The view of the Riverside Sun from my room on the sixth floor is simply exquisite. There’s a massive outdoor pool and patio, perfectly manicured lawns and tall trees through which a section of the Vaal River can be seen.
It doesn’t feel like we’re just 45 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the Johannesburg CBD, but we are. It also doesn’t feel like we’re at a three-star hotel. I personally couldn’t tell until the general manager mentioned it.
Our day of arrival was a relaxed one. After my friend and I checked in and soaked in the view, we headed down to the hotel’s wine cellar (which has the feel of a secret den where all the cool kids gather to do cool things).
After we enjoyed a few welcome drinks from the cellar’s bar with the other invited media, we headed into the belly of the cellar to enjoy a dinner of tasty canapés, a delicious selection of meat and other tasty treats. It was a beautiful dinner, accentuated by the unique ambience.
The following morning began with a breakfast cruise on the Vaal River. A perfect way to start any day.
As we enjoyed the buffet breakfast, we marvelled at the sight of the mansions on either side of the river, and some of the boats docked nearby. One of the houses even appeared to have a full-size rugby field.
Later on, we headed up to the top deck of the boat, for an even better view. Though it was a bit chilly, the serenity was unparalleled.
After breakfast, we had a bit of leisure time, most of which we spent at the bar, enjoying some sports highlights and by the pool area with our feet up.
The Riverside Sun is ideal for both business and family travel. For business appointments, there are several conference rooms available and the high-speed internet available here is a big plus.
Children can be entertained by the jungle gym and pool and, during holidays, such as Easter, activities like water-sliding, water-rafting target-shooting, face-painting and supervised movies at night.
The hotel’s website sums it up well: “For a country hotel escape on the Vaal River that is equipped to meet your corporate needs or provide the ideal setting for a relaxed family holiday, Riverside Sun offers it all.”
Our meals for the duration of our stay were delicious, and I particularly enjoyed how they mixed it up each time. Seeing as I have a sweet tooth, I loved that they offered a wide variety of desserts - I couldn’t get enough of the milk tart.
Other notable amenities include the spa and fitness centre.
I’ve enjoyed a number of Tsogo Sun hotels, and this is definitely one of my favourites.
For more information, visit: tsogosun.com/riverside-sun