Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Town & The Western Cape

rooms

There are charming Deluxe Rooms in the main house which offer spacious accommodation with king-sized beds, separate sitting area and walk-in closet along with lovely views over the gardens, the pool or out to Table Mountain itself.

Alternatively, there are a choice of exquisite suites. The Junior Suites have large bedrooms, spacious sitting areas and balconies overlooking the gardens or with a mountain view. The Deluxe Junior Suites are large and open plan or the Studio Suites offer a kitchenette and a wet bar.

Then there are the grand 1 Bedroom Suites with their huge entrance halls, separate bedrooms, large living spaces, separate dining room and cloakrooms - all set to the back drop of Table Mountain or vistas of Cape Town. Or for a true splurge, stay in the sumptuous Presidential Suite and enjoy the soft hues, silk fabrics, marble entrance, private dining room and a wet bar along with a large private sun-drenched balcony.

The Garden Cottage Suites are a little row of historic hideaways found next to the tranquil pool. Tucked behind storybook rose gardens they offer a sumptuous home-from-home with Venetian glass, four poster beds and huge sink-into couches – perfect for enjoying a glass of wine in front of the open fireplace.

facilities & activities

The hotel's sprawling but beautifully manicured grounds are a tranquil haven – it’s hard to believe down-town Cape Town lies just outside. Tinkling fountains and emerald green lawns house two swimming pools; the Oasis (one of the largest heated pools in South Africa) is great for families and swimmers and the Cottage pool is for more leisurely bathing, being secluded and reserved for over 16's only. To really work up an appetite, hit the state-of-the-art fitness centre with a personal trainer or book a tennis, golf or swimming lesson with a professional coach.

The Librisa Spa is considered 'world-class' for its holistic treatments. Beautifully hidden inside Victorian-style buildings, the opulent spa is a sanctuary of tranquillity and restorative calm. Head to the Finnish-style sauna and steam room before finishing off with a refreshing cup of tea in the sunny conservatory. There is also the option of leaving the younger family members at the Nellie and Nelson Activity Centre or the Teen's Lounge during your treatment, leaving you to relax and enjoy at your leisure.

The hotel also offers a number of interesting excursions that offer an up-close and personal view of this fabulous city. Choose from the Historical Walking Tour that takes you through historic streets and past some of the iconic landmarks. Or, dig a little deeper and take a Township Tour; led by local residents, the tours are an authentic and informed insight into these communities. Last but by no means list we have to of course mention the Winelands - choose from specific red, white or Cap Classique tours or just sit back at your leisure and enjoy a taste of them all.

dining

It really is destination dining here (even in a city that is renowned for setting the bar high). First up is the iconic Planet Bar and Restaurant. Colloquially known as ‘Cape Town's most stylish venue' this elegant, chic establishment draws a glittering crowd who enjoy the fresh local ingredients, lovingly put together by famous chef, Rude Liebenberg, and accompanied by live Jazz. Start the evening with a sundowner in the shape of a home-made cocktail on the trendy Planet Bar terrace and enjoy some people-watching as the sun sets.

For a more intimate setting, then you can choose to dine in the hotel’s kitchen at the chef’s table and watch the experts at work creating their gastronomic delights.

For breakfast or brunch in the warm African sunshine then Oasis Bistro offers a delectable breakfast buffet on the vibrant terrace which overlooks the lovely gardens; just the start to a relaxing day or a leisurely interlude at lunchtime. Later in the afternoon, tuck into the 'best afternoon tea Cape Town has to offer'. Feast on delicate sandwiches, fresh, warm scones and strawberry jam followed by decadent, rich chocolate cake, light-as-a-feather lemon meringue and melktert - a traditional South African tart. It's all served up on the terrace and in the gardens below, for those of you travelling with smaller companions who prefer not to sit still.

family

Despite its glittering guest list and sumptuous ambience, the Nellie welcomes families with open arms. The warmth of the staff and the many child-friendly touches make this a lovely choice for a family with little and not so little ones.

After they've read their personal welcoming letter, outlining all the fun things to do in Cape Town, they'll be running to the enormous pool (heated) and exploring the beautiful gardens. There is a dedicated program of activities on offer, such as cricket matches, face-painting, storytelling and treasure hunts or even spa treatments for minis. The Nellie and Nelson Activity Centre, for children aged 3-12 years, houses games and toys and there are organised activities throughout the day. Teens are well catered for too as the Teen's Lounge is stuffed full of contemporary furniture for 'hanging out', or there's Xbox, Nintendo and a large TV.

The restaurants offer child-friendly menus and there are high-chairs should you need them. Bedrooms are spacious and some suites offer kitchenettes and interconnecting room options, along with child-sized bathrobes and slippers. The complimentary warm milk and cookies at bedtime is sure to appeal too! If parents want to sample the glitz and glamour of the nightlife here, then babysitting is available.

location

Opened in 1899 to the elite British passengers of the great liners, it occupies prime position at the foot of Table Mountain with the vibrant and cosmopolitan delights of Cape Town are on the doorstep. Fashionable Kloof and Long Street are a leisurely stroll away, with their restaurants, bars and atmospheric markets and the iconic Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is just 15 minutes’ drive in the hotel's complimentary shuttle. Cape Town's International airport is 20 minutes away and taxis can be organised on your behalf. The concierge will also organise car rentals if you prefer to explore independently.