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It took the owners of Rome’s Grand Hotel Via Veneto nearly 10 years to turn two historic 19th-century villas into a five-star hotel worthy of their exacting standards — and the wait appears to have paid off.
The resulting property is an elegant, Art Deco-inspired gem that’s drawing celebs and politicos with its impressive art collection (including Miros, Picassos and de Chiricos) and posh furnishings (Murano glass chandeliers, custom Hermes chairs), not to mention panoramic Via Veneto views, discreet service and gourmet eats.
Now, they can also add pampering to that list. Officially launched this spring with a bash for over 700 movers-and-shakers from the Eternal City, the 5,500-square-foot AQVA City-Spa is Rome’s largest urban retreat. It pays homage to ancient bathing traditions with facilities like a saltwater Vitality Pool (with in-water massaging chaise lounges), an aromatherapy Vichy shower, and an all-white-marble steam hammam.
As in the rest of the hotel, there are plenty of high-tech touches in this subterranean sanctuary, including chromotherapy throughout the spa; sleek, Italian-made TechnoGym fitness equipment that can be personalized for each guest using a USB “key”; and post-service relaxation beds with individual sounds systems.
Already a hit with the society set, the treatments here honor the destination by using Italian brands too: locally-made ES-Esthetic Surgery products, and decadent “gem essence” skincare by Bulgari, who also make the in-room amenities.
