The Astoria, the Feel of History
The luxurious Hotel Astoria, in central St. Petersburg, captures the essence of Russia with an authentic experience steeped in comfort and elegance. It is the British hotelier, Rocco Forte's, five-star tribute to sophisticated travelling. It reflects the noble history of St Petersburg, with interiors scrupulously designed to recreate the grandeur synonymous with this historic city.
 The Hotel Astoria occupies an unrivalled setting on St Isaac's Square at the hub of St. Petersburg's vibrant city center. The square is dominated by St Isaac's Cathedral, while the renowned Hermitage Museum is only a short walk away. Holding a clutch of Awards, including membership in Forbes 2007 top 10 romantic hotels of the world, the Astoria exudes quiet confidence and refinement in a very British way.
What the Hotel Astoria has lost in its original Art Nouveau decor and fixtures (some aspects of which do survive) it more than compensates for in contemporary style and top-notch service. Little wonder it is beloved by visiting VIPs, the roll-call of whom you can read on the engraved plaques discretely fixed to the lift door in the lobby.
The building is a national monument, originally constructed in 1912, then renovated in 1991 and 2002. A comprehensive refurbishment has left it with rooms that marry the hotel's heritage character with a more modern design: natural earth tones are predominant, matching well with the parquet floors. The best of the suites are sprinkled with antiques and period furniture and have spectacular views onto the Mariinsky Palace and St Isaac's Cathedral. There are 213 air-conditioned rooms, including 53 suites and three apartments in the seven story structure.
One of the first of the luxury Rocco Forte Hotels group, it is said to be the favourite of the founder, Rocco Forte. The group has hotels in most of the major European cities, though each one is different. This differentiates them from the hospitality chains now circling the globe.
Authentic Russian cuisine is at its finest in the Hotel Astoria's splendid Davidov restaurant, blending the fashionable with the traditional; intimate yet friendly. Next door is the Angleterre Hotel, also managed by Rocco Forte and Astoria guests frequently dine in its renowned Borsalino Italian restaurant.
Until the end of September, the hotel offers a package for guests to explore the magnificent city of palaces and the hundred bridges. Included are three nights with breakfast, a private tour of the Hermitage Museum, and a five-hour tour of the imperial palaces at Pushkin, near St Petersburg. To welcome you, a basket of seasonal fruits, a bottle of champagne and a flower bouquet are in your room. To nourish you, a three-course dinner at Davidov Restaurant is included and, to pamper you, a classical Russian massage at the Astoria Spa.
Basic rates for the package are 58,480 roubles ($2,267) for single accommodation or 76,110 roubles ($2,950) for double accommodation.
|
