You might expect a friendly buongiorno upon arrival at the Sofitel Rome, but true to the group’s French roots, you’ll get a jolly bonjour, bienvenue instead.
No matter the language, it’s the warmest welcome to an elegant boutique hotel experience you could hope for, an experience that melds the French art de vivre with the Italian dolce vita you came for. Head up to Settimo on the hotel’s rooftop for spectacular views over this low-rise legend of a city, and let your Roman escape begin.
LOCATION
Tucked away on a quaint little street, happy hidden from Rome’s great many international visitors, you’ll find the newly-renovated Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese. At first glance you wouldn’t know it, but this former 19th century Palazzo is but minutes from the city’s most iconic spots – close enough that we dare you to discover them in your boldest Dolce & Gabbana sky-scrappers. Wander down to the Trevi Fountain in under 15 minutes or to the iconic Spanish Steps in just 10. New municipal rules mean you won’t be able to lounge on them, but why sit anyway when you can shop? Skip your way down the steps straight to Via Condotti for a sweet spend-a-thon. It’s Rome’s answer to New Bond Street.
ROOMS
With so much to explore in Rome, you can sure bet you’ll get your steps in. And after a long day of touristing, somewhere extra comfy to recharge makes all the difference. Happily, all the rooms and suites at the Sofitel have palazzo-worthy king-sized beds so fluffy and inviting that turning in for the night might just become an unexpected highlight of your Roman holiday. Luck out and get a room on one of the higher floors and it’ll come with a view and maybe even a panoramic private terrace with a couple of loungers too. Quite the dream spot for a morning coffee if you ask us.
Never mind the views, stylish Citizen Femmes who appreciate a swish escape will feel right at home with the Sofitel’s elegant interiors. Full of very French finishing touches – think tasty mini macarons upon check in, soft pastel colours and luxurious Hermès bathroom amenities – this is a boutique hotel almost made with us in mind. If you need reminding that you’re in Rome, you’ll have the quintessential stone pines just beyond your window, and an endearing if a little smile-provoking Michelangelo-inspired ceiling above your bed.
DINING
Claiming to offer the best views in Rome, the rooftop Settimo lounge and restaurant on the hotel’s seventh floor makes a swanky setting for dining any time of day. With its bold botanical interiors and killer panoramas over the city’s rooftops, it’s the in place to be – and if you’re partial to some mighty fine Italian fare, you’ll be especially pleased to have Settimo as your local.
Settimo terrace
You’ll of course appreciate the restaurant’s breakfast spread, but for some truly memorable feasting, lunch and dinner are the main events. We’re talking soul-warming supplì, succulent saltimbocca alla romana, and dare we say it, Rome’s most divine cacio e pepe pasta. Don’t be put off by the Italian multi-course situation; with food as delectable as Settimo’s, you’ll always find space for a dish or two more.
OUT AND ABOUT
Much more than a boutique base to rest your head in Rome, the Sofitel makes exploring the Eternal City a breeze. For one, it’s within walking distance of many of the must-sees, but should you wish to delve a little deeper into the iconic sights you’ll be visiting, the Sofitel has your back. Working with a high-end tour agency, book your escapades through the concierge and you’ll be partnered with Rome’s finest, most educated and passionate guides, the likes of PhD holders and serious niche experts all with an encyclopaedic knowledge of the tours they’re leading.
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