in the vibrant heart of Cape Town
The Mount has an unparalleled aura of mystique and romance, a superb place to base yourself whilst in Cape Town.
Location
Set at the foot of Table Mountain, Mount Nelson — or “The Nellie” as it’s affectionately known — is your peaceful hideaway in the heart of Cape Town. You’ll be perfectly placed to explore the city’s most iconic sights, from the V&A Waterfront to the colourful Bo-Kaap, yet the hotel’s lush gardens and mountain views make it feel worlds away from the buzz.
Rooms
Each of the rooms and suites has its own character — some classic and romantic, others more contemporary — but all offer the kind of comfort you’ll want to sink into after a day’s exploring. You’ll love the high ceilings, marble bathrooms, and those little luxuries that make all the difference. Some rooms open onto private balconies with garden or mountain views — ideal for a quiet morning coffee.
Amenities
Guests who decide to spend the day at the hotel will have their pick of two heated pools, a fully equipped gym, and a beautiful spa with treatments inspired by local botanicals. There are tennis courts, afternoon teas on the terrace, and plenty of space to unwind.
Dining at Mount Nelson is a highlight in itself — think bold Pan-Asian flavours at The Red Room, Mediterranean-style plates enjoyed alfresco in the garden, and the time-honoured tradition of Afternoon Tea served with all the elegance you’d expect. For something more intimate, the Chef’s Table celebrates local, seasonal produce in a quietly refined setting.
What we love is how family-friendly it is too — the kids’ club is thoughtful, fun, and full of imagination.
Activities
From the hotel, it's easy to explore Cape Town at your own pace — whether you're heading up Table Mountain, wandering the V&A Waterfront, or discovering the Winelands. You can join a guided Fynbos walk, take a spin in a vintage car, or simply stroll through the hotel’s historic gardens. There’s also tennis with a resident pro and the hotel staff is always ready to help you with booking curated experiences that offer a deeper connection to the city’s culture, art, and nature.
Sustainability
What we love is the hotel’s quiet but genuine approach to sustainability. From water-wise gardens and a farm for organic composting to on-site beehives supporting Cape Town’s endangered honeybees, Mount Nelson shows how luxury and environmental care can go hand in hand. There’s also a strong focus on supporting local communities through thoughtful partnerships and initiatives.
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Best places to stay in Cape Town
Cape Town Trip Inspiration
When to go to South Africa
Find out the best time to visit South Africa with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is the perfect time to visit the Cape — hot, dry and buzzing. Lounge on beaches or explore the Winelands and Garden Route in peak summer sun. Inland, it’s the wet season in Kruger, with bursts of heavy rain and vivid green landscapes. It's also the end of the birthing season, attracting predators and creating dramatic wildlife scenes.
February
The hottest month in Cape Town, February is ideal for alfresco lunches in the Winelands or scenic drives along the Garden Route. There are fewer tourists, perfect weather and excellent vineyard experiences. Safari regions remain hot, humid and wet, so it’s better to stick to the coast and cultural highlights at this time of year.
March
March brings settled, sunny days to Cape Town, the Winelands and Garden Route — ideal for laid-back trips and less crowded experiences. In Kruger, the lush landscape and newborn wildlife create brilliant photographic opportunities, with clear skies and dramatic colours. Rainfall eases across the country, making it a great time to combine regions.
April
April’s mild weather and lower visitor numbers make it one of the best months to explore. Cape Town is perfect for hiking Table Mountain or visiting Kirstenbosch Gardens. The Garden Route and Drakensberg are quiet and cool. In Kruger, rutting season begins — male antelope at their most impressive, sparking fierce, fascinating fights.
May
With summer crowds gone and crisp, dry days setting in, May is a peaceful time to travel. Safari viewing improves as vegetation thins in Kruger, and game becomes easier to spot. The Cape has a mix of sunny and rainy days, and the Winelands feel calm and welcoming after the peak season rush.
June
The start of winter brings cool, dry safari conditions — ideal for spotting wildlife clustered around shrinking water sources. Cape Town gets wetter, though days can still be bright. Whale watching begins along the Western Cape, while the Drakensberg is a dream for hikers enjoying fresh air and peaceful trails. Comrades Marathon adds sporting buzz to KwaZulu Natal.
July
July is peak whale watching around Hermanus and Plettenberg Bay, with whales close to shore to calve. It’s also the best time for safaris — cool, dry and clear. Kruger’s wildlife gathers at waterholes, and sightings are exceptional. Cape Town remains cool and drizzly, but it’s a quiet, rewarding time for active or cultural trips.
August
Spring starts to show as wildflowers carpet the West Coast and Namaqualand in vibrant colour — a true spectacle. Game viewing is still strong in Kruger, and whales continue to visit the Cape’s coastline. Temperatures begin rising after winter’s chill, and clear skies return, making this a great time to combine coast, culture and safari.
September
September is superb for combining experiences — wildlife viewing is excellent in Kruger and Madikwe, while whales are frequently seen along the southern coast. Spring flowers are still blooming, and warmer temperatures make outdoor exploration more inviting. In the Drakensberg, snow-capped peaks linger as trails begin to warm up for hiking.
October
October is one of the best all-round months to visit. Cape Town and the Winelands are warming up, with long sunny days and few crowds. Safari conditions remain strong in Kruger and KwaZulu Natal, and the beaches are heating up. Whether you want wildlife, wine or coastline, it’s hard to go wrong this month.
November
Cape Town soaks up the early summer sun, with calm days ideal for exploring. It’s the last chance to see southern right whales before they head off. Inland, the rains return to Kruger and KwaZulu Natal, but afternoon storms are spectacular and short-lived. Visitor numbers increase as the festive season nears — book early.
December
December buzzes with summer energy. The first two weeks are a sweet spot — great weather and fewer crowds. Later in the month, it’s peak holiday season across the country. In Kruger, landscapes burst into colour with flame lilies and baby animals. Book early for Christmas trips — this is one of the most popular times to visit.
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