Johannesburg may be known as a bustling metropolis, but nestled in its heart is a hotel that feels worlds away from the city’s pace. Four Seasons The Westcliff is a luxurious property that offers tranquillity and elegance, perched high on a hillside, providing panoramic views over the city’s tree-lined canopy. With its rich history, unique design, and exceptional service, The Westcliff offers an unforgettable stay that combines the best of city living with the charm of a secluded village.
A Charming Village Escape in Johannesburg
Originally built as an apartment block, Four Seasons The Westcliff has evolved into a unique venue that feels more like a small European village than a typical hotel. You think Joburg, you think high-rise skyscraper, but the property’s layout is designed to blend with its natural surroundings, which creates an intimate atmosphere.
Its cluster of buildings sprawls across the hillside in a terraced style, and guests are transported up and down the slope by golf carts, making the experience feel charmingly remote and relaxing. Once inside, it’s easy to forget that you’re in the middle of Johannesburg.
The only real point of curiosity is the lift column that transports guests from the ground floor to the restaurant. Its stark glass and metal design stands in sharp contrast to the rest of the hotel’s aesthetic, making it quite the conversation starter. On the plus side, the glass allows for views of the surrounding greenery, which a traditional brick structure wouldn’t offer. Despite its contrasting appearance, the lift is essential for navigating the hotel’s terraced layout, especially for those who may find the terrain challenging.
…the property’s layout is designed to blend with its natural surroundings, which creates an intimate atmosphere.
During a recent stay, the trees in front of the hotel were lush and green, a refreshing contrast to the rest of the city’s otherwise quite dry and brown landscape. This view will be even more special when Johannesburg’s famed jacaranda trees begin to bloom shortly, which will turn the vibrant green into a stunning sea of purple. The hotel’s unique hilltop location will give guests a bird’s eye view of this.
Dining with a View: Flames Restaurant at Four Seasons The Westcliff
At the front of the hotel is Flames, The Westcliff’s renowned restaurant, under the guidance of executive chef, Wesli Jacobs. With its tiered layout, which seems almost suspended over an infinity waterfall and sweeping views over the city, it’s the perfect place to enjoy sundowners or a leisurely meal.
The restaurant draws Joburg’s elite – we observed business meetings unfolding over gourmet meals, spotted celebrities discreetly dining, and couples capturing picture-perfect moments of their romantic lunch for Instagram.
As the name suggests, the restaurant’s emphasis is on cooking over an open flame, offering a range of flavourful dishes, including wagyu and Chalmar steaks, seafood and more. Honestly, you’d be hard-pressed not to find something to enjoy on this menu. We loved the perfectly cooked Norwegian salmon, with fluffy couscous, bok choy, raisin gel, fennel and the silkiest Cape Malay velouté. The tender and juicy Chalmar 28-day wet-aged rib-eye steak, which was cooked to perfection, was also a standout. I would love to go back for the fried eggplant appetiser with romesco and punchy salsa verde – utterly delicious!
The menu at Flames includes a variety of elevated dishes and its location and view make it ideal for celebrating a special occasion. If you’re feeling flush and want to splash out, you can try the 1kg 24CT gold-plated Wagyu rib rack at R5950 – that’ll make for an interesting Instagram story!
Honestly, you’d be hard-pressed not to find something to enjoy on this menu.
There’s no better place to enjoy a relaxing meal while taking in the views over the city lights twinkling in the distance.
Elegant Rooms with a Personal Touch
The Westcliff’s rooms are spacious, luxurious, and thoughtfully designed. Our room was elegantly appointed, featuring deep navy wallpaper, crisp white linens, and a private balcony with a view. The attention to detail in the room’s décor adds to the overall sense of refined luxury, creating a relaxing space. Our room featured a desk, which makes working comfortable, there is also a business centre at the reception area which can be used if need be.
Relax and Rejuvenate at Four Seasons The Westcliff Spa
For guests seeking an extra level of relaxation, The Westcliff’s spa is a gem. With a private pool and serene treatment rooms, it’s the ideal place to unwind after a busy day of exploring the city.
Guests can indulge in a range of treatments, from massages to facials, all while enjoying the spa’s tranquil surroundings. You can also enjoy a light snack or drink by the pool, in an exclusive-use area, only available to those making use of the spa.
Separate from the spa is a second pool area, ideal for families and those wanting to soak up some Jozi sunshine. Complete with loungers, umbrellas and pool service, this is a popular spot come hot summer days.
Sumptuous Breakfasts at the Grand Dame of Johannesburg
One of the highlights of a stay at Four Seasons The Westcliff has to be breakfast. This lavish spread offers everything you could imagine, from freshly made waffles and pancakes to sushi, eggs cooked to order, and an impressive array of pastries. It’s the perfect way to start the day, whether you’re planning to relax by the pool or fueling up to head out to explore Johannesburg.
Four Seasons The Westcliff reminded me a bit of Cape Town’s Mount Nelson Hotel, with its grand dame status (it was, at one stage, even painted a similar pink). The hotel exudes a sense of heritage and elegance that is reminiscent of the iconic Nellie. And just like its Cape Town counterpart, Four Seasons The Westcliff continues to evolve, with exciting additions like a new 400-seater ballroom and reception area set to open in 2025, further cementing its place as one of Johannesburg’s premier luxury hotels.
Joburgers will also be glad to know that the hotel will restart its afternoon tea service next year as well, which is welcome news to those looking for a treat or to celebrate a special occasion. A property like this is just made for it.
Exceptional Service and Attention to Detail
The Westcliff’s staff are exceptional; they bring a polished, attentive, and consistently warm service, separating this style of hotel from its contemporaries. From the moment we arrived, we were made to feel at home, with staff always checking in to ensure that we had everything we needed. Whether arranging transportation up and down the hillside or offering suggestions for exploring the city, the team went above and beyond.
A Timeless Retreat
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, a business trip, or a special celebration, Four Seasons The Westcliff offers the perfect blend of luxury, privacy, and a sense of escape. It’s a garden oasis in the heart of Johannesburg, offering guests the chance to unwind while still enjoying the vibrant energy of the city
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