World Design Capital Experience at Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

Embracing the World Design Capital themes of “beautiful spaces, beautiful things” and “bridging the divide,” the area between Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel's acclaimed Planet Restaurant and Planet Bar has been transformed into a pop-up art space called “Nkanyezi Gallery” displaying the work of talented township artists. Organized in partnership with Maboneng Township Art Experience, an official World Design Capital project that turns township homes into galleries exhibiting the work of local artists, the gallery will run until the end of the year and all works are available to purchase.

Xavier Lablaude, General Manager of Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, stated, “By establishing the Nkanyezi Gallery and opening our city-based ‘home' to some of our townships' most talented artists, we can help to exhibit their art to local and international guests who may otherwise never have the opportunity to see their work.”

Guests can also explore Cape Town's design highlights on a guided electric bicycle tour from the hotel. Launched with Cycology, a South African brand committed to the philosophy of ‘life on two wheels.' Bespoke routes include “Beauty by Design,” a rolling shopping trip that explores the center of the city and its myriad of independently owned boutiques, trendy coffee spots and design treasures.

Local boutique on the bike route may include, KIN on Kloof, a local shop offering South African jewelery, bags, décor and ceramics; Haas, a quirky boutique selling one-of-a-kind accessories and artworks; and Skinny Laminx, where visitors can peruse textile and design products by illustrator Heather Moore.

Riding A2B Metro electric bicycles for an extra boost in hilly Cape Town, guests can also explore beautiful coastal paths on the ‘Raw Beauty' tour and uncover the city's rich heritage and Iziko museums on the ‘Beauty of Age' route. Tailor-made tours are available on request for groups of five people or more and bicycles and maps are also available for independent hire, allowing guests to explore at their own pace.

Electric bicycle tours are available at 9:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. every Tuesday through Sunday. Each tour lasts one hour and is priced from $90 USD per person. Independent bicycle hire is priced at $15 USD for 30 minutes, $34 USD for half a day or $72 for a full day. To book, call 1.800.237.1236 or email concierge@mountnelson.co.za.

Superior Rooms at Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel start from $370 USD per night, including breakfast and taxes. Guests booking now can also take advantage of the late availability ‘Discover Belmond' offer and enjoy 15% off the Best Available Rate*, with Superior Rooms starting from $650 USD for two nights including breakfast and taxes. For further information or to make a booking, call the Belmond UK Reservations team on 1.800.237.1236 or visit BELMOND.COM.

*Rate available until July 31, 2014 and valid for stays of two nights or more. Based on availability; blackout dates may apply.

Visit website: https://www.mountnelson.co.za