At a Glance
- Mount Nelson repositions as Cape Town’s top eco-luxury retreat amid global wellness travel boom.
- The historic hotel blends heritage charm with tech-forward upgrades to attract elite global clientele.
- Culinary tourism surges as Mount Nelson’s African-inspired fine dining gains international acclaim.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Table Mountain and wrapped in its signature pink façade, the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel has reclaimed its status as one of Africa’s most iconic five-star destinations.
With luxury tourism in Cape Town surging and demand for experiential, wellness-focused travel at an all-time high, “The Nellie” is perfectly positioned at the intersection of heritage, sustainability, and modern indulgence.
Now part of LVMH’s luxury portfolio, the Mount Nelson combines 19th-century elegance with 21st-century amenities, drawing an elite clientele that includes Hollywood stars, global CEOs, and discerning wellness travelers.
As heritage-rich travel experiences in Africa gain traction globally, the hotel’s unique blend of Edwardian charm and contemporary sophistication places it among the top luxury hotels in Cape Town and beyond.
Cape Town’s ultimate urban retreat
Spanning nine acres of manicured gardens in the heart of the city, Mount Nelson offers 198 uniquely styled rooms and suites with views of the city skyline and the famed slopes of Table Mountain.
Its central location provides a strategic advantage for both leisure and business travelers seeking luxury accommodations near Cape Town’s top attractions.
Recent upgrades have transformed the property into a hybrid haven—where historic architecture meets cutting-edge comfort.
Enhancements include tech-enabled rooms, refreshed spa facilities, and updated poolside lounging areas, catering to the rising trend of digitally connected, wellness-driven travel.
Culinary excellence with a local twist
As food tourism in South Africa accelerates, Mount Nelson has emerged as a key player in Cape Town’s elite dining scene.
Its flagship Planet Bar and Restaurant, led by acclaimed chefs, serves a refined interpretation of African cuisine using organic, locally sourced ingredients.
Its legendary afternoon tea—a tradition dating back over a century—continues to attract culinary tourists and locals alike.
Served daily in the Lounge and on the Verandah, it features over 40 premium loose-leaf teas and artisanal pastries, cementing its place among the top afternoon tea experiences in Africa.
A flagship for wellness tourism in Africa
With global wellness travel reaching record heights, Mount Nelson has evolved into a top luxury wellness retreat in South Africa.
The hotel’s Librisa Spa offers holistic therapies in restored Victorian cottages, including signature African salt stone massages and crystal healing treatments.
From guided yoga and Pilates sessions to bespoke hikes on Table Mountain and vineyard wellness tours, guests can fully immerse themselves in nature-based wellness experiences that reflect Cape Town’s unique landscape and culture.
Enhanced by eco-conscious practices and serene surroundings, Mount Nelson is redefining what it means to rejuvenate in Africa.
The preferred address for the World’s elite
Since opening in 1899, Mount Nelson has hosted heads of state, cultural icons, and royalty—including Winston Churchill, John Lennon, and Oprah Winfrey.
Its discreet charm and strategic location continue to make it a preferred luxury stay in Cape Town for celebrities and dignitaries, as well as a go-to venue for exclusive events, destination weddings, and luxury film production crews.
Leading Africa’s heritage-luxury surge
As Africa’s luxury travel market expands, high-net-worth travelers are increasingly seeking properties that deliver authenticity, sustainability, and privacy.
Mount Nelson excels on all fronts. The hotel’s eco-initiatives—including plastic-free operations and sourcing from local farms—align with the rising demand for eco-luxury hotels in Africa.
With heritage at its core and innovation woven into every guest experience, the Belmond Mount Nelson stands as a blueprint for luxury hospitality in Africa, seamlessly blending timeless elegance with the needs of today’s conscious traveler.
