On arrival at Fairlawns in Morningside, Sandton, I was greeted by immaculately attired Footmen who immediately made me feel welcome. This 5-star service was evident everywhere in the establishment. Fairlawns is located in a quiet corner of the up market residential suburb of Morningside. In 2010 Fairlawns won the World Luxury Award for the Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in South Africa and it is clear that they have maintained the level of service and luxury that earned them the title.
The estate was originally part of the Openheimer trust and consisted of 10 acres of equestrian land and rolling green lawns. Most of the property has since been sold; however, what remains has retained its stately, gracious ambience with beautiful old trees and prolific bird-life.
The spa is a Balinese style haven set away from the hotel. The lush Balinese Spa Gardens were built entirely from imported Balinese materials, including the stones and roof tiles, where guests can relax under Bamboo gazebos set amongst koi ponds and zen inspired statues. The gardens are a perfect place to relax after treatments to experience peace and tranquility listening to the sound of flowing water and song birds twittering in the surrounding bamboo groves.
The private spa villa is set in the garden and is perfect for couple or group bookings. It includes a private steam room, hydro-therapy bath and luxurious Balinese lounging bed to relax after treatments.
My 90 minute signature Balinese massage was a combination of Asian-inspired healing therapies which included hot-stones being used on deeper muscles to relieve muscle aches, hands-on massage for the smaller muscle areas and bamboo sticks rolled over the entire body to increase lymph drainage – a truly holistic massage treatment. After the treatment I was served warm herbal tea and left to relax in large comfortable reclers. The spa at Fairlawns is a tranquil haven with a perfect balance of tranquility and exclusivity.
The elegant Terrace restaurant serves superb cuisine and everything is prepared fresh on a daily basis from locally sourced produce. In summer the terrace is the perfect place to dine, overlooking the splendid gardens and pool area. I chose a starter of Warm Pear Salad and main of Kingklip. Both were superb and perfect after my afternoon at the spa.
By Sarene Kloren, Les Nouvelles Esthetiques SA
