Morukuru Family has relaunched the AtholPlace Hotel & Villa in Sandton, returning the property to its original boutique hotel and exclusive-use villa accommodation concept, while enhancing sophistication.
The previous exclusive-use guesthouse – established in 2020 – has been transformed into a boutique hotel, following a six-week refurbishment that has infused new levels of luxury into every spacious room.
Tourism Update attended the media launch of the property on August 14.
“While AtholPlace Villa remains an option for exclusive use, the hotel now offers nine bedrooms for individual bookings. We hope to attract a broader market going forward – from international visitors en route to a safari or needing a stopover to corporate guests and those seeking a luxurious urban retreat,” said Morukuru Family Co-owner Ed Zeeman.
AtholPlace Hotel offers four inter-leading deluxe rooms in the annexe building – each with views of the garden and pool, accommodating up to two adults. There’s also a king room and four superior suites on the main building’s first floor, accommodating up to two adults and one child under 16.
The refurbishment included new floors, carpets, furniture, wallpaper and décor along with tech innovations such as device-casting systems for the TVs.
Other changes include an “all-day” dining menu, available between 11h00 and 21h00, refurbished reception area, lobby, bar and dining room. Facilities include a bar and library, lounge area, small fitness room and peaceful garden with a temperature-controlled pool.
The exclusive-use villa has remained true to its original design, offering luxury accommodation in four bedrooms, with elegant living and dining areas, private garden, pool and outdoor fire pit.
Limited secure off-street parking is available for guests. The property is close to world-class shopping, dining and the Gautrain Station.
“We’ve gone to great lengths to ensure our guests have access to everything they could want or need during their stay. Our dedicated team, led by General Manager Ryno van der Elst, looks forward to welcoming them with the five-star hospitality they expect and deserve,” Zeeman said.
Morukuru Family is a member of Relais & Châteaux with a collection comprising six five-star properties in South Africa. Three properties – Morukuru Owner’s House, Morukuru River House and Morukuru Farm House – are located within Madikwe Game Reserve in North West and all available for exclusive-use bookings.
The group also has two properties in the Western Cape’s De Hoop Nature Reserve: Morukuru Beach Lodge (available for booking per suite or for exclusive use) and Morukuru Ocean House (exclusive use only).