sunshine over a long leisurely lunch or afternoon sundowners.

"The Olive Bar" - The perfect setting for relaxing over pre-dinner drinks before moving on to Qunu or Grei. The stylish, sophisticated Olive Bar, leading off the Terrace and just past the impressive Koi pond, is ideal for enjoying sundowners and cocktails. It is decorated in natural textures and neutral tones that reflect a contemporary African look and feel. This is the perfect setting for relaxing over pre-dinner drinks before moving on to Qunu or Grei.

The Saxon SPA - Step into the Saxon Spa, an oasis nestled in its unique surroundings. Cascading water features, a signature fireplace, and influences of copper and Himalayan salts set the backdrop for a restful journey. This metropolitan spa offers holistic disciplines of a spa journey, giving the guests time to rediscover a healthy and discerning lifestyle.