Location: Set in the leafy suburbs of Sandhurst in the heart of the City of Gold, Johannesburg, three miles from the city centre. The Saxon is a 45-minute drive from both OR Tambo and Lanseria airports.

First impressions: The long, gated drive and lush manicured gardens that surround the property feel more akin to a country estate than a city hotel. The enormous lobby features two sweeping staircases and a selection of African artwork that complements more contemporary works of art. The conscientious staff whisked my luggage to my Luxury Villa Suite while I enjoyed a well-earned chilled glass of champagne during the seamless check-in process.

The facts: Set across four hectares this historic property was the former home of the wealthy Steyn family who invited Nelson Mandela to stay with them when he was released from prison. It’s here that he penned his bestselling autobiography Long Walk to Freedom. Today, Mandela’s presence is felt throughout with countless artworks of the legend on display.

The Saxon was completely refurbished during the pandemic, and a further nod to Mandela has been created in the new-look Qunu restaurant where you’ll find a mural depicting a sunset over the Shambala Private Game Reserve – the Saxon’s sister property and a place Mandela loved to stay. The hotel has 53 suites, plus three villas with private pools and 24-hour butler service. There is a private lift from the car park to the villas, a nice touch for A-listers and politicians who are regulars to the property. My villa was furnished with a king-sized four-poster bed dressed in the finest white linen.