Our in-house hotel expert, Yasmin Fahr, shares her bi-monthly picks for newsworthy hotels to keep on your radar. This week, we focus on the best hotel bars with a view around the world, which also have fabulous cocktail programs to enjoy, whether you’re staying there or not.
From Roman rooftops to swim-up bars in Maui, here are the hotel bars to visit this summer.
Hotel Eden Rome, best hotel bars with a view For cocktail-loving history buffs
Fresh from of a 2017 renovation, the Hotel Eden is even more glamorous than before offering more spacious rooms with updated amenities. The restaurant, Il Giardino, is located on the top floor of the hotel with window-lined walls for views of the city so that you can dine on classic Roman pastas or freshly made pizzas topped with n’duja salami whilst enjoying views of St. Peter’s Basilica. This is fantastic anytime of year, but it’s the outdoor rooftop bar, set as an extension of the restaurant, that’s the real highlight when it’s warm. Go for aperitivo, the Italian precursor to dinner, where you are treated to a series of chef-quality snacks that play off Italian classics from 6 to 9 pm, and enjoy the craft cocktails and stellar views.
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The Carlyle, New York For lovers of the Madeline books
One of New York’s most beloved hotel bars, Bemelmans transports you back to the old world New York socialite scene with a touch of charm and history. The bar is named after the creator of the Madeline children’s book series who bartered a year and a half stay at this residential hotel for his family in exchange for the playful murals that decorate the walls of the bar. This means you can enjoy a tequila Manhattan—made with George Clooney’s tequila—or a luxury sidecar while enjoying the views of Madeline walking in Central Park. The rest of the bar is outfitted in an Art Deco theme with comfortable leather armchairs and a 24-carat gold leaf looming overhead (it’s painted on the ceiling), creating a time capsule for you to enjoy a drink or two.
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Four Seasons Maui For resort-loving adults
Are there greater things in life than a luxury swim-up bar? Maybe, but the ability to drink while cooling off in an infinity edge pool is pretty fantastic. The Four Seasons Maui does it right as this feature is reserved for the adults-only pool set up high over the rest of the property, offering views of the light blue waters beyond the beach.
Need to dunk under? Enjoy the underwater music there to greet you. Fully stocked cabanas are available for a fee or you can opt for one of the lounge chairs. The pool is stocked with chilled towels, cucumber slices and Evian mists to cool yourself down in the Hawaiian heat—we’re fairly certain you’ll manage to enjoy yourself.
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Soho House Barcelona For city people who want a mix of sun and fun
A members’ club that has quickly expanded around the world, Soho House epitomises a cool, happening scene filled with similar, like-minded people. Their newish Barcelona outpost overlooks the water and doesn’t fall short of expectations. Even if you’re not a member, being a hotel guest grants you access to the rooftop pool and bar, cinema, club and gym.
Located by the marina, the rooftop pool is the perfect place to enjoy the views of the water and sip on cocktails before venturing out into the city. The rooms vary in decor, but most come with panelled walls, dark wooden floors and pops of colour. There’s no shortage of things to do, eat and drink in Barcelona, so it’s ideal to have a rooftop haven to retreat to when you need to recharge.
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Hotel Jen Singapore For travel lovers
Singapore tends to be more of a stopover city than a destination, somewhere to spend a night or two before heading elsewhere. When you’re there next, whether on your way to Bali or Sri Lanka, stop by Hotel Jen for a rooftop cocktail.
Owned by the Shangri-La, Hotel Jen is their younger, hipper and slightly more affordable spinoff. The rectangular pool that runs the length of one of the walls is framed by clear panels so that you can easily enjoy views of the city during the day or night. Lush greenery and cushioned daybeds quickly lend themselves to a tropical vacation feeling, making it easy to relax while sipping on a Piña Kale-ada, a house drink that gives alcohol a healthy twist.
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Looking for more impressive views? Try this hotlist of bars in Hong Kong.
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