Ideally located just around the corner from the Sandton Gautrain Station and Sandton City Shopping Mall, Hotel Sky is an easy choice for anyone coming to stay in Sandton. Its elaborate décor and unusual colour combinations put it at the top of the list for those looking for a unique hotel stay. In addition, the in-house Eclipse Restaurant – which is also open to the public – makes for an entertaining stay, complete with delicious meals, live music and the Joburg skyline. And, you can now also spoil yourself with a spa treatment, since they’ve recently transformed one of the hotel wings into a tranquil spa setting.
It might be a little daunting for first-time visitors, but regulars seem to appreciate the opportunity to check themselves in. While people often form an important part of the arrival and stay for us, the self check-in process was an interesting experience. In fact, the reception area is geared towards this, with various self check-in stands. Check-out is done just as easily, with a message that pops up on your phone on the day of departure, and your outstanding balance merely being debited from your account.
From the reception, through to the corridors, public areas and your room, Hotel Sky’s colourful décor is probably one of the highlights of the stay. From golden cladded walls, island-vibe wallpaper and loads of shiny chandeliers, to marble tiles and leopard print upholstery, it’s clearly all about being bold.
Speaking about being bold, the hotel is also the perfect spot for anyone wanting to make an impressive entrance. In addition to the striking amount of chandeliers, you might want to make your way to the fifth floor where you can look down onto a twirling staircase fit for a royal entrance.
The rooms aren’t meant for a week-long stay and if you’re someone who needs space, you might have to ask for the biggest room available. The island-style wallpaper with its parrots and palm tree leaves have been pulled through to the rooms too, accentuated with modern ceiling lights and black carpets. With only one window in the room, it seems that the skyline views were saved for the restaurants and public spaces. The executive rooms come with not one, but two in-room smart televisions, though – a worthy attempt to make up for it.
General Manager, Ignatious Mambinge claims that Hotel Sky has the biggest hotel pool in Sandton. Of course, this comes with a lovely poolside bar area, ample pool loungers and a deck where hotel guests can spend the day relaxing, sipping on cocktails and basking in the Joburg sun.
Another grand entrance is the one into Eclipse Restaurant, with a red carpet and the works! The restaurant comes with large windows and high ceilings, offering a lovely setting for dinner with a view. Indulge in fine cuisine while listening to live music and take a moment to walk out onto the balcony and take in Joburg’s impressive skyline. Chef Ken Phuduhudu’s creations are tasteful, and the portions are generous. While the wine list is not very extensive, they do have some quality wines available. Eclipse – with its majestic chandeliers and colourful décor – is clearly a favourite for large groups looking for a combination of dining and entertainment – the ideal spot for celebration.
The recent addition of Aspire Day Spa to Hotel Sky’s offering has undoubtedly elevated the guest experience. Upon arrival, you’ll be given a cup of tea meant to calm the senses, whereafter you’ll be taken through to one of the many beautiful, spacious treatment rooms. In addition, there is also a lovely manicure and pedicure station. According to Mambinge, guests can also expect a sauna and steam room in the near future.
Hotel Sky is undoubtedly a unique Sandton experience. Even if you don’t stay over, a visit to Eclipse Restaurant, the day spa or one of the fun events they often host, is worth looking into. They recently even hosted their first Samba event, which was apparently quite the affair!
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