Why we love Sandton

There’s a reason we decided to put down roots in this vibrant corner of Johannesburg! In fact, there are seven: here’s why we’ll never get tired of this bustling suburb.

Shop ‘til you drop

We’re sure that Sandton has seen plenty of shopping sprees! Sandton City was built in 1974 and it’s one of the most well-known retail hubs in Africa. More recently, the introduction of the Diamond Walk in 2015 – the glitziest, most exclusive shopping experience in Johannesburg – has kept it on the map. Here you’ll find all the big designer names, from Alexander McQueen and Dolce & Gabbana to Burberry and Jimmy Choo. Other shopping destinations include Benmore Gardens, and Hyde Park and the Mall of Africa further afield.
Much closer to home, though, is the Acsiopolis Node of which the @Sandton Hotel is part of – it’s been designed to offer all the lifestyle and retail conveniences guests could want, all on their doorstep.

Africa’s Richest Square Mile

Did you know that approximately 7% of Sandton’s population of 220 000 people are millionaires? Little wonder, because most of SA’s head offices are based here – from the Johannesburg Stock Exchange to banks, legal and audit firms as well as international relations, you’ll find them all conveniently here. If you’re not here for business though, you’ll find all the amenities that have drawn Africa’s wealthy, including country clubs and spas and luxury restaurants.

Looking back

Sandton feels like a brand-new suburb, but its history reaches far back – in fact gold was discovered in Sandton 30 years before the main reef that established Johannesburg as the City of Gold! For a fascinating look at some of the historical homes and monuments that are still to be found in Sandton, have a read here. https://www.theheritageportal.co.za/article/sandton-has-history Recent history is honoured in Nelson Mandela Square, where a statue of the late President Nelson Mandela towers over the restaurants that surround it.

Eat out

There’s a restaurant to suit every need in Sandton! @Sandton Hotel has a delicious selection of cuisine within our restaurants, as well as our deli for in-room dining. Coffee lovers are spoilt for choice at our Coffee Bar, and Naked Coffee in Sandton City also serves up a delicious brew. For incredible steaks, our Pool Bar’s Grill section has a Rib-Eye Steak on the bone that is to die for, and for options within the suburb head to Ribs & Burgers and The Grillhouse. Those looking for fine dining outside of the hotel’s Tasting Room can make their way to Saint and Zioux, as well as Signature Restaurant in the Morningside Centre. For a relaxed bite, our Residents Bar or Pool Bar certainly fit the bill, and other delightful options include Truffles on the Park and Olives and Plates.

That’s entertainment

Looking for a bit of culture? Visit the Theatre on the Square in the Nelson Mandela Square, which has re-opened after the lockdown. Every Friday they host a weekly lunch hour music concert, and in the evening you can attend one of the slated shows, which include musical revues and comedy shows. The Acsiopolis Piazza, which is just on the doorstep of @Sandton Hotel, will also play host to a number of entertaining attractions, with magicians and shows set to wow visitors in the coming months.

Family Friendly

With fantastic schools within the suburb, such as our neighbour Crawford College and Redhill, there are naturally plenty of places and activities in Sandton to keep children entertained. River Café is a lovely child-friendly restaurant based in the Sandton Field and Study Centre, with a large outdoor garden area, a jungle gym and plenty of space for the kids to run around in. You’ll find Hamleys, the finest toy shop in the world, within Sandton City as well as a LEGO store for budding builders. Our clubhouse is also the perfect spot for kids, with a play area that will keep them busy and happy for hours!

Easy Access to Everywhere

And lastly, if you do have to leave Sandton, at least you’re in one of the most central spots in Johannesburg. The highways are accessible and take you in every direction, but if you’d rather leave the car at home then the Gautrain station is right on your doorstep with trains heading to the airport, Pretoria or town. Buses and taxis are other options, all of which stop regularly to pick up passengers, and you’ll never have to wait long for an Uber or Bolt.