Four Seasons Prague

“The “city of a hundred spires,” Prague is endowed with an incredible mix of Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture. Once the crossroads of centuries-old trade routes, it’s now the cultural and economic centre of the Czech Republic, and one of the most visited cities in Europe.”

Four Seasons Prague is a luxury Old Town hotel situated on the bank of the Vltava River less than a minute’s walk from the famous Charles Bridge. The property is an amazing feat of architecture, a mix of old and new – an amalgam of four different structures resulting in a fantastic combination of old-fashioned luxury, modern technology and design.

This one-of-a-kind building has 141 guest rooms and 20 suites, each a different shape and size due to the particular design; you may stay in a Neo-classical, Neo-Renaissance or Baroque room. You can choose your style of stay, historical housing or modern pad. Our Renaissance room was decorated in muted blues and greens, with complementing Czech-style panels and a crystal chandelier hanging over the epic bed. The subtle and gentle colour scheme encouraged relaxation. It was the perfect retreat for a frantic city-discovery weekend.

It was easy to cool down and refresh in the full marble bathroom, complete with rainforest shower and huge Jacuzzi-bath. The ornate vintage carpet was a lovely, and surprising addition to the spacious bathroom. Like most Four Seasons hotels, the Prague branch supplies vibrantly scented L’Occitane miniatures in all the bathrooms.

In the mornings we enjoyed fresh juice, strong coffee and a magnificent buffet of continental and traditional Czech delights. It was the French Toast with maple syrup and roasted apple that really thrilled our tastebuds, the ideal morning treat.

The concierge organised in-room massages for the Sunday morning so we could relax in the privacy of our own room. It was expertly arranged, two therapists arrived at the door a few minutes before 10am to set up the equipment and towels.

Each Four Seasons hotel has its own style, character and personality though many share a love of Italian food and FS Prague is no exception – the restaurant, CottoCrudo is lovely for a casual, civilised Italian meal. We enjoyed an array of superior cold meats and Parmesan cheese, fragrant flavoursome pasta dishes and scrumptious desserts. I particularly enjoyed the creamy ravioli with asparagus and burrata, tomato and rocket salad. The service was exemplary, a kind waiter assisting us whenever needed. Prosecco was a welcome addition to the meal!

Perfectly located and perfectly poised, Four Seasons Prague is the ultimate haven of luxury for visitors to this quirky city.

More information on Four Seasons Prague and book here.

www.fourseasons.com/prague

The Golden Well, Prague

For our final meal in Prague we went somewhere quite special. The Golden Well, or U Zlate Studne in Czech, is known for its great location and wonderful views of the capital. With a glass of champagne in hand overlooking the beaming city, at last I could breathe a sign of relief and gather my thoughts. The weekend, albeit wonderful, had been a mad rush to see and do it all, but up here the adrenalin abated and we were able to spend a few totally relaxed hours enjoying a classy but relaxed meal.

The menu includes traditional Czech classics alongside more familiar dishes, it all sounded delicious and I struggled with the overload of information. Eventually deciding on a refreshing cucumber salad with parmesan crisps and pinenuts, and king prawns with avocado. Subtle seasoning flavoured these fresh and vibrant ingredients… both starters felt appropriately light for the summer heat.

Mains were a little richer – steak with foie gras and truffle and chicken schnitzel with mashed potato. As expected the steak was indulgent and full of flavour, we were thankful for the accompanying grilled vegetables. It arrived presented beautifully and sitting in a pool of marvellously tasty gravy! The chicken was a smarter version of the children’s classic breaded chicken, and I felt a little silly choosing such a plain dish, even though the Golden Well chef had done it justice.

Vanilla pannacotta with strawberry compote and luxurious chocolate brownie completed our most memorable meal in Prague. What a lovely restaurant and view, it still makes me smile thinking of it now.

More information here.

www.goldenwell.cz

Mandarin Oriental Spa, Prague

There are a few really special hotels in Prague, one of which is the Mandarin Oriental, known for its fabulous spa. Discreet and stylish, this hotel doesn’t need to boast about its luxurious status to be recognised as a top accommodation spot. Located just off the west bank of the river by the famous Charles Bridge, it is a picturesque and scenic setting, blissfully quiet in comparison with the busy city centre. The serene spa offers a retreat in which to relax and indulge oneself whether a guest at the hotel or a visitor.

After changing into a soft robe, I was escorted into a treatment room. I was lucky enough to be trying out one of the favourite facials. My therapist was instantly accommodating, considering my needs at every stage of the treatment. She used the expert Gaylia Kristensen products, a famous brand highly admired by beauty specialists all over.

It was an intensely hydrating and moisturising facial. First my skin was gently cleansed, steamed and exfoliated. A rich mask was then used to encase and soothe. When the rubber mask was peeled away my skin felt refreshed and revitalised. The final “dream” cream brightened and plumped my skin to reveal a glowing complexion.

She kindly listed the essential products particularly needed to maintain a healthy glow. The lovely changing rooms and facilities at Mandarin Oriental make sure one’s enjoyment continues for every moment spent at the spa.

After a power shower, I left Mandarin Oriental feeling lighter, brighter and healthier, even an hour at this spa will revolutionise your day. The Mandarin Oriental in Prague is a must for all spa lovers.

More information here.

www.mandarinoriental.com/prague/