The Liberty style Palazzo Dama was for centuries home to the Malaspina family who held the most glamorous parties of their time. Their influence lingers on in the palazzo which has already paid host to some fabulous parties since it opened earlier this year. We happened to stay during the opening of Palazzo Fendi and the scene was reminiscent of La Dolce Vita. Beautiful peopled wafted around the swimming pool instagramming each other, sunglasses were de rigeur in the dark mahogany panelled bar and the vast crystal chandeliers in the pretty ballroom shone light on some of the most famous faces in fashion.
Despite the nightclub in the basement and the general scene, it’s not all about parties – the bedrooms of which there are thirty are heaven. We prefer the green to the blue rooms yet they are all really, really comfortable, quiet (as long as you keep the windows shut, the roads outside are very noisy) and beautifully designed. Considered touches include Diptyque candles, beautiful Assouline books, and stunning furniture from the 40’s including brass table lamps.
Downstairs, breakfast is served in the ball room by incredibly friendly staff. The light green smoothies and fresh juices are reflective of the menu that runs throughout the day and evening which makes a welcome contrast to the deep fried cucina Romana that the city is so well known for.
The location on the Tiber, just a moment’s stroll from Piazza del Popolo is ideal for exploring the historical centre, however more intriguingly just across the bridge is the relatively undiscovered area of Prati which has the chicest shops and restaurants and still feels very Roman. Despite being the hottest hotel in town right now, the superb staff welcome all our clients with open arms whether they be children arriving on their first visit to Italy or octogenarians celebrating a wedding anniversary.
