SOUTH AFRICA – Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa, has been ranked 28th in The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2024 and secured its spot as the Best Hotel in Africa.
The second annual awards ceremony in London celebrated outstanding hotels across six continents.
The World’s 50 Best Hotels ranking is based on votes from 600 anonymous experts, including hoteliers, journalists, educators, and experienced luxury travellers. The list aims to showcase the finest luxury travel experiences globally.
Two Belmond properties received recognition: Maroma in Riviera Maya (18th place and winner of the Flor de Caña Eco Hotel 2024 award) and Mount Nelson (28th place and Best Hotel in Africa 2024).
Mount Nelson, affectionately nicknamed ‘The Nellie,’ has been part of South Africa’s hotel industry for 125 years and has captivated visitors since 1899.
Mountains and a metropolis skirt the iconic hotel and fuses its 125-year heritage with 21st-century relevance in the city’s urban heart, surrounded by the country’s leading designer boutiques and buzzing cafés.
The property also features collaborations with contemporary African artists, exceptional dining under new Executive Chef Luke Lawrence Barry, and expert-led adventures in marine biology and wine country.
“We have the ability to influence that narrative by creating unforgettable moments that epitomise slow luxury for the modern traveller,” he said.
“We are so thrilled to be recognised for the passion and dedication of our extraordinary colleagues who continue to craft magic for our guests and make people smile.”
Belmond’s legendary property, Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya, was named 18th place and won the Flor de Caña Eco Hotel of 2024, while Mount Nelson was named the best hotel in Africa.
Morocco’s La Mamounia made it number 31. They were the only two African hotels that made it on the listing.
Capella Bangkok ranks first on the list. It opened in 2020, the first year of a global pandemic that brought the hospitality industry to its knees.
In 2023, Signita was the sole South African property listed while this year it claimed 44th position; praised for its future-forward design, nature-focused approach to accommodation and its offerings that range from Big 5 adventures to traditional African cuisine served al fresco under the candelabra tree.
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