Last December saw the Italian debut for W Hotels. From the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, W Rome is part of an exciting expansion of stylish properties, celebrating each guest’s desire to uncover the destination through a lens that is distinctly ‘W’. Serving up dynamic and invigorative experiences to all guests that step through their doors, the W brand is quickly spreading its wings across Europe, notably also marking its debut in Portugal’s Algarve this summer.
Set across two adjacent 19th century palazzos, W Rome is a luxurious, 162-room hotel situated in the city that ‘forever lives on’ as the Romans believed it would. Contemporary in its nature whilst entwined with local touchpoints that embody the heritage of the city, W Rome has fun, thoughtful design rooted in the history and culture of the city. A juxtaposed blend of past and present, the city’s traditional architecture is set against a glamorous demeanour that is quintessentially ‘W’.
Hotel
This, for example, includes an eclectic mix of colourful leather furniture placed against stone walls which echo the building’s age, whilst reflective surfaces add sparkle and excitement to the new city hotel. With each corner of the property revealing surprises along the way, discover a hidden bathroom door leading to a secret garden inspired by one of Borromini’s churches. Here features traditional Italian stone complete with kissing benches, lush foliage, topiary and water fountains.
W Rome’s heart is its W Lounge. Featuring a skylight and patterned glass window to allow the sunshine to saturate the space, my first impression of the hotel is that it’s a place where past meets present, from the sculptures and art that surround the modern seating areas, to the beautiful, hand-painted mural that wraps the walls as you check-in. Painted by Italian artist Costanza Alvarez de Castro, the mural is inspired by Roman gardens and tells the story of the captivating destination.
Meanwhile on its rooftop is the colourful terrace. Home to the ‘WET Deck’ with a cooling plunge pool that is surrounded by sun loungers and an open-air bar, it’s a welcome space of tranquillity in the centre of the city, with widespread views miles over the tops of the ancient buildings that have stood still for centuries.
Rooms
The romantic hotel offers an urban apartment feel among the rooms, many of which include private balconies and terraces and some iconic city views. On one side of W Rome, this notably includes the stunning local landmark of Istituto Svizzero (the Swiss Institute) considered a jewel in early century Roman architecture which our room gracefully overlooked.
Each room is centred around the brand’s signature W Bed, which each time I visit a new W Hotel, I cannot wait to dive into. Whilst red wine velvet curtains and wooden herringbone patterned floors offer a classic touch of sophistication with sleek, marble bathrooms.
The overarching design concept of the hotel is fuelled by Rome’s past, present and future. From bold colour blocks that line the interior hallways and graphic prints that feed into the buildings’ unmistakable new W persona. This includes the WOW Presidential Suite with its large terrace. Here, a private outdoor and indoor space, which is uncommon for the bustling city, can be enjoyed. This includes a décor of historical Roman architectural elements fused with in-room technology and beautiful custom-designed furniture.
Food and drink
W Rome sparks its inspiration from Sicily at its signature Giano Restaurant. Woven with Roman culture (just like the hotel itself) Michelin-starred chef Ciccio Sultano has created a contemporary and imaginative interpretation, withheld by tradition. With dishes built upon Sicilian cooking methods, there is a playful use of authentic Italian flavours and indigenous ingredients from Sicily. Dining here will introduce you to an interesting Italian fusion of Sicilian cuisine with Roman culture. This includes all-day Italian-style dining with sharing plates and fresh homemade pasta.
In the centre of the building is W Rome’s open-air courtyard, a serene space where we enjoyed breakfast each morning, sipping Italian coffee or a pre-dinner ‘aperitivos’ which warmed our tastebuds in true Italian style with Sicilian street-food specialities. Meanwhile, renowned pastry chef Fabrizio Fiorani is the master behind Zucchero x Fabrizio Fiorani – a place to get your hands on anything sweet. This includes freshly made pastries and homemade gelato which is expertly curated. Those dining at Giano are also handed coins for the sweet machine which is full of handmade chocolates – another surprise the hotel offers guests.
In a nutshell
The global W Hotel group injects its international energy into the ancient streets of Rome, bringing the ancient city into the present day. With the W Lounge at its centre that comes alive at night with live DJ sets and exceptional mixology; here is a fun new hotel that allows modern-day travellers to enjoy Rome in style and comfort.
Factbox
Address: 26/36, Via Liguria, 00187 Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome, Italy
Phone: +39 06 894121
Website: w-rome.com
