LOCATION
Fairlawns is about 5km from central Sandton. It's hard to believe it was once a single home because it can now house hundreds of guests - and not even at a squash.
Palatial apartments include a French Provençal-style courtyard, several villas with private pools, and presidential suites that are actually home-sized with lounge, office, spa-treatment room and double-volume staircases leading to two rooms.STYLE
There are immaculate lawns, curtained sun lounges, elaborate stairways with stone cherubs, brass bath fittings and chandeliers. New additions include the modern botanical-themed Perrier-Jouët Champagne bar and outdoor terrace.
SERVICE
When you envy the staff their finely tailored uniforms, you know there will be attention to detail.
THE FOOD
Macarons to start dinner, before sweet scallops and spicy prawn, brilliant smoky roasts at the carvery, interesting salads and formidable breakfasts. A cinnamon cake with cheesecake icing was memorable.ACTIVITIES
The spa - quiet, candle-lit with an outdoor Balinese oasis - features a manicure area for groups and is worth visiting on its own. Have lunch in the tree-themed, private area called Into the Woods, which overlooks the pool. Dinner is elegant, with a resident pianist and stiff-linen, fine-dining vibes.
BEST TIME TO GO
All year, but summer will be glorious.
FACILITIES
Gym, spa, or go the whole hog and book the presidential suite with its own spa room and office...