Mount Nelson: The Joyful Home of Cape Town
Mount Nelson: The Joyful Home of Cape Town

There are few more welcoming sights at the end of a long journey than that of Mount Nelson. We first were painted pink to celebrate the coming of peace in 1918 and the hue proved so popular that almost a century later, we can still be seen blushing with pride for miles around.
SUPERBLY LOCATED at the foot of Table Mountain, Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, is an oasis within walking distance from Cape Town’s beating heart. From the moment you arrive, you are welcomed into a world of supreme elegance and timeless luxury. It’s an atmosphere akin to the lively city centre.
Our awe inspiring stone-columned entrance and palm-lined driveway date back to 1925. They were installed to welcome the Prince of Wales. Equally magnificent are the verdant grounds where John Lennon enjoyed meditating. They abound with wild flowers and conjure the magic of South Africa. You’ll be enraptured before our top-hatted doorman has ushered you inside.
Here, the spaciousness and service hark back to the splendour of a bygone era. Our colonial interiors have been gorgeously restored and punctuated with stylish, modern touches. There’s so much for guests to enjoy within. Unlock your creative side by taking a class with our resident artist, or unwind and indulge at the Librisa Spa. Our holistic treatments use natural ingredients to soothe body and soul.


Mount Nelson offers a taste of South Africa found nowhere else. Our famed Afternoon Tea delights guests with delicate sandwiches and our signature blend of tea. Meanwhile the Planet Restaurant has become a favourite of Cape Town’s movers and shakers, thanks to its chic setting and mouth-watering dishes. Make sure to stop for a cocktail at the restaurant’s bar—truly out-of-this-world—or book the Chef’s Table for an unrivalled interactive culinary experience.
Of course, the wonders extend beyond our walls. Get your adrenalin pumping on court with our resident tennis pro or, if you’re feeling lazy, soak up the sun by one of two outdoor pools. Set among rose-scented gardens and pretty picket fences, our beautifully-restored cottages make idyllic romantic hideaways. Snuggle up in front of the fire or enjoy breakfast on your private balcony while taking in the stunning vistas.
However you choose to spend your time, our staff will do their utmost to ensure you have an unforgettable stay. After all, we’ve been doing this since 1899, so you can trust us to take good care of you.
Delve deeper into
You might also enjoy

La Samanna: The Sanctuary of St. Martin
Perched above Baie Longue, La Samanna is a place where elegance and tranquillity mingle in perfect harmony. Step inside our legendary hotel, in the heart of Terres Basses.

In the Dog House
Finding the perfect luxury hotel that is dog-friendly can be a ruff task. Discover the Belmond hotels that allow pets and their stylish globetrotting owners, from pet-friendly hotels in Italy to luxurious doggy havens in the English countryside.

Homegrown Heritage
Stepping aboard British Pullman offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the golden age of travel. On this historic train, discover the work of British craftsmen creating luxury train travel for the 21st century.

British Pullman: The Golden Age of Travel
Throughout time, many have praised the vintage charms of our train. Today, it’s your turn to step onboard the most historical carriages of our glamorous British Pullman.

Inside the Britannic Explorer
As our new luxury sleeper train, the Britannic Explorer, joins the rails of England and Wales in summer 2025, Wallpaper* design director Hugo Macdonald meets the brains behind the uniquely British interiors.

Ask The Concierge: Octavio Tovar’s San Miguel de Allende
In the newest instalment of our Ask the Concierge series, we’re heading to the cobblestoned, colonial-era city of San Miguel de Allende in Mexico’s central highlands. Octavio Tovar, head concierge at Casa de Sierra Nevada hotel, gives us his keys to the city's artistic soul.

Ripple Effect: A Year of Marine Conservation
As thalassophiles (lovers of the sea) celebrate World Oceans Day, we’re looking back on a busy year of initiatives at Belmond focused on the preservation of the oceans – from spotlighting endangered monk seals to projecting disruptive art in unexpected locations.