The Mount Nelson Hotel

Rhino Review

Churchill himself passed many a pensive moment in the magnificent writing room. As I strode up the palm lined driveway from the Prince of Wales entrance I could instantly feel the sense of timelessness and history. Presidents, Captains of Industry and celebrities have been gracing these wide corridors for over 110 years.

There are very few Capetonians who haven’t taken tea at the Mount Nelson – it’s a right of passage and the ultimate indulgence. Quaff from over twenty four different teas and savour treats from the resident baker and confectioner. Ornate, pressed ceilings with a sliver trim, white, wooden, wall panels, antique pieces and a grand piano set the scene. And perhaps I should let you in on a little secret – it’s really good value! I’m also a big fan of the Planet Bar where the contemporary design compliments the classical elegance of the lounge. Fibre optic ceiling lights mimic the milky way for a Close Encounter of the Vintage Bollinger kind. Around every corner you’ll find a scene that evokes memories of the classics, from Thomas Hardy to D.H Lawrence. The Mount Nelson is in the heart of the city, yet I felt like I was in some remote paradise – acres of land, rolling lawns, rose walks, a resident horticulturalist and a decadent sense of space.

The Mount Nelson manages to be both familial and romantic – no easy task, but I can safely say that it is ideal for families with young children and honeymooners alike. Not least because there are so many places in which to have a romantic moonlit picnic or a private dinner. And for the children there’s a full list of activities, plus a play room and a games room for the teens and in-betweens. I was running late for my afternoon massage in the immaculate Librisa Spa. A huge, purpose built space that is instantly relaxing and rejuvenating. Thembisa indulged me with a fantastic back and shoulder massage. There’s also a well stocked gym if you need to release a few endorphins or, like me, work off the cheesecake, chocolate mousse and the malva pudding that I’d had for lunch. And how’s this for attention to detail - there is even a children’s spa treatment menu – perhaps a lavender and aloe Cinderella facial for your precocious little Princess?

When a place is steeped in as much history and tradition as the Mount Nelson, you might expect it to be a little stuffy, but the fact that the likes of Lewis Hamilton, Pierce Brosnan and Beyonce like to stay here should give you some indication that despite the classic character and timeless luxury, the Mount Nelson comes with all the pop-up flat screens and bling you could wish for. Plus oodles of personality. The service is slick and professional, but also friendly and warm – many of the staff have been here as long as the magnificent Oak trees. They’ve been dealing with celebrity demands for decades, so nothing is too much trouble and the team really does go out of their way with the special touches.

I cannot wait to go back.

Location

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The Mount Nelson Hotel
Orange Street
City Bowl
Cape Town
South Africa

The Mount Nelson occupies a nine-acre block in the City Bowl opposite the Company Gardens and is a short walk from Kloof Street and Long Street - the main commercial streets in Cape Town - and a pleasant walk through the Gardens takes you downtown to the central business district.