{"id":64488,"date":"2024-06-27T00:13:56","date_gmt":"2024-06-27T07:13:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/?p=64488"},"modified":"2025-08-18T22:08:26","modified_gmt":"2025-08-19T05:08:26","slug":"21-nettleton-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/21-nettleton-review\/","title":{"rendered":"I’VE STAYED AT HUNDREDS OF HOTELS: THIS IS THE ONE I CAN’T STOP THINKING ABOUT"},"content":{"rendered":"

What is your favorite country? As a travel writer, this is a question I am often asked. What is your favorite hotel? This is usually the next question. Both of these are very<\/em> hard to answer. <\/p>\n

I began my career as a travel writer in 2012. Before that, I traveled the world as a broke surfer chasing waves, sleeping in hostels, and sometimes sleeping in my surfboard bag on the beach. Twelve years later, I have been to over 70 countries and I’ve stayed at many of the best luxury hotels in the world. <\/p>\n

Last year, I fell in love with Cape Town<\/a>. It was my first trip to South Africa and I quickly fell for the sheer beauty of this modern, cosmopolitan city surrounded by majestic mountain ranges that jet into the sparkling sea.<\/p>\n

I’ve spent almost a month in Cape Town over the past year and had the pleasure of staying at some of the best luxury hotels<\/a> in the city and the Cape Winelands. But the hotel I can’t stop thinking about is 21 Nettleton<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"21<\/p>\n

Checking Into 21 Nettleton Boutique Hotel<\/h2>\n

For me, the most important attributes of an unforgettable luxury hotel are its views, rooms, location, and service (in that order). 21 Nettleton<\/a> surpassed my expectations for all four. <\/p>\n

Everything I love about South Africa\u2019s Western Cape was embodied in my stay at 21 Nettleton. During my recent April trip, I spent three nights here, and despite the incredible location, at the base of iconic Lion’s Head Peak, it was hard to leave the property.<\/p>\n

From the moment I arrived at 21 Nettleton<\/a>, I felt like I was home. With only six individually decorated rooms and suites, this hotel feels more like being at a wealthy friend’s vacation home. In fact, it was previously a prestigious family residence, before being converted in 2016 into the elegant boutique hotel it is today. <\/p>\n

When I checked into 21 Nettleton, I was mesmerized by the incredible views. This awestruck feeling did not dissipate throughout my entire stay here. Welcome to the hotel with the best views in Cape Town<\/em>.<\/p>\n

From every angle, this whimsical property boasts unparalleled views of The Twelve Apostles Mountain Range to the left, the sparkling Atlantic Ocean below, and Lion’s Head Peak, which sits directly behind the hotel. <\/p>\n

As I stood on the terrace, gazing out at the unbelievable view, sipping a glass of welcome champagne with the late afternoon sunshine warming my skin, I realized that this was a place that would become part of my soul –  that these views would etch there way into my dreams for years to come. <\/p>\n

\"21<\/p>\n

Location. Location. Location. <\/h2>\n

Let’s talk about why you should visit the Mother City. Cape Town is known for its stunning beaches, incredible hikes, award-winning food and wine, and the vast array of activities the city and surrounding areas provide.<\/p>\n

Cape Town is also affordable, drawing travelers from around the world who flock here in the summer months to enjoy the beautiful, warm weather and an impressive selection of world-class accommodations.<\/p>\n

Perched at the top of a hillside, looking out over Clifton Bay Beach, 21 Nettleton<\/a> has become one of Cape Town’s most exclusive boutique luxury hotels.<\/p>\n

Clifton is the most affluent area of Cape Town and 21 Nettleton sits at the top of the most sought-after street in Clifton – like a king looking out over his empire.<\/p>\n

In the small, strikingly beautiful neighborhood of Clifton, you\u2019ll find villas and luxury hotels dotting the hillside, overlooking Clifton Beach. This stunning white sand beach is divided into four parts: first, second, third, and fourth – each of which draws a slightly different crowd.<\/p>\n

This is a great area to stay in if you want to enjoy amazing views, be close to hiking trails and beautiful beaches, and still be just a few minutes from all the excellent restaurants, bars, and boutiques in town.<\/p>\n

