There are cities that feel cinematic, and then there’s Edinburgh that surpasses them all; golden stone, hidden closes, and historic stories whispering on the wind. It felt like the perfect setting for a romantic escape, and from the moment we stepped into The Edinburgh Grand, we knew we were in for an exquisite stay celebrating out ten-year wedding anniversary. Located in St Andrew’s Square in the former Royal Bank of Scotland’s headquarters, The Edinburgh Grand, a Marriott Bonvoy Luxury Collection Hotel, stands proud alongside historic architecture, designer shops and cosmopolitan eateries. The building itself has a quiet grandeur, a uniformed doorman welcomed us inside to a breathtaking central rotunda where you can look up to the skylight roof. Immediately, the receptionists made us feel at ease with a warm and friendly demeaner. Within minutes we were being shown up to our suite, a space that felt less like a hotel room and more like a beautifully designed private apartment that I didn’t want to ever leave. A SUITE THAT FEELS LIKE HOME (ONLY BETTER) Our suite – boasting city views over the square – was flooded with soft light, with high ceilings and elegant touches that nodded to Scotland’s heritage. There was something deeply romantic about the space – perhaps the quiet separation from the world below, or the way the living room invited us to slow down – we poured a drink, sank into the sofa, indulged in the celebratory dessert tray gifted by the concierge Jo and her team, and let the city wait a while. The rest of the suite had an open-plan feel with each space seamlessly blending into the other; and... the design! It was as if it had been plucked from my dream Ideal Home inspiration moodboard! Bold colour palettes softened with neutral tones, teaming marble and tiling with velvets, cozy throws, and blousy flowers – it was a visual delight. With more space than we could have imagined (or needed), the expansive bathroom and shower suite beckoned. The additional touches are what truly made this an exceptional suite; ample fluffy white towels, luxury toiletries originating in Edinburgh, bath salts with a little message about unwinding, and a GHD hairdryer, it was a serene haven. Having a dining area and fully equipped kitchen felt unexpectedly luxurious. Not because we planned to cook elaborate meals, but because it offers the freedom and comfort of being a home away from home. It’s rare for a hotel to feel Danielle Harvey finds the epitome of romance, luxury and history in Edinburgh Grand EXPECTATIONS 84
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=