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The Nellie ~ Historic Mount Nelson in Cape Town
My all-time favourite, and the world’s number one hotel for a couple of years running:~ The Nellie.
Situated under the shelter of Table Mountain, it is perfectly situated for the Cape Town visitor.
The first thing you notice is its colour. It’s pink! Don’t let that put you off though, this is THE most superb 5 star hotel you could possibly stay in.
The one crucial thing that separates this hotel from other 5 star hotels in Cape Town (and there are quite a few!), is that this one is old-world, coupled with modern convenience and facilities. Other hotels have all the mod cons and ooze sophistication and have world class standards, don’t get me wrong, but The Nellie has the added comfort and warmth. Personal attention.
Even as a mere supplier, I always enjoyed going there, I would be offered tea (free 5 star tea!!!!) in the front room (BEAUUUTIFUL sunny breakfast room!), in the same area as the guests, to go through the latest proposals etc. It has such a warm and welcoming feel, and not only because you are spending your money there!
Many people have their weddings here, and they host a variety of corporate and private functions too. As a supplier of gifting to this hotel I supplied gifts for their rooms, Christmas crackers plus invitations and menus for occasions.
The impressive colonial architecture with grand ballrooms and receptions lends itself well in the way of entertainment. The one occasion that I am most proud of is the when Nelson Mandela had his 79th birthday there in 1998 and I was asked by the then general manager of the Nellie to do his birthday invites for him, as he was having a big party at the hotel.
I did the outer leaves of paper in a thick and rustic handmade paper I specifically made for Mandela, with his name just visible in the pulp here and there. Took some experimenting, but the end result was fabulous! The inside was left blank for security reasons, Mandela's PA was putting the info and guests name etc inside.
So yes, all my memories of this hotel are ones of fondness and warmth. Highly recommended! :)
Mount Nelson Hotel
The Mount Nelson
Lunch at the Mount Nelson
