Pretoria Hotels perfect for Rovos Rail bookings

Pretoria is the kick-off point for world renowned rail expeditions on the Blue Train and Rovos Rail;; and guests deserve accommodations that match the grandeur of these legendary journeys. Our handpicked Pretoria hotels offer unparalleled luxury and convenience, perfectly positioned for seamless transfers to Pretoria Station. Let us arrange your stay and transfers to complement your Rovos Rail or Blue Train adventure—email rob@southafrica.to to get started!

Whether you’re setting off for Victoria Falls by rail or returning from an unforgettable journey, these premier Pretoria hotels offer the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and proximity to ensure a seamless experience.

Luxury hotels near Rovos Rail & The Blue Train

Castello Di Monte
- Distance: 24-minute drive from Rovos Rail Pretoria Station; 14-minute drive from The Blue Train Lounge.
- Ambiance: Romantic Italian-inspired castle architecture with lush gardens and breathtaking Pretoria views.
- Amenities: Gourmet dining with fresh, seasonal ingredients, a serene pool, and attentive service.
- Guest Feedback: Travelers praise the romantic setting, HUGE rooms and scenic views, though some mention dated décor. Recent updates are enhancing the experience.
  - "Booking was easy, the hotel is small but really fine, situated in a fine neighborhood with villas and embassies. They also organized the transfer from O R Tambo Airport in Joburg to the hotel and that one from the hotel to Rovos Rail station, everything on time."
- Why Stay Here: Perfect for couples seeking a luxurious, romantic prelude to their rail journey.
The Rasmus Guest House
- Distance: 23-minute drive from Rovos Rail's Pretoria Train Station, 11-minute drive from The Blue Train arrivals/departures lounge in Pretoria.
- Ambiance: A boutique hotel with modern amenities and a serene ambiance. Conveniently located near various attractions. It's a great choice for travelers seeking a cozy yet upscale experience in Pretoria. Guests love the lush gardens but note occasional noise and minor service inconsistencies.
- Guest Feedback: Guests appreciate its personalised service and proximity to restaurants and shopping.
  - "Superb view from the breakfast table. We used it as a stop-over between Johannesburg airport and Pretoria Rovos rail station. This was ideal because of the lack of time and early start."
Menlyn Boutique Hotel
- Distance: 25-minute drive from Rovos Rail's Pretoria Train Station, 19-minute drive from The Blue Train arrivals/departures lounge in Pretoria.
- Ambiance: Prime location opposite Menlyn Shopping Centre. Elegant design and upscale amenities. Fine dining at the on-site restaurant, which serves a variety of international cuisines. A spa offering a range of treatments and wellness services. Guests love the serene pool and fine dining at The Black Bamboo, but some note minor issues like parking challenges and highway noise.
- Guest Feedback:
  - "Stayed on a stop-over to Rovos Rail, as it is quite near rail terminal. Terrific value for money - would recommend one of their apartments, well worth the small extra cost. Delightful hotel, though no variation in menu, which was the same for lunch or dinner. Food too experimental for me. Good security and lovely staff."
Ivory Manor Boutique Hotel
- Distance: 29-minute drive from Rovos Rail's Pretoria Train Station, 18-minute drive from The Blue Train arrivals/departures lounge in Pretoria.
- Ambiance: The hotel is praised for its luxurious, themed suites and dining, with guests loving the serene gardens and personalised service. Minor issues include occasional service oversights and noise in some rooms.
- Guest Feedback:
  - "This hotel is wonderful. I stayed here for two nights prior to traveling on Rovos Rail to Victoria Falls. I arrived on an overnight flight, and even though it was 9 a.m. hotel time, they gave me access to my room so I could sleep!"
  - "They made arrangements to pick us up from Rovos Train and drop off at airport. High luxury facility. Also loved the cigar bar. The beds were full-sized king beds which we loved."
The Waterkloof Guest House

Distance: 22 minute drive from Rovos Rail's Pretoria Train Station, 15 minute drive from The Blue Train arrivals/departures lounge in Pretoria.
A luxurious guesthouse with a prime Waterkloof location, personalised service and stunning views. Guests enjoy the pool and breakfast but note occasional outdated facilities and Wi-Fi issues.

