In the tony suburb of Sandhurst, South Africa, affixed to and interwoven with the city of Johannesburg, The Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa welcomes guests into a carefully manicured oasis.
The history of the Saxon dates back to the 1980s when Douw Steyn, one of South Africa’s leading captains of industry and founder of an international insurance empire, acquired six acres of prime residential property on which to build his dream home. The property was to be named the Saxon, bearing the Steyn coat of arms.
Originally designed as an exclusive, luxurious private residential retreat, it was later developed into the ultimate boutique hotel destination of choice for some of the world’s most celebrated personalities.
The Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa will be celebrating its twentieth anniversary in 2020, having opened their doors in April 2000 as a 26-suite luxury hotel and executive conference centre. 2025 marks 25 years of excellence in unparalleled hospitality for the establishment. Celebrating this milestone reflects an unwavering commitment to delivering world-class experiences.
Since opening its doors, the Saxon has redefined luxury hospitality in South Africa, seamlessly blending heritage, innovation, and a deep appreciation for African culture.
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The hotel’s story? Originally built as a private residence, the Saxon became a haven for statesmen, celebrities, and guests.
It is a great boon not being bound by the rules of a brand.
The heart of the Saxon lies in the team bringing the hotel to life daily - every member of this team living the Saxon ethos that no request is too much, nothing is impossible.
In the words of the long serving managing director of the Saxon, George Cohen: “The Saxon has a fabled history within South African culture, a historic landmark with a notable past and a heritage we are proud of.
He added: “Our experience is an authentic reflection of our surroundings which imparts a sense of harmony and wellbeing and delivers lasting memories to each guest that enters through our doors.
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“Our unique sense of hospitality is what sets us apart.
“It is not what we do, but it is the way in which we do it.
“We continuously strive to create an environment for our guests where they can embrace a sense of value and belonging; a place where your surroundings form a natural extension of your own life.
It is definitely due to our intuitive service as well as the ability we have, by virtue of not being part of a group, to not be restricted by a norm or a corporate mindset,” he says.
“This also allows us to build special relationships, not only with our guests but also with our suppliers.
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The Saxon has 330 staff, of whom five have been there since the hotel’s opening. “People only leave when they re-locate,” said Cohen.
An old-fashioned guest book, with pen provided of course, bears testimony to guests’ appreciation of the service.
Apart from a reputation for luxury, the Saxon is deeply committed to uplifting communities and supporting South Africa’s next generation of hospitality professionals. Central to its core, the Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa is dedicated to exceeding guest expectations whilst making a meaningful impact on the industry and community.
The Saxon invites guests to experience the hotel reimagined first-hand. 'With 24 years of storied history, the Saxon Hotel celebrates its legacy while embracing the future of hospitality. With the support of the Steyn Family, and the guidance of interior designer and founder of Ommni design, Nelson Kubheka, this transformation reflects the Saxon’s steadfast commitment to excellence. Nelson's vision seamlessly integrates our rich heritage with contemporary luxury, ensuring each new space tells a story of sophistication and innovation.
Nelson Mandela's Residence
No conversation about the Saxon can occur without first mentioning that the property housed Nelson Mandela following his release from prison and it is here that the late South African president-a global figure of hope and perseverance-began to edit his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom.
Guests included South Africa’s first democratically elected president, Nelson Mandela, who resided at the Saxon for six months while his own residence was still under construction. The serene surroundings provided the perfect setting for editing his autobiography, ‘A Long Walk to Freedom’.
When Nelson Mandela was released from prison, he found a refuge in the Saxon, owned by his friend, Douw Steyn.
On February 11 1990 his good friend Nelson Mandela, whose life sentence had included 18 years on Robben Island, was released from Victor Verster Prison in Cape Town, and he came to stay.
At that time, the establishment was the residential retreat of the Steyn family, who had invited Mandela to stay with them.
Today, Mandela's presence continues to be felt throughout the Saxon. He knows he has a unique story.
