"Why book? Brilliantly reinvented by German fashion designer Patrick Hellmann, a historic mansion in posh Grunewald is a stylish, five-star escape from the city. Set the scene Set in a grand landmark mansion tucked behind tall, iron gates in West Berlin’s Grunewald district, this five-star retreat oozes luxury from the get-go. A checkerboard marble entrance hall leads to a vast lobby lounge, with soaring coffered ceilings of intricately carved wood and ornate chandeliers. Gilded, Italian Renaissance-inspired rooms filled with antiques, an elegant, glass-walled conservatory, and beautifully landscaped gardens dotted with statuary all add to the palatial feel. Complementing the surroundings are sophisticated, well-heeled couples—especially affluent Germans seeking a peaceful getaway. The backstory Built in 1914 in the style of a French palace, this magnificent villa has served as a private residence, embassy, naval officer’s club, and later, a luxury hotel, hosting such notable guests as Romy Schneider and Paul McCartney. In 2014, Berlin fashion designer Patrick Hellmann acquired the property and began renovations, restoring its glorious historical details while bringing much of the design—previously done by Karl Lagerfeld in the 1990s—firmly into the 21st century. The rooms Each of the hotel’s 43 rooms and 10 suites has a unique layout and design scheme. Those in the Classic category retain Karl Lagerfeld’s decor—lots of chintz and toile—while those envisioned by Patrick Hellmann have a crisp, contemporary flair. In the latter you’ll find rich velvet and silk textiles, monogrammed pillows from the designer’s own fabric collection, and custom furnishings like plush carpeting and original artwork. Two suites feature particularly impressive details: The dual-bedroom Kaiser Suite boasts an antique library with original frescoes, and the first-floor Karl Lagerfeld Suite has lovely Art Deco touches and a stone balcony overlooking the gardens. Food and drink The PHC Bar is a dark, sexy space, outfitted with seating upholstered in traditional men’s fabrics (pinstripes and tweeds) and dotted with artsy black-and-white photos. Try a classic cocktail or the signature PHC Manhattan, made with orange-infused Bulleit Bourbon, white vermouth, and vanilla bitters. There’s also a stunning Champagne Lounge, with a huge selection of bubbly—plus a €99 deal for unlimited pours on Wednesdays from 7 to 9 pm. The spa The basement-level spa features a large heated indoor pool, Jacuzzi, and Finnish sauna, as well as treatment rooms. The neighborhood/area Leafy and peaceful, Grunewald is a residential area of fancy homes and villas and named for neighboring Grunewald Forest, an enormous green space of trees, lakes, and walking paths. Which means that little is nearby in the way of food or entertainment, so you’ll need a car (or a shuttle from the hotel) to get around. The service Professional and attentive, the staff can arrange for complimentary transfers to and from downtown Berlin, a personal trainer in the fitness center, or a shopping excursion to the Patrick Hellmann boutique just off of posh Kurfürstendamm. They can also book off-site activities, including horseback riding, golfing, tennis, and bike tours. Accessibility The property is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible. Anything left to mention? If you’re using public transportation from the city, the Grunewald S-Bahn station is the closest (about a half-hour from Potsdamer Platz); the hotel can arrange for guest pick-up and drop-off service free of charge." - Jennifer Ceaser
