This year I’ve focused a lot on travel, and I don’t only mean international travel. As much as I love exploring the overseas countries, we have some amazing gems right here in South Africa as well! I am exploring our beautiful country bit by bit, and of the most recent finds for me was the beautiful Tintswalo at Waterfall hotel. I got to spend a night there last month after first visiting it for dinner back in May. If you are looking for a weekend getaway that’s not too far from the city, then look no further than Tintswalo. Even though it’s located at the heart of Johannesburg’s northern suburbs (and just a five minute drive from the Mall of Africa), while you are there it feels like you are isolated from the busy city life and nested in your own world.

Tintswalo at Waterfall lies within the elite Waterfall Equestrian Estate and this 5-star luxury boutique hotel and business facility enjoys all the conveniences of urban living, as well as the open spaces and natural beauty of the estate grounds. Located on an equestrian estate, the hotel was designed to be a lavish, double-volume barn, decorated with equestrian paraphernalia.

The equestrian theme follows through everywhere- from the names of the suites (each named after a different horse breed) down to the beautiful horse-themed artworks all around the hotel. And of course- the actual suites themselves, just take a look!

We stayed at the King Suite for 2, which was a beautiful large room overlooking the estate. I loved the equestrian sized double doors that lead to the bathroom, as it really does add to the feel of the place.Our room overlooked a lush polo field, as well as a sizable dam, which attracts local bird life all year round.

We checked in during the late afternoon, as the sun was just about to set and the view from our room was phenomenal.

There is also a lovely viewing deck just outside, where you can see a panoramic view of the whole estate as well as Joburgs’ skyline. Magnificent!

In the evening we enjoyed a 3-course meal, and that’s always what makes or breaks a hotel for me. If the food is not good, I will never stay at a place again; no matter how great it is (I am a food snob indeed).

The restaurant at Tintswalo exceeded all my expectations as Steve and I enjoyed our meal. I went for the Homemade Butternut Soup, Lamb chops and the Crème Brule for dessert.

I can’t fault the service or the food one bit- it was honestly delicious!

The breakfast was another highlight of the stay for me. They serve a buffet-style breakfast on some days (when there are more than 20 occupants) but when it’s a little quieter, you basically get to enjoy a buffet breakfast all to yourself!

What I mean by that is that you get the Full English Breakfast which included a plate of muffins and croissants, cold meats, fruit with yoghurt and granola, as well as a choice of a main meal!

I picked the hearty meal of scrambled eggs, baked beans, sausages and potatoes- needless to say that they had to roll me out of the restaurant as I was so full!

A night at Tintswalo starts from R3975  and while it is rather on the pricey side, for me it was completely justified. From the friendly staff that ensured that our stay went smoothly (they even welcomed us with a hand written note in our room), to the great location and the view, down to the amazing food, Tintswalo at Waterfall sure knows how to please their guests.

I would recommend it to anyone visiting South Africa who is looking for a central place to stay that still has a taste of South Africa, and to anyone local looking for a special occasion stay. Tintswalo at Waterfall is the perfect choice!