Guests are welcome to stay in the Nelson Mandela Platinum Suite and enjoy spacious, art-filled accommodations complete with the Zebra-covered office chair that Mandela favored.
The master bedroom has a king-size bed, a marble bathroom, and a walk-in shower and steam room. There is a fully equipped butler’s kitchen and 24-hour dedicated butler service, as well as a guest suite, separate lounge, dining room and conference room. The suite is enhanced with spectacular views of the property’s 10-acre gardens.
Staying in such a historically significant suite is a real treat.
Even guest rooms aim to remind visitors that they’re in South Africa, whether it’s through textured design or delectable inclusions like New Harbour Distillery liquors in the minibar.
Of the 53 thoughtfully decorated and well-appointed suites and villas on site-which vary in size, configuration and design (from contemporary African to more traditional)-one stands far apart: the Nelson Mandela Platinum Suite.
At the reception, with its distinctive chandelier and twin staircases, the well-known Dean Simon artwork "Foresight and Hindsight: The Five Faces of Mandela" takes center stage.
The artworks trace the progression of Mandela's life from his early youth through to the compassionate older statesman.
Renovations and Redesigns
Though the 10-acre property is infused with history, a thoughtful renovation and refresh commenced in 2020 (following the addition of new villas in 2010). The refurbishment brought new vibrance to the Saxon’s art-filled reception area.
In May 2000, Steyn was persuaded to turn the family home into The Saxon hotel (the Mandela Suite is named in his honor).
Guests entering the renewed Saxon are now greeted by an all-new lobby lounge that epitomizes comfort and personalized service.
The lobby lounge reflects a harmonious blend of contemporary aesthetics and timeless elegance and showcases a curated selection of local artwork, celebrating the vibrant creativity of South African artists.
The reception area has been relocated to a more intimate enclave, creating a sense of exclusivity from the moment of arrival.
The Saxon has also relaunched its food and beverage experiences following meticulous planning and creative innovation.
Nelson Kubheka, founder of Ommni Design is the visionary behind these re-imagined spaces.
His vision for the Saxon combines a fresh, modern African design ethos with a deep respect for the hotel's rich history. Through the integration of authentic and sustainable elements alongside contemporary touches, these redesigned spaces exude both longevity and luxury.
"Inclusive design has been a cornerstone of this project," explains Nelson Kubheka.
"It underscores the significance of local craftsmanship and collaboration. By partnering closely with local contractors, furniture makers, tilers, and painters, we have woven together a cohesive narrative that exemplifies how diverse skills and disciplines can converge to breathe life into an idea.
The grand reopening of the renowned Terrace, now reimagined to offer a serene and stylish al fresco dining experience. Perfect for soaking in South Africa’s stunning weather and breathtaking sunsets, the Terrace is an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Guests will be enchanted by the views overlooking the pristine pool and lush gardens, creating a private sanctuary of tranquillity and elegance.
Culinary Experiences
Further, the classic-meets-contemporary Qunu restaurant and the Olive Bar both received attention. To understand the sense of sanctuary the Saxon provides requires looking toward its spa, as well as its food and beverage program.
Saxon Hotel, Villas, and SpaThe Saxon invites guests to step into a world of refined indulgence at the newly unveiled Olive Bar, nestled just off the main Terrace.
The Olive Bar offers more than just drinks-it’s an experience.
The footprint of the bar space has doubled in size and includes a wrap around bar alongside intimate lounge nooks which beckon guests to unwind and enjoy a light meal or a pre-dinner drink in a setting that exudes sophistication and charm.
The ambiance is enhanced by carefully curated details, including a striking bar display that adds a touch of elegance with highlights of light marble, complemented by bespoke light fittings that create a warm and inviting glow.
Plush fabrics selected for the seats ensure comfort while maintaining an air of luxury. Meticulously crafted to offer guests a sophisticated and inviting retreat.
The thoughtful redesign features various seating styles to accommodate different preferences, ensuring comfort and relaxation for all guests.
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