The Guidebook to The Peech Hotel: Johannesburg
One of our valued staff members – Lisa – recently visited the fabulous Peech Hotel in Johannesburg and is pleased to provide her first hand feedback and insider tips.
Location
The property is conveniently located just 2 or 3 blocks from the famous Melrose Arch precinct, with a park situated directly across the road. Although I was on a self-drive and found it easily using Google Maps, you will typically be transferred by one of our knowledgeable Safari365 representatives, who are very familiar with the area. During the day, it’s an easy stroll to Melrose Arch to explore the shops and restaurants, though it might feel a bit too far for an evening walk.
Accommodation
This isn’t a typical hotel with a central reception and lifts to bedroom floors above. Instead, the reception and restaurant are housed in the main building, while the guest rooms are nestled within the gardens, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely stroll through a serene two-acre setting.
I stayed in one of the classic rooms on the ground floor. There are 14 classic rooms in total, spread across the ground and first floors. All were renovated in the past year, each featuring unique colour schemes, though the overall décor and furniture are consistent throughout. What I particularly enjoyed was the ability to open the double wooden doors onto a private terrace, offering a sense of seclusion. Despite the garden setting, you still feel very much in a city hotel. The first-floor rooms benefit from spacious balconies, each furnished with two chairs and a table. The rooms are thoughtfully equipped with heaters in the bathroom and bedroom, heated towel rails, and electric blankets, ensuring you’re always warm, even in winter.
I also had the opportunity to view the two-bedroom family villa in the centre of the property, as well as the luxury rooms and suites. The décor throughout the rooms and the villa is beautifully done. The two suites, each measuring 65 square metres, are located on the first floor and offer stunning views of the meticulously landscaped gardens. I was informed that they will soon be adding an organic food and herb garden, which will be a lovely addition.
Dining
There is a six-course fine dining restaurant called Basalt, which is open three times a week. When we checked in, I was informed that the restaurant was fully booked, so I do recommend pre-booking as it is open to the public.
I had dinner at the stylish in-house bistro, which is exclusively for in-house guests. There was a cosy fireplace in the corner, perfect for the cooler winter evening. The menu choice is relatively small; however, it covers all dietary requirements. I enjoyed a delicious tomato and basil pasta paired with a Bouchard Finlayson wine. I visited in winter, but if the weather is pleasant, I would suggest dining outside in the garden among the lush greenery.
The leisurely breakfast is à la carte, offering a wide variety of dishes, from healthy choices like granola, fresh fruit, and yoghurt to heartier options such as eggs Benedict, omelettes, and freshly baked pastries. You can sit on the wide, shady terrace and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, or in the indoor dining area. We had the friendliest waitress, who really made us feel welcome. The ambience is relaxed yet sophisticated, making it a perfect start to the day.
Recreational Facilities
There are 2 refreshing swimming pools, which further enhances the guest experience, for a more relaxing and enjoyable experience. There were many umbrellas and sun loungers for comfort.
A cosy lounge near the reception area was available, with a roaring fire welcoming me upon arrival. Right next door, there’s a Planet Fitness gym, so if you’re in the mood to exercise, you can easily join a class or two.
Overall Thoughts of Your Stay?
What really stood out to me was how quiet it was. You didn’t hear voices or have people walking past your room down a corridor like a normal hotel. So for those who prefer a bit more peace and tranquillity, then this is for you.
All the staff were so welcoming and friendly from the reception staff to the waitrons and even when we were parking the car, the security made us feel so at home. Staff are attentive, friendly, and quick to address any needs that I had, reflecting a well-managed and organised establishment. I also feel that the hotel management and all the staff maintain a high standard of service and hospitality.
Gabrielle the General Manager showed me around the property and what was so evident is the emphasis on sustainability and responsible tourism and they were recently re-accredited with Fair Trade Tourism and have been members since 2010.
The property is celebrating their 20th anniversary in November, but all the rooms look almost brand new, which to me means it reflects a commitment to quality, cleanliness, and attention to detail. Outdoor spaces, including gardens, patios, and courtyards, are well-kept, with trimmed plants, clean furniture, and inviting seating areas.
The Peech was described by Condé Nast Traveller as “Contemporary, edgy and Afrocentric”, and has been nominated as South Africa’s Leading Boutique Hotel for the last six consecutive years. I can most certainly see why and I did notice a lot of award certificates on the wall by the reception desk. To sum it up I really recommend The Peech and I am proud that Safari365 works with a property that makes such an effort and has attention to detail and our clients will have such an enjoyable stay.
Looking to embark on your trip to Johannesburg? Choosing The Peech Hotel provides the perfect spot for all the city has to offer. Start planning your South Africa trip today, contact us.
