We check into a Deluxe Suite at Six Senses Rome, which has opened in the heart of the Eternal City
Why stay here
With its effortlessly chic swagger, cutting-edge spa, panoramic rooftop bar and central location, walking distance to the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Colosseum, the new Six Senses Rome is the essence of la dolce vita.
Design and sustainability
Set back from bustling Via del Corso, one of Rome’s main arteries, the former 15th century Palazzo Salviati Cesi Mellini has history in its bones and a fun interior design from Spanish architect Patricia Urquiola. Classicism and modernity collide in the lobby, its curved bar and restaurant, where greenery, leather lounges and sculpture fragments of large feet, cherub heads and hands are sprinkled throughout. The UNESCO-listed façade, adjacent piazza and Baroque church San Marcello al Corso were carefully restored, while the original 15th century Carrara marble staircase was preserved.
This is the first urban hotel by Six Senses and part of a push to bring its trademark sanctuaries to big cities. Like all its hotels, sustainability is stitched into the fabric of every stay. The hotel uses 100 per cent green power and is in line for LEED Gold certification for its innovative energy and water efficiency. Guests can share ideas about a sustainable future in the hotel’s Earth Lab or take part in daily activities that tap into local culture and community.
Like all 96 rooms and suites, my one-bedroom Deluxe Suite is a cocoon from the noise of the streets and foot traffic. Travertine stone, wool and natural textiles unite with a palette of soft grey, cream, bone and splashes of tan to create a restful retreat that is both spartan yet warm, sophisticated and relaxing. There is a lovely elliptical bath, retractable block-out blinds and an eclectic collection of design and self-help books.
Dining
Bivium Restaurant-Café-Bar takes inspiration from Rome’s squares, with a piazza-style restaurant, open kitchen and deli food stands including a gelato cart and juice bar. Sicilian chef Nadia Frisina is behind the farm-to-table menu, which champions plant-based dishes and seasonal produce. The wine list is equally inspired, highlighting a grape of the month and regional winemakers. The breakfast buffet is a mix of fresh fruit, antipasto and pastries, including a decadent tiramisu croissant. There are also à la carte options. NOTOS rooftop bar is fast becoming the place for well-heeled locals in search of aperitivo. Fragrant with aromatic herbs and colourful blooms, the garden oasis offers classic Roman rooftop views, as well as wine tastings, cocktails and inspired small bites.
Wellness
Ancient Romans knew a thing or two about bathing, a tradition Six Senses taps into with its modern-day Roman baths (cold, tepid and hot). Alongside this are the hotel’s signature spa treatments, meditation, sound therapy, a hammam, top-notch gym and state-of-the-art biohacking, the perfect remedy for a day pounding Rome’s stony pavements.
The special touches
An antipasto platter greets guests in their suite, while insider experiences include a painting class inspired by Caravaggio and a master class in aperitivo. Don’t miss the daily activities listed in the lobby, many free, which can include rooftop yoga and lessons in making beeswax wraps. A guest concierge is on hand to curate day trips.
Want to upgrade?
The Mellini Suite offers plenty of wriggle room, with two king-size bedrooms, a library, kitchenette with full pantry and alfresco terrace overlooking San Marcello al Corso church.