The Mount Nelson is an iconic landmark in the fashionable Gardens district, and is one of Cape Town’s favourite luxury hotels. The splendid entrance driveway lined with magnificent palm trees sets the scene for the colonial grandeur of the hotel itself, which oozes old-fashioned maritime style and traditional high society flair. With almost 200 rooms to choose from, this resort is a vintage gem with something for everyone, capturing the romance of days gone but sympathetically updated to include all the mod cons. A peaceful retreat just a short stroll from buzzing Kloof Street and the downtown city scene.




The entrance foyer epitomises the days of genteel travel, with plenty of glamour and historic artefacts giving an insight into the origins of this wonderful old resort. Elegant bars, stylish restaurants and the beautifully laid-out piano lounge and conservatory open on to rose-lined paths and well-maintained gardens. There's a huge heated swimming pool in the main garden, and a second smaller pool in the secluded Garden Cottage grounds. Don't miss the popular afternoon High Tea – every delicious morsel!
Mount Nelson’s rooms and suites range across several floors in six wings, and offer the very best in accommodation, from deluxe rooms to the aptly named Presidential Suite. All are furnished in understated colonial style, with select modern touches and lush marble en-suite bathrooms. Some have balconies overlooking the gardens. The suites have interleading rooms and are perfect for families. The secluded Garden Cottages, tucked among the trees, offer a more romantic and private option.
Excellent on-site sporting facilities include two floodlit tennis courts, two heated swimming pools, a golf practice area and a fitness centre. Guests can enjoy spa treatments at the Librisa Spa, and younger visitors are well catered for with various children’s clubs and organised activities throughout the day. High Tea is a must-do treat. The sights and sounds of the city are a short distance from the hotel, and various excursions further afield can be easily arranged by the concierge.
Living life through rose-tinted spectacles (literally!). The high tea, sprawling gardens, sumptuous lounges and cool swimming pool and spa are the stuff of dreams.
Some of the employees have been at the hotel for over 30 years – you’re in good hands here.
Such elegant luxury comes with quite a lofty price tag…
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
Mount Nelson can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made South Africa trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended South Africa trips featuring Mount Nelson or get advice and suggestions from one of our South Africa specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Mount Nelson start from around $1.1K, or US$1.1K, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

Beach, culture, mountains, wine and bright lights, this stylish city has everything, and a bit more.