Words by Yvonne C Mtengwa

It felt like returning home, but to a home that had been lovingly and beautifully re-imagined. My last visit to the Mount Nelson was an unforgettable family escape, with my children hugely captivated by its iconic pink façade, lush gardens, and timeless charm. With stories told by the staff at check in then, opulent spaces steeped in historical charm and the thrill of one of Africa’s most soulful cities awaiting to be discovered beyond the property’s imposing gates, this time, arriving back at the “Nellie” was to discover a new chapter, one that felt even more elevated and personal.

This visit was all about experiencing the hotel’s thoughtful evolution, beginning with a stay in one of their newly renovated signature suites. The hotel is known for its exquisite details, and my suite was a perfect blend of historic elegance and modern luxury. The design felt both fresh and familiar, a quiet sanctuary where I could truly unwind and connect with the serene surroundings.

A wide entrance hall led me to my palatial bedroom, complete with an adjacent, lavish bathroom that could almost fit yet another bedroom. Gold fittings blend perfectly with marble and ceramic surfaces, enveloping you into the very luxurious retreat one celebrates upon the start or end to an inspired day.

With a regal bed as the centerpiece of the space, I was hard pressed to imagine a scenario where I’d spend more than a few hours outside the suite; first on account of its sheer size, especially as I absorbed what lay beyond the sleeping quarters. Think plush couches, a near 6-seater dining table, embellished with the signature pink gin, macaroons, a fresh fruit platter, nougat and a personalised greeting card to welcome me back to the “Nellie”. Then there was the wrap around, black and white tiled wrap-around patio that became the gateway to sweeping views of Table Mountain’s peak nearby. A few days lay ahead of me as a guest at Belmond’s Mount Nelson Hotel, complete with an on location itinerary that included a massage in their award-winning spa, and the culinary indulgence that comes with enjoying the famed champagne high tea.

Of course, high tea!

The experience of returning to a place you love and finding it has been enhanced is truly special. This was most evident during the hotel’s legendary high tea. On my first visit, it was a moment of quiet indulgence. This time, sharing the experience with friends transformed it into a lively celebration. With the help of the hotel’s tea sommelier, we savoured an exquisite selection from over 60 loose-leaf teas, a beautiful pairing for the delicate finger sandwiches, savoury pastries, and delectable sweet treats.

High Tea at the Mount Nelson is not just a meal; it’s a celebrated institution in Cape Town, a timeless ritual that has cemented its status as the city’s most coveted experience. Its legacy stretches back to 1989, when the hotel first introduced its formal afternoon tea, a tradition that has since become synonymous with elegance and indulgence. The experience is elevated by a team of experts, including a dedicated tea sommelier who guides guests through a curated list of over 60 tea varieties, from local infusions to the hotel’s signature blend with rose petals from its very own gardens. Beyond the exquisite tiers of delicate bites, the atmosphere, with live piano music setting a serene scene in the elegant lounge, transforms the afternoon into a sensory feast. It’s this perfect blend of historical charm, expert curation, and tranquil sophistication that makes “tea at the Nellie” an unmissable part of the city’s culture and a truly magnificent treat.

The culinary journey continued with what I can only describe as “dining for the gods.” The hotel’s restaurant offerings have always been exceptional, but this time, the experience was a symphony of flavours that felt both innovative and deeply rooted in local South African ingredients. Whether it was the farm-to-table focus at Oasis or the vibrant Pan-Asian cuisine at The Red Room by Chef’s Warehouse, each meal was a testament to the property’s culinary mastery.

And onto gardens calling for rest and remote work

Amidst the indulgence, the hotel’s nine acres of tranquil gardens offered a perfect escape. While the gardens were a place for many peaceful strolls, they also became my serene open-air office during my stay. Surrounded by ancient trees and manicured lawns, with the majestic Table Mountain as my backdrop, I found a unique harmony between remote work and the restorative power of nature.

For the modern traveller, particularly the digital nomad, the art of travel is no longer just about seeing a new place—it’s about seamlessly integrating life into new surroundings. The Mount Nelson has meticulously combined the details that speak to this evolution. It’s a place for me that understands the need for wellness and slow moments, offering a sanctuary where one can be productive without sacrificing peace. Every element, from the refined rituals of its afternoon tea to its cherished heritage components and the indulgent hospitality that has defined it for over a century, is designed to cater to a discerning traveller who appreciates a deeper, more intentional way of experiencing the world.

My return to the Mount Nelson confirmed that its evolution was about being labelled as more than just a hotel; it’s an enduring legacy that continues to envelop its guests while honoring the hotel’s storied past. It remains the perfect urban oasis, but now, its recently refreshed spaces offer a deeper, more refined level of luxury that truly makes every guest feel like a star in its celebrated history.

A Storied Past: A Heritage of Hospitality

Returning to the Mount Nelson is also to step back in time and walk through a living piece of history. For well over a century, the “Grand Dame” of South African hospitality has stood as a beacon of elegance, its legacy stretching back to its founding in 1899. Commissioned by shipping magnate Sir Donald Currie, the hotel was built to rival the finest establishments in London, providing a luxurious home away from home for travellers.

Its heritage is as colourful as its iconic pink facade, a hue apparently chosen to celebrate peace after World War I. Beyond its aesthetic, the hotel has played host to an extraordinary cast of characters, from wartime figures like Winston Churchill to global icons like Nelson Mandela and the Dalai Lama. It was here that history was planned and celebrated, with its legendary afternoon tea becoming a timeless tradition that continues to draw guests from around the world. As a symbol of enduring luxury and grace, the Mount Nelson is more than a hotel—it is a monument to Africa’s rich history and an unparalleled icon of hospitality.

To book your stay or experiences at Mount Nelson Hotel, visit https://www.belmond.com/hotels/africa/south-africa/cape-town/belmond-mount-nelson-hotel/about