Boscolo Palace, Rome

Everyone has to visit Rome at least once in their lifetime, but it’s difficult to know where to stay when there is so much to see all over the city. The Boscolo brand has prestigious hotels in many Italian cities; each has a different character and feel but they all hope to evoke an elegant, authentic Italian style.

Of the three Boscolo hotels in Rome, we stayed at the Palace, which is well located for the city’s attractions and not far from Rome Ciampino airport. The most memorable aspect of our stay here was the efficient and friendly service throughout the weekend. We were picked up promptly from the airport, whisked to our hotel, given an in-depth description of the best places to see and visit, and treated to the most wonderful Thai spa experience on our final morning. I cannot fault the staff and I’m sure the excellence of the service results in a high return rate of guests.

The rooms and suites, of which there are many, are grand but a little dated and feel in need of a renovation. We were very comfortable in our huge bed and should guests need it, there is plenty of space to while away an afternoon. The grey, pink and off-white colour scheme feels a bit like a 1960s pad and not quite to my taste but definitely different. The bathroom is filled with numbered multi-coloured toiletries (1-21) displayed like intriguing test tubes – it is tempting to try them all out.

Breakfast and dinner is served downstairs in the main restaurant, a selection of Italian and continental options. When we visited, off-season, we were the only people dining for supper, the casual lounge felt a bit sad and quiet but perhaps there is most atmosphere during the summer months.

We had the spa to ourselves as well, and the team there made an enormous effort to give us a lovely and relaxing experience. After our revitalising treatments, we enjoyed a refreshing fruit tea by the jacuzzi. Sat in our soft dressing gowns, sightseeing suddenly seemed less important.

The 5 star Palace has a great variety of facilities on offer and the large luxurious rooms will provide an ideal base for your weekend away in Rome.

More information and book here: palace-roma.boscolohotels.com

Many thanks to the Rome Tourist Board for their help with this trip:

www.turismoroma.it and Tourist information service: Roma 0039 060608.