Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town — Hotel in Gardens

Before I do my review I have to say we will miss Tiago who in 3 years did some incredible things particularly with the new loungers. He turned excellent service into next level He is young and enthusiastic and his next hotel will be so blessed to have him! Busi checked me and soon I had locked my valuables in the safe,and was under my tree by the pool Pamela expertly unpacked,far neater than me After the obligatory sleep by the pool it was time for my first massage. First I went to the conservatory for another snore before Sam did my first treatment,really needed after my long travels!Kelly and she were brilliant as ever,ensuring I was relaxed and got rid of any tension in my 30 year old body!!! Abbey and Celeste made sure I knew which days to be ready for my treatments! Kimberley had done my early restaurant bookings as precisely and expertly as normal Even getting a couple of items from various shops David mixed my first virgin mary i the bar,this is such a relaxed venue Sim,Benny and Gregory are outstanding. After a relaxed dinner up on Kloof street.It was time to flop into a truly comfy bad As always Lorraine and the team had prepared it perfectly aware of my medical needs!! After a good sleep it was time to gym before breakfast. When it was warm I combined this with a lovely swim.An indoor swimming pool for the non-warm days would be useful Breakfast is a veritable feast.Chris and Nicky are brilliant Lolla is a breath of fresh air full of smiles Mimi,Blessing ,Luvo and the gang bring my favourite fruit juice warm croissants and my tea.Luke the brilliant executive chef has my preference sheet all sorted. The cakes Matthew and Vicky made for concierge and the cocktail party were sublime and yummy! I still miss Wilmein who makes the best fluffy scrambled eggs(I think she should teach the younger chefs!!)She now works upstairs.I can't wait until she has her own restaurant in a few years time! Taylor,Fatid Bonga and Inga look after me by the pool and ensure my sleeps are not disturbed.Danielle is also always about making sure everything is running smoothly Reception is exceptional Raechel,Alex Washington and the whole team are friendly and efficient. Mandi is such a laugh😀 Michael although wrong on Rugby substitutes along with Clemant and Stehan and Warwick keep checking everything is going well! Housekeeping is just exceptional Pumza and keeps my room.neat and tidy. The evening turn down is immaculate 😀 Turning to Concierge Andria, Muchi Kimberley my pre arrival planner,Mandesi my Matzo shopper!,Molebz Zwelandile and new addition Thembela are simply the best.I am so grateful to them all Andria is currently SA concierge of the year.While all of the team are incredible,precise and brilliant,as well as being fun and efficient she is just unbelievable Every request however bizarre is met after one ask.The Jacques Kallis of the Concierge team😀😀 Thanks to them all as it means I have to do nothing The porters are also amazing Kennedy,Mbuso(I hope I have spelt that right and Siya are utterly brilliant whether picking up laundry taking things to the room or just opening taxi doors! Ben expertly ran my surprise cocktail party and Jenay-Lee did all the preparation the whole team came up with great plans so Lauren was at the event with a brilliant cock and bull story!! Afternoon tea was a wonderful treat with Craig sorting out the teas! The savouries are just yummy Una the real boss is truly brilliant at

ensuring Management are in the right place and is so calm and friendly! Klaus led the whole team superbly,he has big shoes to fill😀 obviously in 3 and a half weeks things will go wrong but a quiet word well away from prying ears gets things sorted calmly and efficiently Sorry if I missed some people pending old age!! This is a very special hotel Creating memories with efficiency fun and professionalism Thank you for a wonderful stay I am so grateful and lucky...

Unmatched Luxury and Thoughtful Service in Cape Town’s Most Iconic Hotel

The Belmond Mount Nelson is a serene, pink-hued dream nestled at the foot of Table Mountain. It delivers the kind of luxury that’s both gracious and detailed—where every moment feels considered and every space, intentional.

THE GROUNDS The grounds and architecture are breathtaking. From the lush gardens to the refined interiors, the entire property exudes timeless elegance. Rooms are beautifully appointed with plush bedding, deep soaking tubs, rainfall and high-pressure showers, and layered lighting that makes every corner feel like a personal sanctuary.

THE SERVICE Service here is on another level. Housekeeping ensures your room feels restored to perfection—folding clothes left out, organizing toiletries, setting out robes and slippers, and replenishing snacks and drinks without being asked. Their attention to detail is unmatched.

THE SPA I indulged in a facial at the spa and can confidently say it was one of the best I’ve ever had. The spa lounge is just as memorable—quiet, tranquil, and luxurious, with flowing tea, sparkling wine, and delicious bites to complete the experience.

DINING Dining at Mount Nelson is an absolute treat. The high tea is a glamorous affair, elegant and indulgent with every detail executed flawlessly. The morning breakfast buffet was an experience in itself—with a vast, fresh, and beautifully presented selection that made me wish breakfast here could be a daily ritual. Their bar and restaurants are just as chic—effortlessly stylish and inviting, with a buzzing yet relaxed energy.

THE HOTEL CHAIN Throughout my stay, the staff remembered my name, preferences, and small details—those personal touches that truly elevate the experience. Having stayed at other Belmond properties, I can say with certainty that Mount Nelson lives up to the brand’s world-class reputation.

This is a place you’ll want to return to again and again. A peaceful escape, a luxurious base for exploring Cape Town, and an experience that lingers long...

My wife and I stayed at Mount Nelson from May 15–19, the final stop on our honeymoon after Kapama and Stellenbosch — and it was hands-down the best hotel experience we've ever had. We even extended our stay by a night because we couldn’t bear to leave!

Special thanks to Kimberley from Concierge, who helped plan our entire stay for months in advance. From restaurant recommendations to transport bookings, she was phenomenal. Every interaction with the concierge staff made us feel genuinely cared for.

Our transfer from Stellenbosch was a highlight in itself — a spacious Mercedes van with water, mints, hotspot, and music controls made it a surprisingly fun ride. Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by staff who took care of our luggage and greeted us with big smiles.

Reception generously upgraded us to a junior suite, and while it wasn’t ready on arrival, Kelly gave us a lovely tour. When we got to the room, we were blown away — spacious, full of sunlight, a luxurious bathroom, fresh flowers, and a welcome tray with pink G&Ts and macarons.

Every detail of our stay was thoughtfully considered. Housekeeping left sweet notes, pillow sprays, and little gifts. The breakfast at Oasis was unforgettable — fresh fruits, eggs, pastries, crepes, omelets, and the best lattes in Cape Town.

The service was consistently outstanding. Planet Bar was a blast thanks to David, Simon, Xabisco, Clement, and their mixologist Jono. When we mentioned we were doing afternoon tea, Clement kindly arranged a tasting with Craig, the hotel’s incredible tea sommelier, who gave us a whole new appreciation for tea.

At dinner at the Verandah, Taariq gave us one of his last postcards, which we cherish — we collect them as mementos of our travels. Michael was also amazing and always going out of his way to check in on us and make sure our stay was pleasant!

We quickly understood why so many guests return year after year. Mount Nelson is elegant, historic, and full of heart. We can’t wait to return, and one day, bring our children to experience...