\"Clifton<\/p>\n

21 Nettleton Rooms & Suites <\/h2>\n

Each of the six rooms and suites at 21 Nettleton<\/a> are individually appointed with bespoke art, antique furniture, and luxurious soft furnishings \u2013 styled in a modern fashion.<\/p>\n

Five of the rooms have sweeping ocean views and the sixth room boasts a close-up view of Lion’s Head Peak.<\/p>\n

I stayed in the Queen’s Suite<\/a> and enjoyed decadent ocean-view breakfasts on my private terrace and leisurely baths overlooking Clifton Bay Beach.<\/p>\n

My suite was spacious with incredible views (of course) and was well-appointed with an ocean-view soaking tub, a modern shower, a sitting area, a sizable walk-in closet, and a very<\/em> comfortable king-size bed. <\/p>\n

I also loved that the refreshment mini bar area was just outside my room, which proved convenient anytime I wanted tea, cookies, coffee, soda, water, or beer – all of which are complementary, and accessible 24\/7.<\/p>\n

If you’re looking to splurge on an incredible penthouse stay, the Presidential Suite<\/a> at 21 Nettleton is rumored to be the biggest suite in all of Cape Town. This opulent penthouse is in a class (and on a floor) of its own.<\/p>\n

This amazing suite boasts breathtaking 360-degree ocean and mountain views. There are two bathrooms, a steam room, several balconies, a separate lounge and daybed relaxation space, a dining area, and a drawing room with a fireplace. <\/p>\n

\"21<\/p>\n

Personalized Service & Experiences<\/h2>\n

When you stay at 21 Nettleton<\/a> you feel like you are home – if<\/em> your home is the most impressive mansion on the block. This “welcome home” feeling is exuded in their personalized service and uniquely tailored experiences.<\/p>\n

Would you like to have a sunset picnic for two on the expansive lawn looking out over miles of sparkling coastline? Done. Would you prefer to have a romantic candlelit dinner set up on your private terrace overlooking Clifton Beach? Done. <\/p>\n

For many travelers, no luxury stay is complete without a spa treatment – the ultimate way to relax and unwind. At 21 Nettleton guests can enjoy in-house massages, facials, reiki sessions, and other spa treatments in the comfort of their rooms, on their private terrace, or in the outdoor parlor area near the pool grotto.<\/p>\n

No matter what your wish is, the staff at 21 Nettleton<\/a> will do whatever they can to make it come true.<\/p>\n

\"21<\/p>\n

Food & Drinks at 21 Nettleton<\/h2>\n

21 Nettleton<\/a> offers farm-to-table dining crafted with sustainably sourced ingredients, embodying a home-style kitchen and an unpretentious dining philosophy. <\/p>\n

Meals here are not just meals – they are experiences. Imagine enticing sunset canapes, enchanting outdoor fine dining under the stars, patio breakfasts, and intimate picnics against the scenic backdrop of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean.<\/p>\n

You can enjoy breakfast (which is included in your stay) in the dining room, on your private terrace, or pretty much anywhere you like on the property. The same goes with dinner; whatever your dining request is, your dedicated concierge will set it up for you.<\/p>\n

For guests looking to explore the vibrant city of Cape Town, known for having some of the best restaurants in the world, your concierge will happily arrange reservations for you.<\/p>\n

\"21<\/p>\n

My Experience Staying at 21 Nettleton<\/h2>\n

During my stay at 21 Nettleton<\/a> I was writing a chapter for a book called Ignite Joy<\/a>. The book, as the title suggests, is about how to live a joy-filled life. It seems simple but for many joy can be elusive. <\/p>\n

This is one of the things that touched me most about this magical place. When you look out at those expansive, breathtaking views you can’t help but feel joy being reminded what a tiny place you occupy in the world, how small your problems are by comparison, and how lucky you are to be alive. <\/p>\n

One afternoon, I sat for hours writing in the upstairs drawing room staring out at the ocean and mountains. Normally I feel restless after an hour or two in any location; it always feels like there is somewhere else I need to be.<\/p>\n

I never felt that way at 21 Nettleton<\/a>. I felt like I was exactly where I needed to be, doing exactly what I was meant to be doing. The views held me captivated for hours while I wrote. I never wanted that feeling to end. <\/p>\n

