'The Nellie' is regarded as the grand old dame of the city and is commonly seen as one of the best hotels in the African continent. Their outdoor heated swimming pool is surrounded by landscaped gardens that lead to water features and the tennis court. There are sundbeds by the pool and pool waiters on hand all day to bring you anything from the pool menu. The hotel has a small wellness centre, a gym, a shop, business centre and one of the best bars which is very popular with cape Townians.
All the rooms are spacious and of the high standard you would expect of a good traditional 5* hotel. The en-suite rooms all have big beds and traditional wooden furniture including writing table and comfortable chairs. Rooms have a safe, good cupboard space, satellite TV, internet connection, a choice of classic Oscar winning movies to watch and room service.
Situated on the ground floor & decorated with palm trees & dark columns, the restaurant is famed throughout Capetown as one of the best in the city. The menu is changed regularly and there is an excellent choice of local an international fine wines. Live music is often played in the restaurant.
Lobby:
In keeping with the rest of the hotel the lobby is very traditional with subtle colonial decor. There is a reception desk to the left as you enter and the concierge desk to the right - both are in dark wood and have pictures of Orient Express tours from the beginning of the 20th century. The walls are sand colour typical of traditional South African hotels.
Exterior:
The Mount Nelson is spread out over several acres of land and has an incredibly picturesque palm tree laden driveway that eads you to the hotel entrance. The main building is 3 storeys tall and as it was in 1899, the hotel is painted pink and is affectionatly known as the 'Pink Lady' in Cape Town.
