By Mabuyane Mabuza

When it comes to birthday celebrations, winter babies get the raw deal of all children. With most people preferring to stay indoors owing to the cold weather, being a winter “baby” often means one’s birthday slips by unnoticed. I have come to accept this, and I normally just let my birthday pass by without any noise. It is usually celebrated with a few members of the family, a low-key affair.

This year was the same, but there was a little twist to it. The small celebration over lunch was to be held at the Mandela Sanctuary boutique hotel in Houghton, the closest you can get to the icon through memories at his former home. I’d been meaning to visit for ages, either for lunch or dinner with the girls, so when the opportunity came up, I was genuinely excited especially because of the great reviews it has received.

Nelson Mandela’s Aura is felt
On a beautiful Sunday afternoon, my family and I made our way to Houghton to celebrate my birthday. Oh boy, was I blown away! The presence of the late
statesman is almost tangible from the moment you step out of the car in the parking lot. Though the property has been transformed into a boutique hotel, the architects have thoughtfully preserved key elements of the original Mandela home, including his bedroom, office and even the windows. The story of Nelson Mandela’s life gently unfolds throughout the space, with personal and family photographs lovingly displayed in every corner.

Location is key
Nestled in Houghton, just north of Johannesburg’s CBD, Sanctuary Mandela isn’t just a hotel — it stands as a living tribute to one of the world’s greatest leaders. This elegant space was thoughtfully created to honour the extraordinary life of Nelson Mandela, transforming his former residence into a luxurious retreat that weaves together comfort, history and South Africa’s rich heritage. The hotel’s roots trace back to Mandela’s days living in this very property.

Once his personal residence, it witnessed countless pivotal moments in his life—conversations that changed nations, quiet reflections in the garden, and the peaceful aura of a man who dedicated his life to freedom for the black majority and a champion of reconciliation. Every corner radiates the calm, dignified presence of a man who championed freedom and reconciliation.

The Mandela home

Today, the building retains its original charm, with subtle touches of Mandela’s
favourite colours and artefacts, turning each visit and stay into a heartfelt journey into history. The ambiance is warm and inviting, and radiates tranquillity and reverence within the hotel. Personal and family photographs and memorabilia of Nelson Mandela are displayed throughout, creating an intimate connection to his life’s journey.

You get to experience sacred moments from him shaking hands with world leaders, spending time at home after his release from prison to his travels with his young grandchildren. This is a space where visual stories are shared over every meal.

Surprises galore
On the Sunday of our visit, former president Thabo Mbeki and his wife, Mme Zanele, were also in attendance. I even got birthday wishes from Ntate Mbeki, arranged by my resourceful son, who whispered to him that I was celebrating my special day.

It was a beautiful spice from the one who owes his being to the mountains, the rivers, the glades and the everlasting seasons that define our beautiful land. He who is the grandchild of the warrior men and women that Hintsa and Sekhukhune led, the patriots that Cetshwayo and Mphephu took to battle, the soldiers Moshoeshoe and Ngungunyane taught never to dishonour the cause of freedom. He made my day extra special.

The mouthwatering menu
Dining at the Mandela Sanctuary is an experience in itself. Insights, the on-site
restaurant, offers a menu that was carefully curated to include his favourite meals that were cooked by his personal chef of 22 years, Chef Xoliswa Ndoyiya.

Expect traditional South African flavours reimagined with a sophisticated touch. Guests can indulge in a variety of dishes, some of which were Madiba’s personal favourites. From seafood inspired dishes and vegan to traditional Xhosa inspired meals, there is something for everyone.

Being a Sunday, they also offer a live jazz performance once a month. We got there
at noon for lunch and some live music. We were welcomed by friendly staff who
ushered us to our table. The atmosphere was vibrant with a mix of large and smaller
tables like ours.

Insights

This is not your local restaurant; walk-ins are not allowed. Bookings are done
online; we did ours four weeks prior. A standard lunch booking costs R2400 for three people and includes live jazz music. It excludes drinks which can be settled after the meal.

To book, visit www.sanctuarymandela.com