Set

Set
on a quiet street in the heart of Rome‘s luxury shopping district is this restored
16^th-century mansion-house hotel, once home to John
Keats and said to have been a favourite of Mark Twain and Elizabeth
Taylor. Part of the Small Luxury Hotels group, it’s all old-school glamour
from impeccably dressed doormen to glossy black-and-white marble
floors, gilt furnishings and glittering chandeliers. But this
swanky décor comes without airs and graces – friendly, relaxed
staff give it the feeling of a home from home and definitely a
place where sinking into a jewel-coloured silk sofa in one of the
ground floor drawing rooms with a glass of red would be actively
encouraged.

Rooms

There are 88 rooms ­which is surprising as the hotel feels more
intimate. Successfully toeing the line between decadence and
utility, bright airy bedrooms combine sweeping satin curtains,
insignia-stamped linen and marble bathrooms with comfortable beds,
contemporary lighting and power showers.

What’s for breakfast?

An extensive breakfast buffet has all the usual suspects such as
fresh pastries and cereal, as well as Italian extras including
mozzarella, plump red vine tomatoes and deliciously rich local
sausages. Ask for a table on the street and watch the world go by
over a pot of really good coffee.

How about lunch and dinner?

The hotel’s restaurant, Café Romano, will not disappoint those
who have come to gorge on Italian cuisine. Michelin-trained Antonio
Vitale puts a modern spin on classic dishes, using only the very
best local produce.

Is there a bar?

Yes. The aptly named Bond Bar is moodily lit, well-stocked and
trussed up in chic black lacquer. It’s the kind of place which will
make you want to order a negroni in your huskiest voice and sit
looking sultry and smoking Gauloise until the early hours (N.B.
smoking is not permitted indoors).

Amenities

A grandiose-sounding ballroom and ‘banqueting facilities’. For
those setting their sights a little less high, you’ll find
everything you’d expect from a five-star hotel, including wifi and
parking.

Things you should know

The fourth floor has been recently refurbished and rooms at the
front have proper Romeo and Juliet-style balconies. We were awoken
one morning by the sounds of Italian opera singing drifting up from
street performers below.

Within a short walk you can find…

Everything! The hotel is perfectly located for those who want to
explore Rome’s historical sights on foot, with the Spanish Steps,
the Pantheon and Piazza Navona all within walking distance, while
those who want to pick up some Italian style on their travels can
head to the boutiques of Via dei Condotti. We also recommend a trip
to traditional Due Ladroni restaurant just five minutes away;
open until 1AM, it’s the perfect place for some late-night
pasta.