The Peech Hotel

Breakfast was excellent, with a good buffet and hot dishes to choose from. The only thing I'd reconsider is dropping the buffet when the hotel isn't full. Guests have a better experience when they can mix and match at their own pace instead of ordering and waiting to be served. That happened on just one day, so it was a minor issue. The staff were consistently friendly and helpful, from security through to reception, which reflects well on the team and its leadership. The rooms were spacious and cool, with comfortable beds, though the joined singles were annoying. Housekeeping and turndown were efficient and unobtrusive. The stay actually exceeded my expectations.

The Peech is a beautiful property and the staff were excellent. The room was the reason I gave four stars: it didn't seem especially well thought out. Bathroom lighting was so poor I couldn't shave, and the light and fan switches were outside the bathroom.

We were on a busy travel schedule, so we made good use of the excellent restaurant for dinner. Breakfast was tasty, and having it beside the gardens was a lovely way to start the day. My husband and I stayed in a suite designed for comfort and a good night's sleep, set among hedges, lawns and trees. There's also a charming pool area. The Peech Hotel is a welcoming oasis in the upscale Birdhaven area of Johannesburg. The staff were top notch and friendly. Its owner and developer, James Peech, is civically minded and environmentally concerned. I've stayed at several Johannesburg hotels, and this is easily my favorite.

There's a park opposite, handy for walkers and runners. I'd come back in a heartbeat. The staff were lovely at both breakfast and dinner, and the food was great. Breakfast had a cold buffet plus cooked options from a menu, and dinner was just as good. The dishes weren't overly spicy, though I imagine they could make them hotter if your palate allows. Our room was on the first floor, up reasonably steep steps. The rooms are modern, with tea and coffee facilities and some minibar snacks; minibar items cost extra. There was a large double bed and a digital TV with Prime TV on subscription. I didn't use the other channels. The bathroom has privacy glass walls, a modern shower, basin and WC, but no bath. The staff are cheerful and smiley, which puts you in a good mood too.