Hotel check: City Lodge Hatfield

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Background

City lodge Hatfield opened in October 2010 and is the fifth addition to City Lodge hotels in Pretoria. Other City lodge hotels in the area include: City lodge Lynnwood, Courtyard Arcadia, Town lodge Menlo and road lodge Centurion. Hatfield is more well-known as a vibey, student-filled suburb. However, with the upcoming development of the Gautrain station, Hatfield is set to become a bustling gateway to the business hubs of Pretoria.

What’s it Like?

On arrival, I received a friendly welcome from the reception staff, who were both polite and professional. The check in process was quick and easy, with welcome drinks at hand providing much-needed refreshment after a busy day. The hotel has a modern, contemporary feel, with flowing, well designed business and leisure spaces. Safe and secure underground parking gave me peace of-mind that my car was safe for the night. An added convenience was the elevator access from the parking area direct to my floor. The hotel is well-finished and fully equipped to meet the accommodation needs of business and leisure travellers alike.

Where is it?

Situated on Hilda Street, Hatfield, the hotel is within walking distance of the soon-to-be-opened Gautrain Hatfield Station. Close to Pretoria’s CBD, just a few minutes from the city’s sporting and cultural attractions and with excellent access to the city’s major roads and surrounding freeway system. The hotel is ideally placed for both business and leisure travellers to the Jacaranda City.

Room Facilities

City Lodge Hatfield has 184 spacious, air-conditioned rooms with double bed or twin bed options. Each room is furnished with a flat-screen television and DSTv bouquet. The en suite bathroom with bath and separate shower was roomy. The motorised shutter door retracts, adding an open-plan feel to the bedroom. The room was elegantly finished and well thought out, with a lovely view of the pool area. The rooms all come standard with tea- and coffee-making facilities, an electronic safe large enough to hold a laptop, and a desk which doubles up as a dresser. Internet connectivity is available through the telephone port in all rooms. Rooms that cater for the special needs of the physically disabled are also available.

Restaurants & Bars

The hotel offers an open breakfast area, serving a full English breakfast or a continental breakfast. There is also a coffee shop serving light meals and snacks until 22h00. If you are looking for something more substantial, there is a host of restaurants, pubs and bars in and around Hatfield. Menlyn Shopping Centre is a 10-minute drive away if you require further dining options and entertainment.

Business & Meeting Facilities

City Lodge Hatfield is aimed at meeting the needs of business travellers. Two fully equipped, large meeting rooms are available, a 10-seater and a 12-seater. Although I did not see a projector in either of the rooms, a well-sized, wall-mounted flat-screen television was set up in each room. All standard facilities are provided for, and a printing/Internet station is closely located for any last minute printing or information requirements. The meeting rooms are ideally suited for meetings, presentations and workshops.

Leisure Facilities

The leisure facilities at the hotel are basic. A wooden pool deck and lounging area surrounds a sparkling blue pool. The lush, albeit small lawns make for the perfect spot for an evening sundowner or play area for kids to have a run-around. The fitness room is equipped with basic cardio-vascular equipment and a few weights, allowing you to keep your muscles and heart stimulated while away from your home gym.

Verdict

The hotel is geared towards easy business travel, offering professional and friendly service in a convenient location. Its centrality ensures that City Lodge Hatfield is poised to be at the top of your list when seeking accommodation on the Pretoria area. The hotel gets full marks for attention to detail and consideration. 

Contact

Tel: +27 12 423 5000, citylodge.co.za

Debbie Fairweather