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Last updated: 30 October, 2022
Expert travel writer: Richard Holmes

The ‘Nellie’ is the grande dame of Cape Town’s hotels and a much-loved local landmark, offering a wide range of rooms and suites.

Located at the top of the Company Gardens, it rests in its own nine-acre estate, yet the charming colonial heritage belies its up-to-date amenities, including the chic Planet Bar, and top-notch adjoining restaurant.

The grand Afternoon Tea served in the lounge or on the terrace is a much-loved local tradition.

The botanically themed Librisa Spa harnesses the healing, hydrating and anti-ageing powers of South Africa’s indigenous plants.

Surrounding area

In the centre of ‘Gardens’, a buzzing urban neighbourhood above the CBD, characterised by quaint restored houses, narrow streets (some still cobbled), sought-after shops and boutiques, restaurants and delis.

Historic and heritage buildings abound, including museums, art galleries, an observatory, and a satellite campus of the University of Cape Town (drama and art). The hotel is located at the top end of the historic Company Gardens.

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Key facilities

Airport transfers: Free on request
Beach: None
Fitness centre
Fitness classes
Golf course
Hot tub
Kids club
Parking: On-site (free)
Pool (adults only)
Pool (indoor)
Pool (outdoor)
Pool (kids)
Spa
Tennis courts
WiFi: Free
Yoga

Food & drink

All inclusive
Kids menu
Restaurant on-site
Self catering
*
Additional charge

Room types

Apartments
Bedrooms
Cabins
Suites
Tents
Villas
Yurts

Room facilities

Air conditioning
Flat screen TV
Jacuzzi (private)
Pool (private)
Tea & coffee making facilities
WiFi

Bedding options

2+ bedrooms
3+ beds
Connecting rooms
Rollaway/sofa bed

Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Hike up the Lion’s Head

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[1.7 miles]

A stunning 5.5km (3.4m) hike up the iconic Lion’s Head, for spectacular views of the Cape’s dramatic Atlantic coastline.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free | 2-4 hours

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Overview >

Cape Town’s best food & drink

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[1.9 miles]

The most exciting foodie destination in Africa, with a diverse range of cultures and cuisines on the menu, plus two world-class wine regions.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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Hike up Table Mountain

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[2.7 miles]

Lace up your boots and tackle one of the myriad hiking trails going up to the summit of the iconic Table Mountain, a challenging but rewarding 2- to 3-hour scenic hike.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free | 2-3 hours

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Overview >

Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first

Exterior of white, colonial building at dusk
Experience

South African Museum

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[0.5 miles]

Stop by the South African Museum to see the famous Linton Panel, one of the world’s foremost examples of rock art, extracted from a shelter in the Drakensberg Mountains. Open daily.

Best for ages: 13+ | £2

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Overview >
Art work on display in the District Six museum in Cape Town.
Experience

District 6 Museum

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[1.2 miles]

Delve into the lived experience of forced removals at this moving small Museum, which chronicles the diversity of District Six and its later destruction by the Apartheid government.

Best for ages: 18+ | £2

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Overview >
Entrance to an aquarium on a sunny day
Experience

Two Oceans Aquarium

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[2.7 miles]

In the V&A Waterfront, this world-class aquarium offers three large tanks for pelagic fish alongside dozens of smaller exhibits. The hands-on ‘Touch Pool’ is always a hit with kids.

Best for ages: 4+ | £10

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Overview >
Mountains, hotels and deep blue water with waves at beach promenade
Experience

Walk or cycle the Sea Point Promenade

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[3.1 miles]

Join locals on ‘The Prom’ for a leisurely 5km seaside ramble, cycle or skate as you enjoy the city’s best sunset views. There are pavement cafes if you need a break, and play parks for kids.

Best for ages: 6+ | Free | 1-2 hours

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Overview >

Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay

Cape Town

Western Cape, South Africa

Vibrant, multicultural city with dramatic scenery, adrenaline adventure galore, Africa’s best art’s scene and golden beaches and outstanding gastronomy.

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Overview >