The best sundowner spots in Joburg

An invite popped into my inbox from the folks at Tsogo Sun. What seemed like a simple slow day of afternoon sundowners and snacks, with a group of fellow industry people, turned out to be an absolute treat and exploration adventure of Joburg.

The theme of the event was to explore all the sundecks and views at some of Joburg’s most prestigious hotels. Many people aren’t aware that hotels open up their doors to the public who aren’t booked as guests to enjoy afternoon cocktails and drinks.

Our quest got under way with a short lunch at the 15th Century Italy inspired Palazzo Corsini at Monte Casino. At a deck overlooking a small river where swans come out to play and provide great visuals for the selfie-loving generation.

Live entertainment is part of the package, a saxophonist treating guests to jazzy tunes.

San Deck at Sandton Sun Hotel.

Our hosts really wanted the guests to get into the spirit of the experience and this was made more thrilling by giving us a quiz on our way to the next hotel.

Predicting our next venue was easy, as the name Foxon was used in the card given to us with the clues. Mathew Foxon is the executive chef at 54 on Bath in Rosebank.

Foxon, who took the time out to welcome guests and introduce himself, prepared a number of delectable treats from mains to sweets.

The deck area at 54 on Bath is called the Perrier Jouet Champagne Garden and it’s a treat for premium champagne lovers. The drink of choice served in a brut or rose.

A garden overlooks a pool that appears to run along the top of the roof. The atmosphere is serene and is perfect for a relaxed after-work drink or a tea party with the girls.

54 on Bath.

The third venue was the Island Bar at Southern Sun Hyde Park, which is centred around an infinity pool with exquisite views.

Each venue is popular because it offers different elements.

Aside from being an ideal young BEE meeting spot, the Island Bar also offers different food and drink specials on various days of the week. What you experience on a Thursday afternoon watching the sunset may be completely different on a Sunday sitting at the deck at lunchtime enjoying treats from the indoor restaurant, Luce.

Packed with many couples on after-work dates, the view of the Joburg skyline is priceless.

Our group was buzzing while being escorted to the Sandton Sun hotel. The sundeck at the top of the hotel was a welcome surprise for those of us who didn’t know that such contemporary spaces for people to enjoy exist.

Island Bar at Southern Sun Hyde Park.

The view is of the Sandton skyline which lights up strikingly at night. Guests are welcomed by the mellow tunes of a guest DJ. Cocktail tables are set up for those who want a quick drink or some privacy. Another option is to get a long table set up for an outdoor dinner.

I bumped into a few friends who work in the area and they swear that this is the place to be on a Thursday night. I’m totally convinced it is.

The décor is sexy with areas that look like semi egg-shaped bird cages set up for guests to relax in. The venue also provides a bonfire in case you start to feel a slight chill.

Joburg offers many various types of decks for those who enjoy a bit of a view amongst the company of friends.

For more info, check out www.tsogosun.com

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