By Aurelia Mbokazi
A popular international travel influencer once said staying at the Four Seasons means you have officially reached the point where carrying your own luggage feels disrespectful. While he was not specifically referring to the one located in Westcliff, a short seven-minute drive from my humble abode, his theory turned out to be 100% true.
After spending a night at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg recently as aguest of Toyota, not once did I carry my luggage. In fact, my polite persistence in wanting to carry my own luggage was frowned upon.
This is the kind of hotel where luxury is in the details. From opening doors, remembering your subsequent drink orders, to making sure your luggage reaches your room before you do, and the reception just as you check out.
An arrival that feels like an escape
From the moment I entered the beautiful, spacious reception area that invites you to linger on, it became clear that this would be no ordinary hotel stay. It felt remarkably removed from the Johannesburg I know, despite being in the next neighbourhood from my home.
I even joked that if I weren’t carrying luggage, I could have walked from home and gotten some much-needed exercise. The hotel’s hillside setting creates a sense of retreat, as though you have travelled much further than you have.
After checking in, we were transported by golf cart through the property to afternoon tea, which happened to be on the same block as our rooms. Afternoon tea introduced us to an assortment of delicious treats and colourful teas, some so unusual that tasting them felt like part of the adventure. After all, this hotel is known as one of the best spots for high tea in Johannesburg, among other great things.
Dinner served with intuition
Cocktails were followed by a three-course dinner at the restaurant. Every course was fresh, beautifully presented and delicious, but it was the service that stayed with me.
The team seemed to know exactly when to appear. Glasses were refilled, cappuccinos arrived when needed and every request was handled warmly, without the service ever becoming intrusive.
As the evening progressed and the room became livelier, the background music rose with the mood. Soon, well-lubricated by good wine and even better company, the ladies were singing along. Somehow, the staff read the room perfectly and allowed the music to become part of the celebration.
A room designed for lingering
Then came the room. Spacious, beautifully considered and equipped with everything one could need, it immediately made me wish I had more time to spend in it.
The bed was wonderfully soft, the pillows feather-light and the bathroom offered all the comforts expected of a five-star hotel, including warm, fluffy towels, soft gowns and slippers. Even the shower, which looked slightly intricate at first, was easy to master.
The balcony was one of my favourite features. As the sun began to set, Johannesburg appeared almost magical. From this height, the city looked glorious, peaceful and beautifully lit. I felt like a tourist, discovering a different side of Joburg, a city I have lived in for almost my entire life.
At night, the blackout curtains shut out every trace of light. The room became completely still and quiet, making it difficult to believe I was anywhere near the bustle of Johannesburg.
Breakfast with a view
The next morning began with instant Wi-Fi connectivity and a little work before breakfast. The dining area at Flames restaurant once again offered panoramic views across Johannesburg, accompanied by an impressive breakfast selection.
There was something deeply satisfying about beginning the day with beautifully prepared food, attentive service and that remarkable view. Part of me felt ready for the day ahead. The other part wanted to remain there and continue basking in it all.
Luxury that feels personal
The true appeal of Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff lies in how its luxury makes you feel. The staff are attentive, polite and genuinely warm. They look at you when they speak, remember the smallest details and make their care feel completely natural.
By checkout, I had fully embraced the experience. I simply sent my room number via WhatsApp and waited for someone to collect my suitcase. Because, really, after a night at the Four Seasons, carrying your own luggage would have felt almost insulting.
For one beautiful evening, Johannesburg looked different. It felt quieter and softer, and glamorous at the same time. For me, that was the real luxury of The Westcliff, allowing one to escape without ever leaving the city.
