ESCAPE LONDON – Unbridled comfort and luxury at the Aria Hotel in Prague

At first it wasn’t obvious to me what the theme of the hotel was—it just sounded like a pretty name—but upon entering, looking at the stone logo above the door, with an ‘A’ shaped like a quaver, the penny dropped.

Walking into the hotel’s grand entrance, accompanied by beautiful saxophone music, was a treat for my ears. The musical theme runs all the way through the hotel. There is a bar shaped like a piano keyboard, a music library (more about that later), and each floor is themed according to a musical genre (opera, contemporary, jazz and classical), with every room named after a composer in that genre.

The music library, where the hotel’s concierge is based, is a novel idea. There is a carefully curated collection containing hundreds of CDs, DVDs and books for guests to enjoy. In these digital times, it’s unusual, and quite nostalgic, to see such a collection. But you’d be wrong to think that it’s all olde-worlde charm, because there’s also an iPad in every room where you can accompany your stay with any style of music you choose, or watch a film while you’re cosied up in your room.

While we’re talking rooms, you can tell that the rooms here are truly designed for comfort. What I always think is vital on a city trip is a comfortable bed and a good shower. And here, they are nothing less than sumptuous. Soft sheets, comfy pillows, fluffy gowns and towels, and an amazing rain shower, with separate bath, will make you feel as though you’re enveloped in luxury after a day treading the stunning streets of Prague. Just what you need!

The hotel is located in the Malá Strana area of the city, which is all cobbled streets and magnificent buildings, and fairly quiet, despite being only a few minutes’ walk away to all of the most remarkable sights of Prague (the Charles Bridge and the Prague Castle Area to name but two).

The roof terrace and garden, open from April-October, offers one of the most spectacular views over the rooftops of Prague. Definitely worth venturing up there!

For the foodies among you, you can’t leave Prague without a visit to the Aria Hotel’s CODA restaurant by Chef David Sasek. I had the gnocchi with truffle and oh my goodness…that is hands down the most delicious gnocchi that has ever passed my lips. The air was filled with the earthy aroma of truffle and the gnocchi itself literally melts in your mouth. The bar and breakfast service needs a mention too. The barman made me the most amazing almond-milk latte, replete with a thick layer of foam, and the breakfast, with warm options and a beautiful buffet, caters for everyone. They even have gluten-free bread! The fruit compote with Greek yoghurt tasted home-made, and the poached eggs were faultless: soft and pillowy with that gorgeous runny yolk that is the sign of a skilled hand.

There are original Picasso prints in the lounge and gorgeous comfy sofas that invite you to sit back and relax and soak in the beauty around you.

And when I was told that breakfast was until 11AM and check-out, as standard, at 1PM, that was truly music to my ears!

So all in all, if you want unbridled comfort and luxury, with a feast for your eyes, ears, taste buds and skin too (did we mention the Molton Brown amenities?)—well, OK for your whole entire self—you should definitely stay at the Aria Hotel.

Heart London 5 Star Review 

Decor 5

Bedroom 5

Service 5

Food 5

Service 5

Location 5

 

Aria Hotel Prague

AddressTržiště 9, 118 00 Malá Strana, Czechia

Phone+420 225 334 111
Marie-Helene, Heart London Magazine