The pink lady of Cape Town needs little introduction. Since opening in 1899 “The Nellie” has attracted world leaders and celebrities to her doors. And her regal charm remains today a fashion icon among luxury hotels in Cape Town. Tucked in the leafy historic Gardens below Table Mountain, this is a desirable, upmarket location right in the centre of town.  

The pinked-frosted cake exterior, signifying peace at the end of World War I, is a feature of her British colonial past. This “romantic” period style can be seen throughout the hotel in the way of antiques, wallpapers, mirrors, silk fabrics and indoor palms. Simply put, it is classy but casual.

Location 

In the trendy, family-friendly Gardens, there is no shortage of parks and nature walks with incredible views. 

How far is the Mount Nelson Hotel from the city centre?

The company Gardens is a few minutes walk from the hotel during the day, where you’ll find shaded walkways and museums that lead into the heart of town. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, shops, art galleries and theatres to be explored, starting along Kloof street. 

Is the area safe?

Although Gardens is generally safe, you are not advised to walk these streets unaccompanied at night, or if they are deserted.

How far is the Mount Nelson Hotel from the airport? 

The hotel is conveniently located 20 km (about 12 miles) from the airport and a 20-minute journey by car. 

Facilities & services

As a Belmond luxury hotel, the services and facilities are impeccable. Whether it be a luxe spa treatment, skills lesson or jazzy brunch on the lawn, there’s never a dull moment.

Bespoke therapies and luxury treatments of the reputed Librisa Spa range from detox mud wraps to Bella Bacci cupping for relieving aches and pains. There are also exciting, quirky city tours on offer, such as first light walks, sidecar adventures and township farm tours, to name but a few. And you can always try your hand at tennis, yoga or painting lessons.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Pool
• Tennis court
• Kid’s club
• Toddler daycare
• Gym
• Spa
• Sauna
• Hair salon
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Room Service

Mount Nelson Hotel restaurants & bars

Your day begins with a hearty breakfast in the Oasis Restaurant, also your go-to for casual poolside lounging and snacking from ceviche, steak tartare and cocktails, to burgers and pizzas. 

The Lord Nelson Restaurant is famous for its enduring classic cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients and include Ostrich Carpaccio, Beef Wellington and Baked Alaska. A strong advocate of the ‘root-to-stalk, head-to-tail’ movement, head chef Rudi’s “Wasted” menu delights with satisfying meals prepared from the kitchen’s ‘offcuts’. 

By contrast, Planet Bar and Restaurant offers more modern cuisine and is a glamourous drinking spot among the locals. It has a great terrace view overlooking the gardens and Signal Hill, and cosy indoor fireplace. One of the main highlights and popular among Capetonians is the renowned Mount Nelson high tea, with a selection of over 100 teas and an expert tea sommelier to guide you through it all. 

Mount Nelson Hotel luxury accommodation

The Nellie is by no means small. A whopping 196 guest rooms, suites and restored cottages are spread across the original main building, extension and seven wings. Overlooking the picturesque grounds, the classic elegant guest rooms feel like a sanctuary within the bustling city. Some of the guest rooms have a balcony with a view of the mountains or gardens. And you may want to opt for the East Wing, more recently styled by London-based designer Inge Moore Muza Lab. 

Expect luxurious fine linens, marble bathrooms, complimentary minibar or wet bar (in some), air-conditioning, flatscreen TV, iPod dock plus some nice details that make you feel special, like nightly turndown.

Is there disabled access at the Mount Nelson Hotel?

Yes, the hotel has two fully-accessible purpose-built Junior Suites.

Your money’s worth

What is the cost of a room at the Mount Nelson Hotel?

Prices start at R8,975 for a Double Superior Room.

What’s included in your rate?

The room charge includes breakfast, stocked minibar and in-room bar (in some), Wi-Fi, and a scheduled shuttle service to the V&A Waterfront.

Mount Nelson specials & packages

Discounts are often available for group and long-stay bookings so be sure to find out more. Spa discounts are seasonal and well worth the saving. There are also packages to be paired with your stay for special occasions, a spa retreat or a safari adventure in the Chobe National Park. 

Atmosphere & guests

The romantic style and tranquil setting are ideal for couples, honeymooners or solo travellers. While the hotel is also great for families with children, offering a teen room, toddler daycare and a special spa menu for young girls. The popularity of the Mount Nelson restaurants and bars make it easy to hobnob with the visiting locals.

Mount Nelson Hotel contact information

76 Orange Street, Gardens, Cape Town, South Africa.

+27 21 483 1000

www.mountnelson.co.za