Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel and a cultural landmark in Cape Town, has unveiled its newly refurbished boutique. Located next to the hotel’s iconic Afternoon Tea lounge, the space is a carefully curated celebration of African creativity, local craftsmanship and sustainable luxury.
The boutique reflects the hotel’s long-standing commitment to innovation while championing designers and makers from across the continent.
“We wanted to curate the diversity of South African talent, each in their own field,” says Celia de Carmoy, Belmond Global Retail and Merchandising Director.
“Some designers draw on ancestral crafting techniques, others on tribal patterns, while many combine modern design with tradition. This boutique pays tribute to the incredible artists and craftspeople the country has to offer and allows guests to take a piece of the destination home.”
“For us, the boutique is about discovery,” adds Quintin Smit, Retail Manager at Mount Nelson. “Every piece has a story. They are rooted in South Africa, crafted with care and intention, and selected to reflect The Nellie’s soul. We want guests to feel that connection to place the moment they step inside.”
An ode to African artistry
The boutique brings together African artistry and Mount Nelson’s refined contemporary aesthetic. The collection includes sculptural ceramics, woven baskets, lightweight kaftans and elegant homeware, all chosen for their craftsmanship and sense of place.
A highlight is the exclusive Nellie collection, a capsule of tastefully branded keepsakes, locally made souvenirs and artist collaborations inspired by the hotel’s iconic pink façade and lush gardens.
Spanning fashion, jewellery and decorative objects, these pieces capture the joyful spirit of Mount Nelson and tell a story of artistry rooted in place.
Take a piece of Mount Nelson home
From exclusive collaborations to designs that naturally echo the hotel’s charm, the boutique features work from some of South Africa’s most sought-after brands.
Fieldbar x Mount Nelson
Cape Town-born Fieldbar creates flasks, cooler boxes and towels that blend heritage craftsmanship with modern performance. For Mount Nelson, signature designs are reimagined in the hotel’s soft pink, finished with green leather accents inspired by the façade and palm-lined lawns.
The Vine
Founded by Sarah Combs and Imogen Macdonald, The Vine produces sustainable, sensory candles. The Mount Nelson range is hand-poured using coconut and soy wax, with bespoke rose and garden-inspired scents that echo the calm of the hotel’s grounds.
CHOMMIES
Handcrafted in Cape Town, Chommies celebrates colour, craft and a love of dogs. Its playful pink range of collars, leashes and accessories reflects Mount Nelson’s pet-friendly approach and suits a stylish walk beneath the palms.
OKAPI
Founded by Hanneli Rupert, Okapi is known for ethical sourcing and refined craftsmanship. The Nambi Feather Clutch, created in a blush tone inspired by Mount Nelson’s palette and crafted from ostrich leather and feathers, embodies African luxury and sustainability.
Cape Cobra Leathercraft
Since 1972, Cape Cobra Leathercraft has produced exotic leather goods in Cape Town. The Picco handbag, created in soft pastel shades reminiscent of Mount Nelson’s colours, offers a graceful nod to heritage and enduring craft.
Potterswork
For more than 30 years, Potterswork has transformed clay into collectible art. The Mount Nelson collection draws on the hotel’s pinks and lush greens, resulting in joyful ceramics that celebrate colour and form.
LULASCLAN
Founded by Bonolo Chepape, Lulasclan interprets African heritage through contemporary textiles. The boutique stocks woven linens and tableware inspired by Mount Nelson’s palette, bringing warmth and modern elegance to the table.
“At Mount Nelson, we are always looking for ways to surprise and delight our guests,” says General Manager Patrick Fisher.
“Experiences that feel authentic to Cape Town and true to our heritage. This boutique celebrates exceptional local talent and thoughtful design and offers yet another reason to visit the hotel, whether you are from near or far.”
