ADVERTORIAL • May 2018

Europe’s most luxurious hotels

Planning a special trip abroad? From the ever-hip W Hotels and the innovative St Regis brand to the legendary Ritz-Carlton portfolio and the unsurpassed Luxury Collection, there is an upscale establishment to suit every whim. Whichever you choose, one thing is certain – you won’t want to come home

Go Dutch - W Amsterdam
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Go Dutch

The W Amsterdam, in the heart of the Dutch capital, is as avant-garde as its hometown. The design-conscious hotel is split between a former 1920s bank and a telephone exchange building across the road; expect industrial interiors with retro flourishes throughout. Party people take the brass lift in the Exchange building up to the striking W rooftop bar and Mr Porter steakhouse; zen types can be found in the vaults of the Bank building, which house the holistic AWAY Spa and a heated pool.   

When in Rome - St Regis
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When in Rome

As befits a city with over 3,000 years of history, the St Regis Rome is to be found in a grand palace dating back to 1894, close to Via Veneto and the Spanish Steps. While original details include a handcrafted stucco staircase and one of Rome’s first elevators, a recent refurb has upped the décor stakes further – we love the opulent gilt and marble Caelum Bar, the place for sipping prosecco after a day unearthing the delights of the Eternal City. 

A Viennese whirl - Ritz-Carlton
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A Viennese whirl

In keeping with the Austrian capital, which seamlessly blends its imperial past with a cool contemporary vibe, The Ritz-Carlton Vienna is a pleasing mix of classic luxury and modern elegance. Hit the spa and swim in the longest indoor pool in town, or unwind at rooftop bar Atmosphere. Stay in a Club Level room and you’ll have access to the exclusive lounge, with delicious food and drinks on tap. If you can tear yourself away, the hotel is on the iconic Ringstrasse, the perfect base from which to explore.

Perfection in Paris - W Opéra
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Perfection in Paris

Paris exudes joie de vivre and W Paris Opéra is no exception. Set opposite the photogenic Palais Garnier, this 19th-century Haussmannian bank-turned-hotel is a mere stroll from superlative shops (Galeries Lafayette, the high-end jewellers of Rue de la Paix, quirky boutiques… there’s something for everyone), a buzzing arts scene, and an impressive roll call of restaurants. After pounding the Parisian pavements, kick back with one of mixologist Brice Watrin-Herpin’s cocktails in the hotel’s funky Lounge bar.

Czech it out - The Augustine
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Czech it out

How better to soak up the fairytale cityscape of Prague than by staying at The Augustine, located between Prague Castle and Charles Bridge. This stellar hotel still offers glimpses of its monastic past – the Refectory cocktail bar is where 14th-century monks once dined and the rooms have vaulted ceilings and original ornamental doors. History lesson over, luxuriate in Olga Polizzi’s stunning interiors and the hotel’s 21st-century amenities, including a top-notch spa.

Swiss style - The Ritz-Carlton Hotel De La Paix Geneva
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Swiss style

With a prime spot on Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc as a backdrop, five-star The Ritz-Carlton Hotel De La Paix Geneva isn’t short on wow factor (bag a lakefront room to appreciate fully those swoon-worthy views). With the Swiss city and Alpine hikes on your doorstep, you’ll surely work up an appetite for a meal at the hotel’s Fiskebar, which offers a Nordic fusion menu. Afterwards, make a beeline for the Philippe Pascoët Chocolate Shop, where the chocolatier produces a dazzling array of flavours.

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