Nobildonne Relais

Nobildonne Relais

"How did it strike you on arrival?Nobildonne Relais is a thing of wonder. Make your way through the internal courtyard, past the stone sculptures and trickling fountains, and you’ll find this is no guesthouse; rather, it’s the Roman palace that you were born to have. There’s no big, flashy reception – instead, a ceiling of frescos, adorned by a crystal chandelier, and a beautiful table where Francesco, Martina and Giulia will welcome you, along with owners (and architects) Alessia and Stefano, who will pass you the keys to your new digs. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Other travelers? Sure, they’re here—in the form of that Chanel bag being whisked up the stairs, or the flash of red Louboutins striding across the courtyard—but with just four private suites, there’s little chance you’ll see them. Complete, utter privacy is part of the package here. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Each of the four suites are named after fiery noblewomen of Rome: Paolina Borghese, Donna Olimpia Pamphili, Beatrice Cenci, and Lucrezia Borgia. We love the Paolina Borghese suite, with its dusky pink and grey palette, ceiling covered in frescoes, and bespoke marble tiling. There are two rooms in this suite, making it ideal for families, or just couples who want a little more space. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?We’d spend the night in the plush double bed, complete with a memory foam topper—but come siesta time, go for one of two single beds. No matter the boudoir, all the pillows are pure goose-feather indulgence, the sheets made from Egyptian cotton so soft you'll be tempted to wear them as a robe, Roman-style. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?No detail has been scrimped on, from the Portuguese pink marble bathroom to the covetable antique mirror that, frankly, we’d like to pack in our suitcase and take back home. The welcome Prosecco and peppery aperitif mix go down a treat, and the Nespresso machine is glorious, too. But it's the free minibar that really stands out, packed with all sorts of goodies, like whiskeys, grappas, tequilas and gin. Go for it all. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The waterfall shower was so good you won't want to leave. The towels are toasty warm, and the Neroli products were decently-sized. There’s even hand and foot cream, to soothe your feet after a day exploring the city. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is strong, unwavering, and free. Just the way we like it. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The concierge here is the best kind: invisible, but magically able to book you a Vespa tour, hire a private car, or nab you that table at your favorite booked-out-for-months restaurant. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?We love the salon: a perfect pre- or post-aperitivo retreat, complete with armchairs you can sink into and a crackling fireplace, all beneath a gorgeous fresco-decorated ceiling. Bottom line: worth it, and why?This is a knockout of a hotel, worth the money for the very best in laid-back luxury." - Maresa Manara