Hotel Eden, located on via Ludovici 16, near Villa Borgehese and the Spanish Steps has re-opened its doors to luxury traveller two years ago after a complete renovation. Now it is the most expensive and the most luxurious hotel in Rome. If you are one of those travellers who chooses only the best, you have to try Hotel Eden on your next visit to the eternal city.
For those in the know, Hotel Eden is part of the Dorchester Collection, a small group of ultra luxurious hotels that belongs to a Brunei family.
Arrival
I arrived at the hotel at 8am after a 20-hour flight from Australia and was very pleased to find my suite waiting for me. Check-in was quick and everyone greets you by name from the minute you arrive. The hotel has only 80 rooms and suites, so it’s small enough for the service to be very personal.
For those who like to make an entrance, you can book hotel’s Rolls Royce and arrive in ultimate style. Rolls is also available for sightseeing and shopping trips during your stay.
Accommodation
When the hotel closed down for a full refurbishment, guest rooms were re-designed to become more spacious and more suites were added. With 30 suites on offer there something very special to choose from for every taste.
I stayed in an Executive suite, 405, with a separate living room, beautiful bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe and exquisite double bathroom. Hotel Eden is on a hill and forth floor is high enough to see the rooftops of the nearby palazzos and get a pretty outlook on Rome. I loved the high ceilings that made the suite feel even more spacious. Exquisite white marble in the bathrooms is almost translucent, the most beautiful quality I have ever seen – it is sourced in Pakistan and brought to Carrara to refine.
Suite lovers won’t be disappointed with a choice of stunning signature suites, all very different in their own way. Families will love Villa Medici, my favourite, with two bedrooms, very spacious living room and two bathrooms. But if you’d like to feel at home, choose Bellavista Penthouse Suite designed as a cosmopolitan Roman apartment with a private lift, or Aurora Terrace Suite with a huge deck with sun lounges, outdoor entertainment area and great views.
Facilities
Hotel Eden has a beautiful spa that offers facial treatments and massages. I had a relaxation massage, it was a great way to ease into the night after a day of sightseeing.
Head concierge Alessandro knows everything about Rome and will be pleased to help you with any shopping, dining, excursions or night-life recommendations. I used his tips on a few occasions and was very pleased.
For those who take sport seriously ask the team for Hotel Eden’s special running map, or if the weather isn’t cooperating, head to the hotel’s mini-gym.
Dining
Dining is stupendous at Hotel Eden. All restaurants are located on the 6th floor with incredible views towards the Spanish Steps and Villa Borghese.
Il Giardino opens at 7am serving one of Rome’s best breakfasts. It’s nice to start a day with silver service and delicious food served in one of the prettiest rooms in Italy. Il Giardino stays open all day and is a perfect venue for an afternoon drink, aperitivo or a casual meal any time you feel like it.
Two Michelin starred La Terrazza run by the chef Fabio Ciervo is a jewel in Hotel Eden’s crown. Featuring same spectacular views, it also is known for one of the prettiest kitchens in Rome. Chefs ought to get their inspiration from the views of the eternal city as much as from the freshest ingredients they cook with. La Terrazza is a special occasion restaurant and we recommend it to all ‘foodies’ even if you are not staying in the hotel.
The Lux Traveller Loves
I loved the high ceilings in the rooms, silky soft sheets on the beds, thick plush towels, Bottega Veneta amenities and Dyson hairdryer, walk-in wardrobes to keep the luggage out of sight and modern technology that isn’t over the top complicated.
The design of the rooms is neutral and fresh, very welcoming to an eye.
Guest relations team is incredible – I was welcomed on arrival with a lovely note, a bottle of prosecco and a cake that said ‘welcome to Rome’. But more so, on my bedside was a picture of my kids in a pretty picture frame, to make sure I don’t miss them too much while exploring Rome by myself. Such a sweet touch!
Splitting Hairs
My pre-planned spa appointment got cancelled 30 minutes before the treatment due to the therapist being sick with no replacement available. Not an ideal scenario, as I came back to the hotel specially for this.
All In All
Incredible hotel, one of the best in Rome, in an excellent location. Will suit couples and families alike. Highly recommend to luxury travellers who value discreet service, elegance and good taste. Ultimately luxurious experience in the Eternal City.
