PALAZZO MANFREDI
ROME ITALY
IN an era when aristocrats rely on visitors to maintain their stately piles, it’s not surprising that an Italian count has turned his palatial offices into a boutique hotel. How could he not, with one of the best views in Rome? Palazzo Manfredi looks right on to Rome’s Colosseum and Ludus Magnus, the ruined village where gladiators once lived and trained.
A bloody history, perhaps, but an ace location for tourists, who can stroll on to the Forum and get an atmospheric eyeful of the ruins. The building, which started life as a hunting lodge in 1500, was transformed by Count Manfredi Goffredo, in 2002. Its gourmet restaurant has the best view in town. Thus, most guests dine in at least one night.
Rooms are beautifully designed in classic style, some with faux-library wallpaper to suggest walls full of ancient books. All are trimmed with sumptuous fabrics have luxurious bathrooms furnished with unusual onyx sinks. For honeymoons and other special occasions, there are a few suites, including a new penthouse with that heart-stopping Colosseum view.
The dining room has a closing roof to keep the terrace open in winter, and observant diners will find fish and vegetable choices.
Breakfast consists of a rather minimalist buffet. Service is all you would expect from a member of Relais & Chateaux and the staff keep information on Rome’s many sites of Jewish interest.
There are even a couple of parking spaces for drivers making their way
en route to the south of the country who fancy an overnight stop in the Eternal City. Rooms from £254 double www.palazzomanfredi.com