\"21<\/p>\n

By the time I finished my chapter, the late afternoon sun was casting a beautiful orange glow across the property. I ordered a cocktail from Alvin, who was taking care of me during my stay. He’s an excellent mixologist and made me a delicious celebratory drink (okay, I might have had two or three), followed by canapes on the terrace.<\/p>\n

After indulging in my second cocktail, I told Alvin I’m jealous of you. I can’t believe you get to work here and see these amazing views every day.<\/em> He responded with a sheepish smile and said, I am pretty lucky. This is a great place to work. I never get sick of these views. <\/em><\/p>\n

The staff at 21 Nettleton<\/a> are very attentive. Alvin was wonderful, as was everyone I met. I appreciated the efficiency of being able to request anything I needed with a text to the concierge from an iPad.<\/p>\n

Every request I made was answered with a smile (or a happy emoji face) followed by Yes, of course, we can do that for you.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"21<\/p>\n

What I Love About 21 Nettleton<\/h2>\n

You’ve already heard me go on and on about the amazing views at 21 Nettleton<\/a>. And I mentioned that I love the unique, bespoke rooms here, along with the top-notch service.<\/p>\n

I also greatly appreciated the amazing art displayed throughout 21 Nettleton and I loved the accessibility to some of the best hiking trails in Cape Town.<\/p>\n

Unique Art From Around The World<\/h3>\n

My grandfather, Larry Zabel, was a famous Western artist. One of my favorite memories as a child was visiting him every summer at his ranch in Montana. His house was like an art museum, displaying not only prints of his best paintings but also amazing art pieces from around the world. <\/p>\n

He taught me that each piece of art tells a story. Every painting, sculpture, or photo captures not only that moment in time but the story of how that moment came to fruition. Art attempts to capture the magic of a specific moment. If it succeeds, it captures us in the magic of that moment.<\/em><\/p>\n

Needless to say, I loved all the unique, captivating art at 21 Nettleton<\/a>. There is an impressive assembly of hand-selected art pieces throughout the hotel that the owner, Hugo, collected during a lifetime of travels, providing glimpses into the myriad of cultures and people he\u2019s encountered.<\/p>\n

Hugo’s art collection at the hotel boasts over 150 pieces and predominantly focuses on iconic South African art, but also features unique pieces from Europe, China, India, and the Middle East. <\/p>\n

\"21<\/p>\n

Incredible Hiking<\/h3>\n

I am a surfer and a lover of all things outdoors. Hiking is one of my favorite activities. I’ve had the privilege of hiking in wonderous places around the world from Hawaii’s Napali Coast, to the deserts of Moab in Utah, to the enchanting Swiss Alps. <\/p>\n

Cape Town offers some of the best hiking in the world so I was giddy when I discovered that 21 Nettleton<\/a> sits at the base of the iconic Lion’s Head Peak. This is the most popular hike in Cape Town, known around the world for rewarding hikers with incredible views, not just from the top, but throughout the entire hike. <\/p>\n

Located within Table Mountain National Park<\/a> (a Natural World Heritage Site), Lion’s Head Peak offers several trails and routes<\/a> that are open year-round and range in difficulty level. When you stay at 21 Nettleton you have direct access to these trails. It’s a hiker’s dream come true.<\/p>\n

\"Lion's<\/p>\n

21 Nettleton Review Wrap Up<\/h2>\n

I love Cape Town for many reasons; it’s surrounded by nature and stunningly beautiful, it\u2019s hip and modern yet affordable, the beaches are incredible, the people are friendly, the food is excellent, and<\/em> there are impressive luxury accommodations. <\/p>\n

I’ve been lucky to stay at many wonderful luxury hotels in South Africa, but 21 Nettleton<\/a> is the one I can’t stop thinking about. If you’re celebrating a special occasion like an anniversary or birthday, this romantic, magical hotel is the perfect weekend getaway destination. <\/p>\n

When I reminisce on my time in South Africa\u2019s Western Cape, the images that fill my mind are of the mesmerizing views from 21 Nettleton<\/a>. I can’t wait to stay here again on my next visit to Cape Town. <\/p>\n

To see more of this stunning estate you can follow @21Nettleton<\/a> on Instagram.<\/p>\n

\"Vanessa<\/p>\n

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We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Cape Town and stay at 21 Nettleton. If you have questions or tips to share with our readers please leave these in the comments below.<\/b><\/i><\/p>\n

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