We arrived in Berlin late on a Thursday night so it was difficult to grasp any character or vibe from the dark city. From the taxi window our surroundings seemed similar to any European capital. We were relieved but also very excited arriving at the smart Sofitel Berlin Gendarmenmarkt. I have visited several hotels from this luxury brand and am consistently impressed with the distinctive mood and personality each venue evokes. The Berlin Sofitel is smaller than most in the French Family of hotels, with only 92 rooms and 4 conference rooms, it is a luxuriously cosy place to stay, ideal for either leisure or business.

Entering our double room, I was immediately struck by the clever, modern design, a room created for maximum comfort and efficiency. The space was carefully arranged with sofa, desk, wardrobe and a massive bed placed centrally, stealing all the attention. It was the biggest softest and most heavenly bed I have ever seen. Colourful mini-macaroons, water, wine and shiny green Granny Smith apples sat tempting us, perfect for a late night, post-plane snack. The room had all the high tech additions but these were discreetly installed. A generously sized TV and BOSE speakers were probably most useful to us, though the Nespresso coffee machine was also greatly appreciated, especially once I worked out how to use it.

Hermes toiletries were to be found in the bathroom, much to my delight, along with soft warm bathrobes and snug slippers. The bathroom in was created for purpose more than pleasure and I was sad to see the absence of a bath, a luxury I relish in hotels. The shower however was powerful and energising, a huge powerful top rain type with a small moveable shower perfect for washing while keeping your hair dry. A huge window allowed natural light into the bathroom, a lovely feature… for privacy, the mirror could be slid across to conceal the window.

The muted colours and calming simple design in this hotel make it the ideal place to relax and escape from the buzz of the city. From our peaceful abode, we were blissfully unaware of the raucous late night partying outside and woke feeling refreshed and revitalised.

Breakfast at Sofitel Berlin is an exquisite display of delicacies and extravagances. Champagne sits chilled on offer for those wishing to really indulge. We picked a selection of hot and cold foods: fresh toasted granary bread with crispy bacon, scrambled egg and smoked salmon; fresh pineapple and strawberries with Greek yoghurt and homemade granola and buttery pastries from the basket given to each table; sweet freshly squeezed orange juice and rich milky coffee. Breakfast was an absolute feast, one of the best arrays I have witnessed! Once again illustrating that for the guests at Sofitel anything and everything is possible.

I always feel well rested and refreshed after a stay at Sofitel. This Gendarmenmarkt branch is more boutique than most with an understated character and tranquil ambience. Instead of flaunting opulence, this hotel has an emphasis on luxury business accommodation, ensuring  guests benefit from the facilities and luxuries equally.

More information and to book here.

http://www.sofitel.com/fr/hotel-5342-sofitel-berlin-gendarmenmarkt/index.shtml