The Four Seasons hotel group is unlike any other, with each property drawing upon the history of the building and the city, creating truly inimitable hotels. The Four Seasons Milano is the perfect example of this, housed in a 15th century former convent, the hotel’s immaculate restoration incorporates all the historical detailing into its chic Italian design.
Located in the “rectangle of gold”, it counts Chanel, Prada and Armani as its fashionable neighbours and this hotel emulates the haute couture style with ease and charm. Positioned on the quiet Via Gesu, the entrance is more understated than that of its foreign counterparts. Discreet and delectable, it is the perfect hotel for those wishing to shop till they drop, or for tourists keen to see the main sights.
The open-plan main lobby encourages guests and visitors to stay, sit, chat and enjoy a drink. We sipped coffee whilst admiring the restored granite pillars and the aged fragments of frescoes, beautifully reminiscent of this building’s precious past.
There are 118 guest rooms and suites arranged through three interconnecting buildings. The design is very much dependent on the original features, consequently every room is individual. Our room was refined with classic characteristics and imaginative touches displayed in the thoughtful artwork and furniture choices. It was decorated in shades of green and pale ochre, with Fortuny fabrics, Frette linen and custom-designed sycamore burl and pearwood cabinetry. We enjoyed reading in our cosy sofa seating area which is found in all rooms. From our bed, we had great views of the luscious courtyard.
Our bathroom was rather more dark and moody, Carrera marble clad with heated floors and steam resistant mirrors. I enjoyed the big bath and shower facilities, and especially noticed the quirky lighting that lined the main mirror. Toiletries were disappointingly average, however I did find out that the upper-end rooms have designer products.
All rooms have expansive walk-in wardrobes, which is particularly necessary considering most guests are here to take advantage of this shoppers’ paradise.
With the latest renovation underway, breakfast and other meals were served in the downstairs dining room, while Le Veranda is closed. Despite the big buffet on display, the chef was happy to be completely at our disposal each morning, kindly whipping up our favourite French toast recipe. It was absolutely delicious. On our second day the staff fulfilled our slightly out of the ordinary requirements, providing and setting up an impressive feast very early in the morning.
Our evening meal was a hearty Italian experience, Sergio Mei excelling in the kitchen; the menu was so tempting we couldn’t resist trying the traditional four courses. Highlights included seasonal courgette flowers with soft cheese and fresh tomato sauce, it was subtly seasoned, wonderfully fresh and light. We still fondly remember the indulgent pasta dishes – ravioli with smoked scamorza cheese, and conchiglie pasta with beef ragu and chanterelle mushrooms. It is not often I eat pasta without the need for a large helping of parmesan, however these two recipes were perfectly executed and needed no additional flavouring. The meat dishes were intensely aromatic, the thyme-roasted loin of lamb was a favourite of ours.
Desserts were served from a trolley, not dissimilar to the dim sum restaurants you find in Chinatown! We tried two of the more decorative options, they were rich and very sweet, but nothing special.
In a city where fashion, luxury and style thrive, Four Seasons Milano encapsulates the glamorous culture and lifestyle perfectly. If you manage to book a room (they are very popular), I’m sure you and your shopping bags will feel very much at home here!
More information and book here: www.fourseasons.com/milan/