Private Cottages

Private Cottages Overview

I’ll be honest, when I first pulled up to Private Cottages on Halifax Street in Bryanston, I wasn’t sure what to expect – the name’s pretty generic, right? But you know what, sometimes the most understated places surprise you the most. This four-star property sits in one of Johannesburg’s quieter northern suburbs, and there’s something refreshingly authentic about the whole setup that caught me off guard.

What really struck me was how they’ve managed to create this intimate, residential feel while still delivering proper hotel service. The cottages themselves are scattered around well-maintained gardens – not massive, but there’s enough space that you’re not hearing your neighbor’s TV through the walls (which, let’s face it, happens way too often at other places). I mean, Bryanston isn’t the flashiest part of Joburg, but that’s actually part of its charm. You’re close enough to Sandton’s business district that you won’t spend half your day in traffic, but far enough away that you can actually hear birds in the morning instead of construction noise. The staff genuinely seemed to know guests by name after a day or two, which is rare these days – they’ve got this relaxed professionalism that feels more like staying with friends who happen to run a really good guesthouse.

The practical stuff matters too, and they’ve got it sorted. Parking is secure and plentiful (seriously important in Joburg), the WiFi actually works throughout the property, and check-in was refreshingly quick. I noticed they keep the common areas buzzing just enough during the day but things wind down nicely in the evenings, so you get both energy and peace depending on what you need. The location on Halifax Street might not sound glamorous, but you’re literally minutes from decent restaurants and shopping without being stuck in the middle of tourist chaos. Actually, some of the best local spots are within walking distance if you don’t mind a short stroll – something the front desk folks will happily point you toward if you ask. It’s one of those places where the 8-out-of-10 rating makes perfect sense once you’ve been there; not flashy enough for a perfect score, but solid and reliable in ways that matter more than fancy lobbies and overpriced minibars.

Private Cottages Accommodations

Reviews of Private Cottages

• Fair – Carla from South Africa – April 1, 2024 (5/10)

  Location to St Stithians couldn't be better! We didn't pay a lot for the accommodation so got fair value for money. Our unit was very clean & hosts very hospitable
  
  What could be improved: Unfortunately the lack of decor detracted from the comfort of the unit…it looked terribly sparse & bare and lacked soul.
  
  Having only a single curtain in the bedroom which had to stretch the entire window compromised privacy.
  
  I have decorated many homes, B&B's etc and know it could be inexpensively improved (buys from marketplace & auctions, Mr Price etc).
  
  Not having our own remote & having to phone to be let in & out was also quite frustrating.
  
  Having a double bed (as opposed to queen or king) was really a tad too uncomfortable. Only 1 pillow each, no headboard, only one sidetable with only 1 lamp. And the single curtain (a pair is needed)
  
  The swimming pool is evidently being fixed, but in the meantime is green & unsightly.

• Very Good – Neil from Reunion – January 14, 2024 (8/10)

• Good – Vijay from Botswana – July 8, 2023 (7/10)

• Exceptional – Elzette from South Africa – May 27, 2023 (10/10)

  Truly a home away from home. Superb hosts.

• The Host and Cottage exceeded our expectations. Will definitely stay there again and recommend it! – Julie from Australia – May 12, 2023 (10/10)

  The Host was well organized. Everything we needed was provided for us. We stayed at the cottage during the time of widespread electricity loadshedding in SA. However, the Host provided us with the daily schedule, so we knew when power was out which helped in planning our day. We appreciated this very much.
  The Host was very helpful in organizing transportation such as Uber drivers for us which was a bonus and unexpected. This made our stay there very easy and enjoyable. The Host was also very attentive and accommodating to our needs during our 2 weeks stay at the cottage. She went out of her way to make our stay there very pleasant. We felt very much at home the entire time we were there.
  The grounds are well manicured, beautiful and serene. By the way, you can also do bird watching in the beautiful grounds of the cottage which was totally unexpected!!
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing we didn't like about the cottage or the Host. The cottage was clean and the beddings which my husband and I are very particular about when we travel were clean and fresh all the time. It was a very good experience for us being at the Cottage the entire 2 weeks.

• The stay was acceptable but certain aspects of the trip left a lot to be desired! – Pako from Botswana – February 20, 2023 (5/10)

  The location of the place was spot on and the facilities were welcoming and in order. In addition, I felt safe in the location. Furthermore, I liked the parking lot for my car.
  
  What could be improved: I did not like the fact that my privacy was invaded on; needless to say that I had to let the staff know anytime I was leaving the premises or arriving at the premises.

• Exceptional – Jayi-murima from Kenya – February 9, 2023 (10/10)

  Great Space, Excellent hosts, peace and quiet and close to Sandton Mediclinic (walking distance)

• Very Good – Romy from South Africa – February 5, 2023 (8/10)

  Very quiet, peaceful setting. Nice central location.
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing we didn't like.

• My stay at Private Cottage was marvellous with God's blessings in it. – Kiyeti from Tanzania – December 15, 2022 (10/10)

  I enjoyed the reception, the support and without forgetting the lovely big sis Lulu ( Dog ), she was so caring checking on me every morning.
  
  What could be improved: Issue of electricity, the property advised to have at least gas cooker/ stoves to save during loadshedding.

• Disappointing. – Tim from Australia – October 16, 2022 (4/10)

  The owner was welcoming, warm and friendly. There were also two large dogs that we got to know and love. Parking for the car was off the street and secure and we felt safe at all times. The property is large and had a lovely garden and areas in which to sit outside.
  
  What could be improved: Sadly, we were confronted with power outages and water cut-offs for several hours of every day. There was no fan in the room and it was warm and uncomfortable without any air flow at night during the power outages. The swimming pool was in a bad state. We cut our stay short here to find alternative accommodation.

Surroundings

Facilities