There is a reason Principe Di Savoia has upheld its historical reputation as a world class hotel.
The History Of The Hotel
Since inception, Principe Di Savoia has drawn all kinds of crowds. When it first opened in 1927, the hotel was very popular among businessmen. Its proximity to Milano Centrale railway station was a major selling point for busy tycoons moving about the city. Location aside, the property’s opulence attracted global names among the royal and celebrity circles. Among them, Edward VIII, David Rockefeller, Elizabeth Taylor, the Prince of Monaco, Madonna, George Clooney and David and Victoria Beckham.
Principe Di Savoia was acquired by the Dorchester Collection in 2003, marking the group’s first hotel in Italy. Dorchester Collection is globally known for delivering world-class hospitality and opulence on every level, making the synergy a match made in heaven.
Interior Design
The property possesses the distinct characteristics of an old world hotel in all the best ways. Designed by Milanese architect Cesare Tenca in a beautiful neoclassical style, the hotel palpably oozes grandeur. With lavishly upholstered interiors and remarkable facade, there is little wonder it has become Milan’s favoured hotel among the fashion set.
The Rooms
Throughout the hotels’ ten storeys lies 301 rooms including 44 suites. Each one, no matter the size, is elegantly furnished and entirely unique. That being said, they each possess a distinct air of five star luxury. Decadently soft sheets lie atop oversized beds, while dark wood furniture and velvet armchairs are a mainstay.
For our one night stay, we checked into the classic room. Stepping inside, our eyes were drawn to the oversized bed and antique fittings. Heavy, silk curtains were pulled back to reveal our balcony, which offered views of the famed Piazza della Repubbilica. Despite the old world feel, we were not left wanting when it came to modern comforts. This was best displayed in the large flatscreen television which came Netflix equipped. The colour palette was regal and warm, with deep burgundy reds and hues of gold. It was impossible not to feel like royalty when resting our heads here for the night.
Our large, marble bathroom contained an oversized sink and bathtub. On the basin, I found body wash and lotion which had been designed exclusively in collaboration with Wildsmith Skin. These are custom-made for each Dorchester Collection property around the world, reflecting the unique characteristics of that particular destination. A thoughtful touch which goes a long way with guests.
The Presidential Suite is worth a mention, given it has garnered global acclaim for good reason. Occupying the entirety of the tenth floor, the suite is accessed via private entrance, enticing countless VIP guests. With high, frescoed ceilings inspired by the Pantheon, maximalist furnishings (including a grand piano and 17th century chandeliers) and a private pool, the three-bedroom spectacle is a sight to behold.
The Dining
Come dinner, we had an 8pm reservation at Il Salotto, the hotel’s upscale lobby restaurant.
To begin, we ordered Burrata di bufala which broke away softly and was perfectly creamy. The beef tartare packed plenty of punch with a sprinkling of hazelnuts bringing a crunchy, nutty undertone.
We ordered two pasta mains; the linguine with mussels, clams and prawns and the maccheroncini pasta with veal ragout and pecorino cheese. Both were deliciously different, with the seafood boasting a variety of textures in a tomato-based sauce, while the veal offered plenty of rich, beefy flavour with wonderfully al dente pasta.
Our tiramisu came delicately presented and coated in chocolate. The proportions inside were perfect, with a deliciously soft biscuit sponge and plenty of cream on top. Coffee sauce dotted the plate for an extra dose of caffeine-infused goodness.
The next morning, we found ourselves wonderfully full from the previous night’s fare, but the buffet breakfast was calling. This was one of the best hotel offerings I've experienced, with everything you’d expect to find and even more. Quintessential buffet stations including fresh juice, pastries and hot foods were available, with the option to order specific dishes off the menu including waffles and boiled eggs with soldiers. I would gladly start every day here.
The Amenities
Club 10, located on the hotel’s top floor, houses both the fitness and beauty centre.
The gym is incredibly well equipped, boasting an enviable view of the city skyline — this proves to be the perfect eye candy for a session on the treadmill. Strength machines and a generously stocked free weights section are an added bonus.
The indoor hydro-pool, steam room and sauna are conveniently located next door, catering to any post-session relaxation needs. Face and body treatments are available at the spa, with a curated menu designed to rejuvenate from the outside in.
The verdict
In a city as fast-paced as Milan, Principe Di Savoia is a fixture untouched by the passage of time. Impeccable hospitality, divine architecture and delicious onsite dining merely scratch the surface of its selling points. There is no better way to experience the true charm of Milan than from a venue which has served as the backdrop for so much of its history.
Principe di Savoia
Address: Piazza della Repubblica, 17, 20124 Milano MI, Italy
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