"Why book? Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese is an elegant boutique abode situated in a grand 19th century palazzo on the edge of Villa Borghese. It’s regal and grand, with ornate, elegant hallways and classically designed guest rooms. Set the scene. Sofitel Roma’s design is Roman classicism meets French art de vivre. The clientele is sophisticated, well-travelled, and big fans of art and design. The backstory This may be a historic hotel, but it feels brand new, thanks to a multi-million euro makeover a few years’ back. French designer Jean-Philippe Nuel (Molitor, Paris; InterContinental, Marseille) was brought in to re-energize the property, upgrading its 78 rooms and suites, and adding a rooftop restaurant and a fitness center. The rooms Guest rooms and suites are big and bright, with iridescent ceiling art contrasting traditional wall panelings. Furniture is mostly modern, with beds in neutral hues, and mid-century style seating areas beside marble-topped coffee tables. Bright, contemporary art is placed just so, while cream curtains draw back to reveal big, expansive windows with views to Villa Borghese and St. Peter’s Basilica. Bathrooms are marble-clad and spacious, with Hermes toiletries and personalized bath robes, no less. The in-room Bose sound system was a pleasant surprise. Food and drink Settimo, the rooftop lounge and bar, serves an excellent Roman menu focussing on the region’s cucina povera (poor cuisine)—that is, tripe-heavy dishes and often-discarded cuts of meat. The neighborhood/area The hotel’s located on a quiet, unassuming street opposite Villa Borghese and Villa Medici. Handily, this also makes it within strolling distance of the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and the Sistine Chapel. The service Helpful and kind; nothing is too much to ask this lovely team. Anything else we should know about? The team’s recently launched a ‘Senses of Rome’ programme, with curated guest experiences based around the five senses: sight (a tailor-made Colosseum running tour), touch (a hat-making workshop at Rome’s oldest hat shop), scent (a flower-arranging class on the hotel’s garden-inspired rooftop), taste and sound (a private dinner at Settimo with a live Opera performance)." - Maresa Manara
