Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff

Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff is built across a steep hillside on Jan Smuts Avenue in Westcliff, a leafy suburb between Parktown and Parkview, a short drive north of the city centre. Its buildings climb the slope in terraces, and the setting gives the hotel its main selling point: wide views across what is often described as one of the world's largest urban forests, the tree canopy of Johannesburg's northern suburbs.

Rooms and suites are spread through the hillside buildings, and categories include Panoramic View rooms and suites with views over the city, as well as Two-Bedroom Family Rooms close to the family pool. The day spa has nature-inspired treatments, an open-air massage option and a eucalyptus-scented steam room.

Flames, the hotel's main restaurant, serves seasonally inspired dishes and has a terrace that looks out over the treetops, which makes it a good place for sundowners and dinner even if you are not staying. Ask for a table on the terrace in fine weather, and book ahead at weekends.

The Westcliff suits couples, families and business travellers who want a resort-like feel close to the centre, and it is a good base for visiting Johannesburg Zoo and Zoo Lake, which are just a few minutes away by car. Families appreciate the family rooms and pool. Because of the hillside layout, expect slopes and steps around the property; ask the hotel about the most accessible rooms if mobility is a concern.

The hotel is also a good place to come for a drink or dinner even if you stay elsewhere, as Flames looks out over the treetops of the northern suburbs. Book a table for sunset, when the light over the treetops is at its best.

Rosebank and its Gautrain station are about ten minutes away by car, and Sandton about 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Melville, Parkhurst and Greenside, with their independent restaurants and bars, are close too, and the inner-city museums and Constitution Hill are within easy reach. Most guests use the hotel's transfers, taxis or ride-hailing apps rather than walking, as the surrounding roads are busy and hilly. Rates are at the top end of the city's market, so look out for seasonal offers on the hotel's own site.