There are certain bragging rights that come with being the first of your friends to stay at the luxurious 5 star Houghton Hotel. Be it the location, the room, the food or even the magnificent sunsets you will encounter you are sure to make your friends green with envy.
Walking into the lobby of The Houghton is like walking into a 6/ 7 star European hotel . There are elaborate chain curtains and electric sofas , the staircase that spirals demanding your attention, people buzzing around , it exudes a soothing , residential air despite its cavernous size.
What is the story ?
The R870 million hotel designed by Boogertman and Partners was finished in 2018, with final construction contracted to Stefanutti Stocks. Built in a park – like setting in Johannesburg’s greenbelt, with close proximity to top retail outlets and major business districts it has contributed to the hotel gaining entry into the exclusive club of Leading Hotels of the World .
The effect is at once exciting and reassuring , this is a brand new and modern hotel thats in love with its right to supply luxury and a unique living experience.
One of the factors that boosts the property into accommodation orbit is the handiwork of interior designers DSGN, who cast their brand of South African luxury stardust far and wide.
What is in your room ?
The rooms are radiant, with a sense of easy – going opulence. From the moment you open your door you feel the warmth and welcoming of the room as you are beckoned inside.
All rooms come with a view of either the Signature Jack Nicklaus Golf course or the large swimming pools and lush gardens
Its tempting to stay under the covers of the comfy bed and stare at the changing colours of the African skyline all day long or enjoy a good film on the large TV adorning the wall, ordering room service when you feel peckish.
A freestanding bathtub fashioned for frolicking, an imaginative minibar , a Nespresso coffee machine and here’s the best thing, no paintings are stuck on the wall. Instead , there’s art in the form of free falling canvas piece that gently sways in the breeze when the sliding door is open.
Food and drink
The H restaurant offers a stylish a la carte menu for lunch and dinner with an extensive wine list. The open kitchen is deliciously theatrical , with Executive Chef George Georgiou. scooting around with his bold creations, be it the salmon that I found mouth watering or succulent steak
Nova deli is the sort of place you want to spend all afternoon – sipping on lattes, especially when staff are on hand to deliver you fresh slices of cake. This international deli is the perfect location for business meetings and friendly catch-ups. The comfy chairs make it difficult leave and the strong wifi connection makes it ideal to sit and browse the internet.
The sky bar bubbles with a cool set of people from all walks of life, and attracts locals as well as people from out of town. Overlooking the golf course , this unique and vibrant setting is the ideal spot to watch the sunset. As the evenings get chilly the outdoor tables come alive with dancing flames to keep one warm as you snuggle up and sip on cocktails.
The Spa
How do you drag yourself away from the poolside lounges and head off to the spa when you are dizzy with relaxation? its a question thats easy to answer once you have experienced a full body massage from Amani Spa. Featuring a couples suite with a heated plunge pool, 8 multi functional treatment rooms, a grand Rasul, hair and beauty salon and nail bar, an indoor relaxation area and a unique hot and cold spa vitality pool. Amani is a prestigious spa that adds to the hotels overall lifestyle ethos.
Choosing from the massage menu, is no easy task. This state of the art facility is the collections flagship branch in Johannesburg. Founded by Ronleigh Gaddin in 2006, she has operated spas in exotic locations like luxury bush retreats as well as urban hubs. Armani Spas have received several awards in recognition of their excellence , of which I can fully attest to . Omi was professional and made my pamper experience a memorable one, with a smile on her face it was probably the best massage I have had in a long time.
Its easy to kid yourself that you are feel happy to leave, but the reality is after having spent a blissful weekend in a hotel that hums with activity and has phenomenal views and delicious meals who wants to go back to a gruelling week of work ? This peaceful pocket of living is surreal ,embracing the style and comfort you have come to expect.
www.thehoughtonhotel.com
www.amanispas.co.za