CT Hotel (previously known as the Sheraton Pretoria Hotel)
- Distance: 11 minute drive from Rovos Rail's Pretoria Train Station, 10 minute drive from The Blue Train arrivals/departures lounge in Pretoria.
- Known for its elegant rooms and beautiful gardens, this hotel provides a serene escape. Guests praise its central location near the Union Buildings and the Pretoria Botanical Gardens and business districts. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining experiences, including a restaurant serving international cuisine and a stylish bar for cocktails and light bites. The hotel includes a fitness center, outdoor pool, and spa services. Criticism includes the facilities being outdated and inconsistent service. “Stayed here before boarding Rovos Rail. The location was great, and the staff were helpful with transfers, but the hotel needs a refresh.”
The Capital Menlyn Maine
- Distance: 27 minute drive from Rovos Rail's Pretoria Train Station, 22 minute drive from The Blue Train arrivals/departures lounge in Pretoria.
- A contemporary hotel featuring upscale amenities and a vibrant location near Menlyn Maine shops. Guests enjoy the pool and dining but note occasional slow service and Wi-Fi issues. “Perfect for a luxurious stay before our train journey. The staff arranged transfers seamlessly, and the location was vibrant.”
Irene Country Lodge
- Distance: 29 minute drive from Rovos Rail's Pretoria Train Station, 20 minute drive from The Blue Train arrivals/departures lounge in Pretoria.
- A tranquil country retreat offering a unique farm-style experience with upscale comforts like the renowned Camdeboo Day Spa, all set beside a serene lake. Guests praise the beautiful pastoral setting and exceptional dining, but note that some rooms could use a refresh and that service can be inconsistent during busy periods. “A perfect escape for our anniversary weekend. Waking up to the sounds of the farm was magical, and the tranquil setting is a true retreat from the city.”

These hotels not only provide a lavish experience but are also conveniently located for your travel plans. They are an ideal way to start a luxury train trip from Pretoria to Cape Town. And if you're also visiting the mother city on your train journey; check out these luxury hotels in Cape Town for Rovos Rail and Blue Train Guests.

Your favourite hotel not on the list? Email rob@southafrica.to so we can add it.

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Outside Pretoria: Unique Escapes

For travelers seeking a distinctive prelude or finale to their rail journey, these accommodations outside Pretoria offer unforgettable experiences, from scenic views to immersive wildlife adventures.

Château La Mer Exclusive Guest House

Distance: 38-minute drive from Rovos Rail Pretoria Station; 42-minute drive from The Blue Train Lounge.
Ambiance: French-inspired elegance with stunning views of Hartbeespoort Dam and Magaliesberg Mountains.
Amenities: Spacious rooms, a relaxing pool, and proximity to the Aerial Cableway.
Guest Feedback: Highly rated by couples for its romantic charm; minor Wi-Fi issues are being addressed.
Why Stay Here: Ideal for a scenic retreat. Pair your stay with a Hartbeespoort Hot Air Balloon experience for an unforgettable adventure.

Out in Africa Wildlife Lodge

Distance: 59-minute drive from Rovos Rail Pretoria Station; 65-minute drive from The Blue Train Lounge.
Ambiance: A 1920s safari-inspired retreat with luxurious tents and an authentic bush experience.
Amenities: Unique dining in a vintage Rovos Rail carriage, featuring African, French, and Greek cuisine, plus wildlife sightings like cheetahs and giraffes from private decks.
Guest Feedback: Guests rave about the hospitality of owners Ludger and Monique and the immersive experience.
Why Stay Here: Perfect for adventurers seeking a luxurious wildlife escape before or after their train journey.

Earn Travel Vouchers with Your Pretoria Hotel Review

Booked a Pretoria hotel for your Rovos Rail or Blue Train journey with us? Share your experience and earn a travel voucher! Email rob@southafrica.to with a brief write-up about your rail journey to/from Pretoria and your hotel stay, and we’ll send you a voucher to use on your next train adventure.

Blue Train Lounge Pretoria

Conveniently located for arrivals and departures. View the exact location on our map (embedded below).

Rovos Rail Pretoria Station:

Located at 1 Transnet Avenue, Pretoria, also serving as Rovos Rail’s head office. If you need directions or get lost, call 012-315-8242.

Travel tip

The nearest Gautrain station is Pretoria Station, a 15-minute taxi or Uber ride to Rovos Rail Station. Book transfers with us for a hassle-free experience—email rob@southafrica.to.

Rovos Rail's Pretoria station building

Start or end your Rovos Rail or Blue Train journey in style with these luxurious Pretoria hotels. From romantic castles to vibrant urban retreats, there’s a perfect stay for every traveler. Contact rob@southafrica.to to book your hotel and transfers today!

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