Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town

What the classifiers highlight

Opened in 1899 and known locally as the Nellie, this grande dame sits on nine acres of gardens below Table Mountain, its seven historic wings facing Lion's Head and Devil's Peak. MICHELIN highlights the Signature Suites, closer to private residences than hotel rooms, and the Librisa Spa set in restored Victorian houses. Forbes awards it Five Stars.