Sufiyeh Hadian checks into The Adria and discovers a serene haven laced with luxury.
Tucked away on a peaceful, tree-lined street in the heart of South Kensington, The Adria feels like you've been handed the keys to a private London townhouse. The moment I stepped through its elegant white stucco façade, I was enveloped by a sense of quiet luxury. There’s something about the atmosphere here: refined yet unpretentious, curated but comforting.
The lobby, a gleaming sanctuary of marble and soft lighting, immediately set the tone. It’s intimate and cocooning, with the elegance of a private members’ club and the warmth of a family home.
My suite was a serene retreat: a dreamy four-poster bed, antique-style furnishings, and a delicate balance between heritage and modernity.
But what truly elevated my stay at The Adria was the bathroom, a sanctuary in its own right. Clad entirely in cool Italian marble, it felt like stepping into a private spa. The separate rainfall shower was invigorating, but it was the deep bathtub that stole the show.
As I sank beneath the bubbles, a discreetly built-in TV allowed me to unwind with a film, a small but indulgent touch that made the experience feel effortlessly luxurious.
One of my favourite aspects of staying at The Adria was the incredible freedom and thoughtfulness around dining. Each morning began with an elegant à la carte breakfast, featuring perfectly poached eggs tailored exactly to my preferences – one day served in the dining room, the next as a lazy indulgence in bed, accompanied by fresh coffee and pastries.
Evenings offered an equally refined experience, with the option to order from a handpicked selection of beloved local restaurants. The difficulty was in picking which one - Dishoom’s signature black daal or Cacciari’s freshly made Italian pastas, all delivered directly to my room by the hotel’s impeccable butler service. It felt wonderfully decadent to enjoy restaurant-quality dishes without ever leaving the calm of my suite.
Beyond the dining, The Adria’s service elevated every part of my stay. The butlers were on hand for everything from arranging afternoon tea in the Drawing Room to booking theatre tickets, taxis, or even securing hard-to-get reservations in the neighbourhood. Every detail felt considered, leaving me free to simply relax and savour the experience.
The Adria has an uncanny ability to anticipate your needs without ever feeling intrusive. It’s the kind of place that rewards slowness and where you can truly exhale. Undeniably luxurious, The Adria is a hidden jewel in one of London’s most prestigious neighbourhoods. I already cannot wait to return.
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