Widely regarded as the wealthiest suburb in South Africa, Sandhurst is perfectly situated for visitors to Sandton’s business district. It’s filled with plush retreats, and bougainvillea-lined boulevards, a place where almost every house has a cultivated garden and the sense of green is inescapable. Situated in the south-east of Sandton, in northwestern Johannesburg, it’s long been one of South Africa’s ultimate places to live.
Sandhurst feels like an affluent village on the edge of a city. Dotted across the hills are villas with swimming pools and Roman columns, along with lavish apartment blocks that have glorious views across the city. Sandton Central is in the east of the suburb, a commercial centre with countless restaurants, bars, and major businesses. Then the suburb winds up a hill, the streets punctuated by ancient trees and hidden houses.
Part of Sandhurst’s appeal is the lack of thoroughfares. Only people staying in the suburb will drive here, which keeps the streets indelibly tranquil, even if they’re less than a kilometre from the bustle of central Sandton. Almost everyone gets around with private transport, as there are multiple hire car and private taxi options. From O.R. Tambo International Airport, the quickest way to Sandhurst is via the high-speed Gautrain to Sandton Station, which is next to Sandton City. This train station also provides expedited links to Pretoria and other suburbs in Johannesburg.
Sandton’s defining architectural image is found in Sandhurst. Not the villas, although many Greek and Italian-style residences feature on the front of property magazines, and the pyramid-shaped roof of the Sandton City shopping centre.