If boutique luxury and old-school charm had a love child, it would be The Residence Hotel.
After the gruelling 14-hour flight from Sydney to Johannesburg, seeing Nosipho from The Residence hotel holding a sign with my name and a warm smile was a very welcome sight.
I couldn’t keep my eyes open on the half hour journey to the hotel and when we arrived, I thought I was dreaming because this place is seriously dreamy!
Safely Tucked away in Johannesburg’s leafy Houghton Estate, The Residence Boutique Hotel is a five-star sanctuary blending old-world charm and modern indulgence with touches of decadent quirky glamour everywhere you look.
From the moment you arrive, you’re enveloped in elegance—think Persian rugs, crystal chandeliers, and velvet drapes along with cracking log fires and the piece de resistance a grand piano with a resident pianist creating a luxurious and inviting welcome.
My suite is what dreams are made of. It’s almost the same size as my Sydney unit! I was praying for a bathtub as so often these days it’s just a shower. My prayers were answered with not one but two bathtubs. One inside and one outside! There is also an indoor and outdoor shower. Epic!
I have my own lounge area with the signature quirky artwork, leather lounge and my very own fireplace stacked with authentic logs. There’s free soft drinks and a Nespresso coffee machine along with a kettle and yes… English breakfast tea bags. I’m gagging for a tea and so delighted to find a jug of real milk in the fridge. This and a hot water bottle in my massive king size bed are the small homely touches that make such a difference.
There’s also a decanter of sherry but it’s 3.30am Sydney time so I fight the urge as my need for sleep trumps any sherry cravings.
The hotel’s amenities are equally impressive. Guests can unwind in one of three outdoor pools, indulge in treatments at the full-service spa, or enjoy a game on the tennis court. The on-site restaurant offers gourmet dining, complemented by a well-stocked bar and the aforementioned cozy piano lounge for evening relaxation
THE RESTAURANT
Whether you’re enjoying breakfast in the sunlit conservatory or a romantic dinner on the terrace overlooking manicured gardens, The Dining Room provides a memorable culinary journey. The service is impeccable as is the standard and quality of the food. My truffle scrambled eggs with field mushrooms and herbs were almost as good as my evening ribeye served with the most delicious crunchy potato wedges. I ordered a shiraz to accompany the food (the dinner of course!) and was pleasantly surprised when the glass was actually a carafe – I don’t mind if I do…. especially when its the same price as 1 glass of house shiraz in Sydney!
THE SPA
The Residence Spa is the ultimate escape pod. Think candlelight, soft music, and scents so calming you’ll float in before your treatment even starts. With steam rooms, spas, and couples’ treatments that feel like mini honeymoons, it’s luxe with a capital L. I had the QMS deluxe hydrating facial and and discovered it was the very best treat for my dehydrated jet lagged skin.
My feet also got the Residence treatment with a classic pedicure with a very extended massage that had me swooning Afterwards? Rooibos tea overlooking the garden and absolutely zero desire to leave. If your soul needs a reset or your shoulders scream “laptop life,” this is where magic happens.
Service at The Residence is personalized and attentive, with staff going above and beyond to cater to your needs. Whether arranging city tours, providing luxury transfers, or simply offering a warm smile, the team ensures a memorable stay.
Conveniently located just 30 minutes from OR Tambo International Airport, The Residence offers easy access to Johannesburg’s top attractions, including nearby golf courses and shopping districts. It’s an ideal choice for travellers seeking a tranquil retreat without sacrificing proximity to the city’s vibrant offerings.
In a city known for its dynamic energy, The Residence Boutique Hotel stands out as a serene escape, offering a blend of luxury, comfort, and exceptional service that’s hard to match.
The verdict? The Residence isn’t just a stay—it’s a spoil. The kind of place that wraps you in luxury, hands you a glass of bubbles, and makes you wonder why you ever stayed anywhere else.
About The Residence Portfolio
The Residence Portfolio is an exquisite collection of handpicked boutique properties across Southern Africa. Each location, including The Residence Hotel in Johannesburg and Mukwa River Lodge on the Zambezi River in Zambia, offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and personalised service. With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to creating a “home away from home” experience, The Residence Portfolio ensures that every stay is memorable and inviting.
