Why you need to add a stay at Hotel de Russie to your bucket list
I'm a typical taurus, all it takes to make me happy is to be immersed in luxury - and I was genuinely drowning in it during my stay at Rome's Hotel de Russie.
Located at the top of Via del Babuino, and just steps away from the beautiful Piazza del Popolo, Hotel de Russie is regarded as one of Rome's finest hotels, and since it first opened in the early 19th century has welcomed a plethora of esteemed guests including Pablo Picasso and (my fellow Taurean) George Clooney.
In fact Clooney and Brad Pitt set up home at the hotel during the filming of Ocean's 12, and it's been reported that Angelina Jolie, Leonardo DiCaprio, Naomi Campbell and Julia Roberts have stayed there, too.
After staying there for two nights, I can see why its favoured by the rich and famous.
From the moment you step inside, you feel like you have been transported to a magical, secret world. Straight ahead, at the far end of the lobby you see the hotel’s private courtyard, Piazzetta Valadier, which is overlooked by a lush secret garden.
There's more verdant greenery in the nearby Villa Borghese gardens, and from the hotel's exclusive Nijinsky Suite (a 2-bed apartment at the top of the hotel, yours to rent for a bonkers €98,000 a week), you are treated to unspoilt views of it from your own private terrace.
Furthermore, the hotel smells amazing thank to huge jars of Acqua Barocca from esteemed perfumier Essenzialmente Laura placed strategically around the lobby.
The rooms are incredible
The walk to our bedroom was joyous. The carpets in the hallways were so thick you felt yourself bouncing along with each step.
We were staying in a Superior Room which overlooked the Piazzetta Valadier. I loved how the windows had shutters, opening them each morning was very Belle in Beauty and the Beast (IYKYK).
Are you dreaming of staying at one of Rome's most legendary hotels? BOOK NOW
The bed was insanely comfortable, and the turndown service saw branded slippers and water left out for us for when we were done exploring for the night. The hotel is ideally situated for all of Rome's main historical wonders. It's just a 15-minute walk from the iconic Trevi Fountain, and St Peter's Basilica and Vatican City are a similar distance away.
The key to a great day of sightseeing is a hearty breakfast, and Hotel de Russie's lavish spread, which is enjoyed in its exclusive Le Jardin restaurant doesn't disappoint. Make sure you add a drizzle of their viscous balsamic vinegar to your buffet choices. It's made by the Rocco Forte Hotel brand's Creative Director of Food Fulvio Pierangelini, and will totally blow your mind.
Enjoy a cocktail at the famous Stravinskij Bar
Even if you're not staying at the Hotel de Russie, a visit to the legendary Stravinskij Bar is a must. The menu features eleven signature cocktails inspired by composer Igor Stravinskij's 1917 visit, but their team of expert mixologists can whip up anything you're in the mood for.
Once night falls, the setting is undeniably romantic. On a date with a mate? Sit back and enjoy some top notch people watching as some of Rome's best dressed meander in for a tipple and nibbles.
Visit the De Russie Spa
In the basement of the hotel is the De Russie Spa. It's compact, with a small, beautifully tiled wet area focused on a saltwater hydropool and loungers, and five treatment rooms.
The treatments all use Irene Forte products - she's the Wellness Director of the Rocco Forte brand, and the creator of some of the best hotel haircare products I have ever used. Yes, I'm talking about you prickly pear shampoo and almond conditioner.
Final thoughts
Unless I become incredibly wealthy or make a mid-life career change and find Hollywood stardom, staying at the Hotel de Russie is a once in a lifetime experience which I will never forget.
Go there!
Rooms at the Hotel de Russie start from £865 per night BOOK NOW
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