Forest Haven

Forest Haven Overview

You know what really surprised me about Forest Haven? I honestly wasn’t expecting much from a place tucked away on Talton Road – I mean, Forest Town isn’t exactly the first neighborhood that comes to mind when you think of Johannesburg, right? But this four-star gem completely changed my perspective on the area.

The moment I walked through those doors, I got why this place has such incredible ratings. There’s something genuinely warm about the whole setup – not that sterile hotel vibe you get at some of the bigger chains downtown. The staff actually remembers your name after day one (which, let’s be honest, doesn’t happen everywhere), and the rooms have this cozy, almost residential feel that makes you want to kick off your shoes immediately. I stayed in one of their standard rooms and was pleasantly shocked by how spacious it felt – you’re not bumping into furniture every time you turn around. The beds are properly comfortable too, none of that rock-hard mattress nonsense some places try to pass off as “firm support.”

What really won me over though was how perfectly positioned this place is for exploring the real Johannesburg. You’re actually close enough to pop into Rosebank for shopping or hit up the Gautrain station without dealing with the chaos of staying right in the city center, but far enough out that you can breathe a bit. The neighborhood itself has this quiet, tree-lined feel that’s surprisingly peaceful – I could actually sleep with the windows cracked open, which is saying something for Joburg. Parking was never an issue either, and honestly, that’s half the battle won right there. The breakfast situation deserves a mention too – they do this continental spread that’s way better than it needs to be, with proper coffee that doesn’t taste like it came from a machine that’s seen better days. I found myself lingering over breakfast most mornings, just enjoying the relaxed atmosphere before heading out to tackle the city. If you’re the type who values a genuine, unpretentious place where the service feels personal rather than scripted, Forest Haven really delivers on that front.

Forest Haven Accommodations

Reviews of Forest Haven

• Beautiful little flat, perfect for the weekend stay we had! Thank you for everything. – Courtney from United Kingdom – September 8, 2025 (10/10)

  As described & pictured – host was lovely & extremely accommodating!

• Exceptional – Miranda from South Africa – August 10, 2025 (10/10)

  Everything

• Amazing place. love the hosts, they were so friendly and accommodating. – Reamogetswe from South Africa – August 9, 2025 (10/10)

  Location, how easy it was and it was close to where we were going. The hosts are the best, so kind
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Safe and cosy. – Boland from Australia – July 8, 2025 (10/10)

  Ingrid is a great host. The location is very central to the Holocaust museum and a great cafe (Issy’s). Most importantly it’s quiet and safe. I would highly recommend.

• Amazing place and great host – Kagiso from South Africa – March 30, 2025 (10/10)

  The place is spacious, clean and very beautiful with a unique charm. The hosts were extremely friendly and helpful. Will definitely book again when I'm around

• Pure bliss, Ingrid was an amazing host and the property was more than what we expected. – Wentzel from South Africa – February 3, 2025 (10/10)

  Ingrid is the nicest host ever.

• Exceptional – Johannes from Austria – December 8, 2024 (10/10)

  Thank you again for your temendous hospitality!

• A well-appointed gem, in the leafy suburbs of JHB, with a wonderful hostess, Ingrid. – Melody from South Africa – November 25, 2024 (10/10)

  The location was very central and convenient. Uber drivers arrived quickly and it was safe to walk in the neighborhood.
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• A perfect stay and very good value, will return should we visit the area again. – David from Italy – November 15, 2024 (10/10)

  Location was perfect in a beautiful quiet neighbourhood! Breakfast spot around the corner was just perfect! Cereal and milk was available in the room which we were not expecting.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing! Very good value for money with a really spacious apartment.

• I enjoyed my stay. The host was really nice and recommended places to visit – Shirley from Eswatini – October 11, 2024 (10/10)

  Everything was on point I must say
  
  What could be improved: There is nothing to dislike at the property. It was perfect

Surroundings

Facilities