travel
LIVE like a local while TRAVELLING Let us introduce you to two diamonds on our doorstep We’re not sure what possesses Joburgers to travel offshore when we can take advantage of our own unique landscapes. It’s not just our country’s scenery that’s captivating, but its culture too. As you begin to meander through South Africa’s diverse paths, you’ll too realise why there’s no place like home. Sweetly put, local is always lekker! These are two top local picks for the month. MELVILLE’S MUSE - PABLO HOUSE
This mini breakaway is an absolute must-do for 20 plenty. Not only is this a truly rare hidden Jozi gem, it’s also beautifully designed with intricately architecture. Nestled in what seems like a treehouse, the seven suites are smartly intended to blend in casually with the evergreen environment. Cascading trees, palms and plants envelope the structure and with walkways down the Melville Mountain to make it feels as if you’re rooted deep in nature. It’s rustic and charming and has a calming and tranquil ambience. Each room has its own unique view and large windows maximize this, with gorgeous bathrooms fitted with a rain shower, Nespresso coffee machine, trendy Marshall speaker and UHD smart TV with Netflix and YouTube. And, yes, Pablo House has all-over Wi-Fi connectivity that actually works throughout! Suite 1 and 2 are both standard double rooms, suite 3 offers a deluxe double room and is more spacious, suite 4 and 5 are deluxe twin rooms and accommodate up to two guests each, suite 6 is a superior double room and
suite 8 is the crème de la crème where we recommend you book – this deluxe loft accommodates up to four guests and is a double story dream. There’s a kitchen and fridge, which allows for a self-catering option, as well as a beautiful dining room, self-contained workspace, lounge area and expansive bathroom. This self-contained oasis boasts its very own private terrace too, so you’ll have your very own little nook with a north- facing city view that could easily melt hearts (especially over sunset). Plus, throughout your stay you’ll be kept company by Jana Hamman and Pauline Gutter, whose artworks decorate the walls handsomely. You won’t want to miss the hotel’s pool and chill zone. Surrounded by rich and lush greenery, the pool is down at the bottom of the property and is molded around the existing environment with an unbelievable view of the Melville Koppies. When you’re basking in the sunshine on a lounger, you’ll feel as if you’re in a five-star resort in the bush. This fantastic slice of paradise is where we recommend you spend hours until your tummy starts to grumble – then visit the restaurant on site. Dos Manos offers hotel guests and regular Joburgers a private dining experience beneath the stars. While the sky is being painted rose gold, pink and sweet orange, order one of the famous cocktails: A gin sling, a lemongrass ginger mule or a kiwi martini should do the trick, accompanied with a flavour bomb of puff-puff pizza that’s all handmade and prepared on site. The simple menu also offers salads, Greek style lamb chops, chicken wings, panko prawns and delicious nachos with guac. It ticks all the taste buds – humble food that’s excellently priced and all created beautifully. The restaurant is open six days a week for lunch and dinner but for breakfast you’ll grab a tuk-tuk and head on over to sister eatery Pablo Eggs-Go-Bar. What you’ll remember: The exquisite depiction of local art celebrated all over the property. Gloat to friends about art by South African artists Richard Smith and Julian Venter and South African photographer Fausto Becatti.
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3 4th Avenue, Melville m 066 215 0993 K www.pablohouse.co.za E @pablohousemelville Q @pablohousemelville Hello Joburg • March 2020 • www.hellojoburg.co.za
Words Bianca Spinner Images Brandon Hinton
If you’re looking for: An unforgettable staycation where you’ll escape the city and Monday blues Transport required: Order an Uber Pet-friendly: Yes
