Redefining Tea Time

The history of the Cape is inextricably tied to the history of tea. In the 1700s, tea was brought to Cape Town by ships docking in the harbour on their way back from the East, thus starting a long tradition of the enjoyment of tea. This tradition has continued at Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel for over 119 years, but the launch of a brand new tea sommelier service is altogether another, new cup of tea.

Guests are now offered the opportunity to steep themselves even deeper into the art of tea with a choice of a traditional tea ceremony, tea tasting, or food and tea pairing. These new tea services are offered in the recently renovated lounge, veranda, and terrace by two tea sommeliers who have trained with Mingwei Tsai of Nigiro Tea Merchants (authentic tea connoisseurs based in Cape Town).

Passionate about tea and the appreciation of this time-honoured tradition, Belmond Mount Nelson tea sommelier, Craig Cupido, shares his thoughts: “I have always felt that tea is about connection, if not just to yourself as the monks so often did to enhance their meditation, but also it allows you to connect with others when we have the opportunity to enjoy a cup of tea together.”

In the much loved areas of the Belmond Mount Nelson that have been opened up to views of the magnificent gardens of the hotel, Inge Moore of Muza Lab says, “In redesigning the public rooms, we were very conscious of our responsibility towards the unique heritage of the Belmond Mount Nelson, the spirit of the hotel, and its legendary gardens. We are continuing the story, not reinventing it.”

The new tea services also work to enhance the original charm of the hotel. The rose petals in the classic Belmond Mount Nelson blend of six different teas perfectly complement the shades of pink fabrics and the au boison rugs in the lounge. The large Windsor Table that was previously the central focus of the lounge has been redesigned as a collection of four interlocking traditional tables.

In the conservatory, the palmed wallpaper, parlour palms, giant strelitzia scrubs, hanging baskets, and bright orchids create the ambience of a Winter garden filled with light and plants. A large fireplace at one end anchors the room and the many mirrors and plants help to bring the garden right into the room. And, upon stepping outside onto the spruced up terrace, you are surrounded by the fragrance of magnolias, frangipani, white roses, and ash trees.

The next time you are in the mood for a spot of tea, visit the redesigned Belmond Mount Nelson and immerse yourself in the updated luxury of century-old tea tasters.

For more info, visit www.belmond.com. For restaurant reservations, email restaurantreservations.mnh@belmond.com or call +27 21 483 1948.