An icon in Africa
SAXON
Set
in the exclusive Sandhurst suburb of Sandton, Saxon is the welcoming 'home' that combines
a refined and sophisticated elegance with the warm charm and vitality of
Africa.
When
Nelson Mandela was released from prison, Saxon became his home. It was
here in serenity and privacy that the former President of South Africa
edited his celebrated autobiography "A long Walk to Freedom".
Designed
to capture the environment, the Saxon is set in six acres of natural
free flowing indigenous gardens, where jade coloured waters forming pools of
tranquility, reflect the changing seasons. The architecture embodies
both discretion and integrity embracing an impressive 26 spacious suites.
Towering deep grey textured walls offer a sense of strength
and permanence, while inner
courtyards create quiet spaces as sunlight filters through sheer walls of
glass. Greenery and leafy trees in courtyards stretch skywards towards the dappled light.
Spectacular
sculpture, dramatic wood carvings, intricate hand embroidered wall
hangings and welcoming flowers are part of the fabric of Saxon. Exotic
arrangements, profuse and brilliantly coloured, introducing Africa's rich floral tapestry. Strelitzias, clivias,
cymbidium
orchids in pale yellow and masses of lilies from cream to deep orange.
The
inviting cocktail bar with its massive jars of plump glistening olives
leads to the spreading pool terrace, where you enjoy a glass of
chilled champagne. Stretch out and relax beside the pool (heated in
winter) and watch the glistening koi in the rippling pond. Have a revitalising massage in the shaded gazebo or at the health centre, which includes a fully
equipped and supervised gymnasium, steam room and body centre.
The
diningroom, dressed in shades of stone, bronze and biscuit, has a soft golden
glow, showered with natural light. This is the
preserve of top Executive Chef Paul Dodsworth who has created a new superb
à la Carte menu
for the Saxon table with an assured touch. A menu that mirrors the seasons
incorporating many of South Africa's superb natural
ingredients.
In dishes such
as Crayfish & Scallop Ceviche served with Green Asparagus, Sweet
Potato Chips and Coriander Chili Lime Dressing. Loin of Impala is served
with Parmesan Barley. The
strength of Paul Dodsworth's cuisine is his ability to combine classical
simplicity with a sharp edged modernism.
The
fine brigade at the Saxon includes talented pastry chef Nicholas van der
Walt who is presenting delectable desserts with innovative flair. Among
them the delicate Rose Flavoured Pavlova with Lemon Curd Cream and the
exquisite Iced Nectarine & Champagne Soup.
At
the Saxon you have quiet elegant rooms that are set aside for either
private dining or boardroom conferences while others are available for
small conferences for up to 30 Executives. The comfortable auditorium is
equipped with the latest technology together with trained technical
management on standby.
The suites
include two refined Platinum Suites honouring Nelson Mandela and
President Thabo Mbeki. All the suites have a unique quality - serenity.
Colours reflect tones of the African wild; stone,
ochre, honey, accents of sienna lending warmth with striking notes of
ebony and ivory. Light filters softly through latticed shutters
sheltering large bay windows. Each of the four Presidential Suites has a
separate spacious comfortable lounge and an intimate dining space where
you can enjoy Executive Chef Paul Dodsworth's special occasion
menus.
SAXON
36
Saxon Road, Sandhurst, Johannesburg
P.O. Box 567, Saxonwold, 2132, South Africa
Tel:
+27 (11) 292-6000 Fax: +27 (11) 292-6001
e-mail: reservations@saxon.co.za
www.thesaxon.com
Production SHOWCOOK.COM
Photography Franz
Lauinger
