For years, the Mount Nelson Hotel, a colonial grande dame set in nine acres of formal gardens, was a reliable, if rather staid and unexciting, Cape Town stalwart. A major renovation seems to be changing that perception, however, and the Mount Nelson is once again drawing savvy travelers away from the touristy waterfront.
Orient-Express recently spent R20 million (approximately $3 million) refurbishing 32 rooms in the main building, updating their look with modern toiles and silver-leaf dressing tables while retaining their classic feel.
The hotel also recently opened the Planet Restaurant, where “shooting star” chandeliers now hang from the elegantly coffered vaults of the ceiling. Dedicated to showcasing the best fresh, local ingredients, Chef Rudi Liebenberg prepares delicacies such as rooibos-cured ostrich, Namibian red crab and slow-roasted kingklip. Planet Restaurant also features a vegan degustation menu, ensuring that vegetarians are well-cared for.
Families can take advantage of the revamped children’s programs. Younger children can swim in the supervised pool, or spend time listening to African fables told by one of the on-staff nannies. A teen lounge provides an escape for 12- to 18-year-olds, and even the remodeled organic spa offers some treatments for kids. Side-by-side with their mothers, girls can channel their inner princess with a “Sparkle Mini Pedicure,” a “Lavender and Aloe Cinderella Facial” or a “Cocoa Fairy Mask.” After this facelift, Cape Town’s grande dame has never looked better.
Andrew Harper members have access to full travel-planning services through Andrew Harper Travel.
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