Melville Turret Guesthouse

Melville Turret Guesthouse Overview

I’ll be honest – when I first pulled up to Melville Turret Guesthouse on Second Avenue, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. The name had me picturing some sort of medieval castle situation, but what I found was actually this charming, quirky place that somehow perfectly captures what makes Melville so special. You know how some neighborhoods just have that creative, slightly bohemian vibe? Well, this three-star guesthouse sits right in the heart of it all, and I mean that literally – you’re walking distance from 7th Street with all its cafés and vintage shops, but tucked away enough that you’re not dealing with the weekend party noise.

The thing about staying here is that you really get a feel for what it’s like to live in Johannesburg’s artsy quarter. I spent most of my mornings wandering over to Bean There Coffee for a proper flat white (seriously, their beans are roasted right there in the neighborhood), then exploring the little galleries and bookshops that seem to pop up everywhere. The guesthouse itself has this wonderfully eclectic feel – each room is different, and mine had these gorgeous pressed ceilings that you don’t see much anymore. The owners clearly put thought into the details without going overboard with fancy stuff you don’t actually need. What I really appreciated was how quiet it gets at night, even though you’re in the middle of everything. The garden area is perfect for evening drinks, and there’s something really satisfying about sitting outside with a local beer while the jacarandas drop their purple petals everywhere (if you’re visiting in October, you’ll know what I mean).

Honestly, this place works because it doesn’t try too hard. The staff actually know the area – when I asked about dinner recommendations, they didn’t just hand me a tourist brochure but told me which nights to hit up Nikki’s Ooven for their wood-fired pizzas and warned me that Lucky Bean gets absolutely packed on Friday nights. Parking can be a bit of an adventure on the street, but there’s secure parking available, which in Joburg is not something you take for granted. I’d say this spot is perfect if you want to experience the real Melville – not the sanitized tourist version, but the actual creative, slightly gritty, absolutely authentic neighborhood that locals love. Just don’t expect room service or a concierge desk; what you get instead is something much better: a genuine taste of one of South Africa’s most interesting urban communities.

Melville Turret Guesthouse Accommodations

Reviews of Melville Turret Guesthouse

• It was beautiful – Masi from Malawi – September 9, 2025 (8/10)

  The coziness and friendly staff
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Beautiful heritage house – Pablo from Spain – August 23, 2025 (9/10)

  Lovely heritage house in a beautiful neighbourhood. Good room with a good quality-price range. Nice staff.
  
  What could be improved: Amenities could include a little bit more.

• Very Good – Renate from South Africa – July 28, 2025 (8/10)

  Super welcoming host.
  
  What could be improved: Variety of breakfast could be somewhat better.

• Exceptional – Conan from Eswatini – July 23, 2025 (10/10)

  Prismatic was exceptionally good to us, offering every bit of assistance no matter how basic it looked.
  
  The Guest House is a safe and quiet environment with a variety of restaurants nearby within a walking distance.
  
  What could be improved: When the power went off for 21 hours, continuous black out in the area

• Comfortable and good value location near the hospital – Bogdan from United States – July 8, 2025 (9/10)

  Excellent location, friendly staff, and great breakfast included. We have stayed here many times, as it is close to the hospital. Walkable area, close to restaurants and shopping.
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing not to like. The property is aging well, but will need some TLC in the near future.

• Great value, peaceful, comfy accommodation with excellent location in Melville. – Rodger from South Africa – June 21, 2025 (9/10)

  Peaceful, clean, central, and Prisca is a gem -). Tasty fresh breakfasts.
  
  What could be improved: Suggestions for improvement :
  The garden light outside the bedrooms could be dimmed somewhat as it shines brightly into the rooms at night. Suggest switching to a 40W globe.

• Very Good – Paola from Italy – June 10, 2025 (8/10)

  Beautiful house, the owner is kind
  
  What could be improved: Problems with hot water.
  The neighborhood is totally dark at night and you can’t find places for dinner easily if you are a tourist (we used uber eats)

• Delightful guesthouse in a pretty suburb that is close to cafes and bars – Dianne from Australia – June 3, 2025 (10/10)

  This is a lovely guest house. There has been a lot of attention to detail for all the furnishings. Our loft room was very comfortable with a great bath and plenty of space. Prisca was very welcoming and helpful. It’s a safe two block walk to bars and restaurants in Melville. Highly recommended!

• We´ll be back 😉 – Peter from Germany – March 9, 2025 (10/10)

  Everything. Especially prisca was a perfect host. So warm hearted and friendly!!!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. Everything was excellent.

• Exceptional – C from Australia – January 12, 2025 (10/10)

  Great Service, great spot – lovely people

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Facilities