6 Best Hotels in Sandton, Johannesburg

This gracious boutique hotel, once a private home owned by the Oppenheimer family, has individually decorated suites that mimic classic Eastern and European styles with large windows overlooking the manicured gardens that are spread across 5.7 hectares (14 acres). The large grounds, with their sweeping lawns and rose beds, play host to picnics in summertime and romantic private dinners after sunset. Guests can unwind poolside or at the Balinese-themed spa. There's also a well-equipped gym, an à la carte restaurant, and conference facilities that frequently host weddings.

Africa’s second-tallest building, at 55 stories and 234 meters (767 feet), this hybrid skyscraper stands at the foot of Sandton with panoramic views that stretch beyond Johannesburg’s borders and includes a refined retail space, a contemporary hotel with all the bells and whistles, and residential apartments and luxury penthouses. The hotel's spacious one-, two- and three-bedroomed suites include a fully-equipped kitchen, dining area, a lounge and working area, and a balcony, making them ideal for a longer stay. The hotel is defined by its extensive collection of artwork, in various media, throughout its public areas. Even Aurum (the Latin word for gold), which specializes in modern European fare and serves all-day breakfast, brunch, lunch with a high-end dining experience for dinner, has a golden metal swirl suspended overhead. The restaurant leads out onto the rooftop where there's a swimming pool, gym, spa, and Octo, the wood-fired pool terrace bar. Alto 234 (the continent’s highest bar) requires an online booking and payment (R390) for a 2½ to 3-hour experience that includes a glass of bubbles.

Conveniently situated in the heart of bustling Sandton, the Maslow is a case study in modern, seamless sophistication and, if only for a few moments, you'll forget you're anywhere near a city. Beyond the basics of free high-speed Wi-Fi, universal plug points, and first-class conferencing facilities, business travelers can expect unique offerings like the Incubator Room for out-of-the-box strategy sessions, or the Wayfarer Lounge, which provides a well-equipped work base (equipped with private showers) between flights. Minutes from the Sandton Gautrain station, the Maslow offers a free shuttle service that departs every 15 minutes, also stopping at Sandton City Mall and Nelson Mandela Square. The beautifully designed Africology spa is one of the most unique of its kind in Johannesburg, and the tranquil Oasis Garden is the perfect place for some downtime. Ask for a room on the far side of the wing that overlooks the garden and pool. 

Located just 55 steps from the Sandton Gautrain station, this is a popular destination for international tourists and local business travelers having well-appointed rooms, an outdoor splash pool, and a deck that overlooks Sandton's high-rise buildings. The interior has a bright and modern aesthetic, and clever design elements have been incorporated throughout the hotel to mimic features of the Gautrain station and rail line. The hotel also likes to keep visitors guessing by introducing fresh new concepts to entertainment offerings and food menus, such as Central One’s Full Flavour Board for 2, or a new DJ on the deck every weekend. Ask about the weekly specials.

One of the first luxury hotels to open in Sandton, the Sun has a very upmarket-designer, African feel. Elegant and luxurious, the look draws inspiration from bold earth tones and sculptural baobab trees. Guest rooms are small but classy and superbly laid out, with understated lighting and pared-down furniture. The spa includes eight treatment rooms and offers everything from massages and facials to waxing and manicures.

This 10-room hotel is decorated in a minimalist style with each suite decorated by a different interior designer. Rooms are spacious with separate lounges and bedrooms, a fireplace, and wraparound balconies. The restaurant, Winehouse (named after a large painting of Amy Winehouse), receives consistently good reviews and serves a melange of cuisines from around the world, which are often complemented with fresh vegetables and herbs from the hotel's organic garden.