The Peech is located in a 1950s family home. It was bought by James Peech in 2002 and developed into a boutique hotel, opening in 2004. Over the last 18 years, it has not only built up a name as one of the best boutique hotels in Joburg but has also cemented this reputation with a string of awards: 2021 Country Winner Luxury Small Hotel and 2022 Regional Winner Luxury Design Hotel at the World Luxury Hotel Awards, and listed in the Top Ten “best” at the Luxe 100 Best in South Africa awards. Its restaurant, Basalt, scooped the Service Excellence Award and chef Candice Philip the Culinary Innovation Award at the 2022 Luxe Hosco Restaurant Awards as well as two plates at the 2023 Gourmet Guide Awards.
It’s tempting to want to kick off your heels on entering. It could have something to do with the “garden urbanity” concept, which integrates the rooms into the landscaping, and with the abundant birdlife and indigenous plants, you literally are surrounded by nature. Or perhaps it’s the laid-back but professional and eagle-eyed staff who discreetly appear before your query is out of your mouth. Or it’s the inviting decor that is both luxurious and comforting, spacious yet snug, edgy yet homely. It’s likely also the attraction of Basalt, which is so rich and warmly appointed that it’s quite easy to settle in for a few hours and lose track of time.
And then there’s the villa… Over the years, The Peech has grown enormously – but without losing its intimate and personal touch. It now offers 14 classic rooms (expect an exciting refurb by early December), 14 luxury rooms, two suites and the ultimate splurge – a two-bedroom 75m2 villa. The villa rooms and living area all face onto the outdoor space with its shaded pergola and water feature. Whether you’re a leisure traveller, a family, a group of friends or a couple, The Peech really is a delicious escape from the world.
This article first appeared in the 2022 annual special edition of YourLuxury Africa.
