Little did I suspect that behind those high walls and thick hedges lies one of the most impressive properties in South Africa. I say property, it’s more like a little village.
Nine acres of manicured gardens and iconic Nellie-pink and white Victorian buildings. Churchill himself passed many a pensive moment in the magnificent writing room. As I strode up the palm lined driveway from the Prince of Wales entrance I could instantly feel the sense of timelessness and history. Presidents, Captains of Industry and celebrities have been gracing these wide corridors for over 110 years. If only these walls could talk…
The Mount Nelson is not flash and modern, it is a timeless masterpiece that draws you in and slowly reveals itself. The dark wooden reception and surrounding corridors have a country club feel and lead into the exquisite lounge. Each of the elevators is uniquely decorated – one like a small library – House of Commons chic.
There are very few Capetonians who haven’t taken tea at the Mount Nelson – it’s a right of passage and the ultimate indulgence. Quaff from over twenty four different teas and savour treats from the resident baker and confectioner. Ornate, pressed ceilings with a sliver trim, white, wooden, wall panels, antique pieces and a grand piano set the scene. And perhaps I should let you in on a little secret – it’s really good value! I’m also a big fan of the Planet Bar where the contemporary design compliments the classical elegance of the lounge. Fibre optic ceiling lights mimic the milky way for a Close Encounter of the Vintage Bollinger kind.
Around every corner you’ll find a scene that evokes memories of the classics, from Thomas Hardy to D.H Lawrence. But if you’d been in the Oasis restaurant recently, the scene would have evoked memories of Starsky and Hutch. After some discussion about how to cook the perfect egg, the rapper/actor, Snoop Dogg, decided to take matters into his own hands and pretty soon was frying eggs ‘Doggystyle’ for the other guests. Now where else could you get your eggs cooked by Snoop Dogg?!
What is so unique about the Mount Nelson is that it is in the heart of the city, yet I felt like I was in some remote paradise – acres of land, rolling lawns, rose walks, a resident horticulturalist and a decadent sense of space. It’s so big that they have even designed running routes for guests. But despite the 201 rooms, the Mount Nelson feels personal, intimate and calm. It manages to be both familial and romantic – no easy task, but I can safely say that it is ideal for families with young children and honeymooners alike. Not least because there are so many places in which to have a romantic moonlit picnic or a private dinner. There’s also an adult only pool, which was one of my favourite spots – opposite the gorgeous garden cottages and surrounded by lush gardens and towering mountains. There’s a picture perfect Cape-Cod style pool house from which the dedicated poolside waiters will keep you topped up with delicious, home-made iced tea. And for parents who need a little time away from the kids, why not head off to the winelands on a tasting or take advantage of the complimentary limo service to one of Cape Town’s many attractions? The kids will be in safe hands – there’s a dedicated children’s team, a playroom for the youngsters, a posh arcade for the teens and in-betweens and a whole itinerary of activities. Playstations, Wi, Guitar God and DJ Hero – it was like a scene from the film Toy, but I resisted the urge to regress because I was late for my afternoon massage in the immaculate Librisa Spa. It’s one of the best spas I’ve been to. A huge, purpose built space that is instantly relaxing and rejuvenating. Thembisa indulged me with a fantastic back and shoulder massage – I could easily have spent a day here unwinding – steam rooms, saunas, separate mani and pedi rooms and a magnificent copper bath – this really is a place to come and be pampered. There’s also a well stocked gym if you need to release a few endorphins or, like me, work off the cheesecake, chocolate mousse and the malva pudding that I’d had for lunch. And how’s this for attention to detail – there is even a children’s spa treatment menu – perhaps a lavender and aloe Cinderella facial for your precocious little Princess?
When a place is steeped in as much history and tradition as the Mount Nelson, you might expect it to be a little stuffy, but the fact that the likes of Lewis Hamilton, Pierce Brosnan and Beyonce like to stay here should give you some indication that despite the classic character and timeless luxury, the Mount Nelson comes with all the pop-up flat screens and bling you could wish for. Plus oodles of personality. The service is slick and professional, but friendly and warm – many of the staff have been here as long as the magnificent Oak trees. They’ve been dealing with celebrity demands for decades, so nothing is too much trouble and the team really does go out of their way with the special touches.
I cannot wait to go back.
If you’d like to know more about the Mount Nelson or find out about other top South African destinations, then just contact us – we can tailor your ultimate African holiday and it costs less to book with us than if you book direct.
