When it comes to luxe locations, it doesn’t get much more fabulous than Beverly Hills in Los Angeles. We check into two of the city’s most iconic hotels.
Waldorf Astoria
There’s a reason Hollywood star Sofia Vergara was spotted at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills several weeks ago: the Art Deco-inspired hotel – situated at the iconic intersection of Wilshire and Santa Monica Boulevards – is one of the most impressive destinations in the city. It’s also one of its newest hotels, having opened in 2017, after a rumoured $US200 million, decade-long build.
Stepping into the lobby, a mammoth bronze chandelier and awe-inspiring three-storey-high ceilings captivate guests from the moment they arrive. While the hotel’s design is grand, the flawless service is what truly sets it apart. Staff here treat you like royalty.
There’s also the fact that the rooms are fit for a queen. Crafted by French interior design legend Pierre-Yves Rochon, the spacious guest rooms (even the smallest option is an impressive 58.5 square metres) feature floor-to-ceiling windows, which fill the rooms with natural light. Private balconies offer picture-perfect views of Beverly Hills.
The rooms are, of course, elegantly styled – think warm white stone and rich wood accents – and complemented by state-of-the-art technology that ensures you have every modern comfort at your fingertips.
From Bluetooth audio connections to iPads that control everything from lighting to window coverings, there’s no shortage of smart tech at this hotel – or glamour, for that matter. In the marble bathrooms, you’ll find toiletries from either Diptyque or Ferragamo, depending on your room type. And if spas are your thing, the hotel’s La Prairie Spa provides an indulgent retreat.
The Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills doesn’t just offer a chic place to stay, it’s a culinary destination in its own right. At Espelette Beverly Hills, chef Steve Benjamin crafts a Mediterranean-inspired menu that focuses on farm-to-table and locally sourced fare. And for those seeking an alfresco experience, The Rooftop is a must-visit.
By day, it’s the spot to go for a leisurely lunch by the pool. At sunset, it transforms into one of Beverly Hills’ hottest scenes, serving up craft cocktails alongside bites like crispy fish tacos.
In a city jam-packed with storied hotels, the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills is simply unforgettable. Just ask Sofia Vergara.
Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel
If you were to name the most iconic films of the ’90s, Pretty Woman would likely be high on the list. Which is probably why stepping into the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel, feels so nostalgic – it was where much of the rom-com was filmed.
The hotel first opened its doors back in 1928, and over the years it has welcomed everyone from Hollywood stars (yes, Julia Roberts and Richard Gere) to world leaders (Barack Obama, and even the Dalai Lama). At one stage, Elvis Presley called it home.
Recently renovated, the Beverly Wilshire’s 395 rooms and suites are a perfect blend of California style and Old Hollywood glamour. The David Collins Studio-led redesign features light grey palettes, marble accents, and Art Deco-inspired touches.
And for those seeking the ultimate in luxury, the hotel is home to one of the largest penthouses in Los Angeles, along with presidential suites in both wings.
The hotel houses the flagship location of Wolfgang Puck’s renowned steakhouse, Cut, where the celebrity chef himself is often seen in the kitchen or chatting with guests. For all-day dining with a view, The Blvd offers California-fresh cuisine on a sunny patio, the dream spot for people-watching on Rodeo Drive.
The hotel’s Forbes Five Star spa offers a blend of traditional and cutting-edge treatments, from technologically advanced facials to holistic body therapies using all-natural products. Then there’s the Mediterranean-style outdoor pool, modelled after film star Sophia Loren’s private Italian villa.
You could easily lie on one of the chic poolside cabanas here all day long.
There’s so much to love about this hotel, including the “Pretty Woman for a Day” experience, which allows guests to re-create iconic moments from the film. To give you an idea of what it entails: imagine getting into a Rolls-Royce and going on a personal shopping spree on Rodeo Drive, followed by a massage and romantic candlelit dinner on your private terrace.
Whether you’re living out your favourite film fantasy or just lounging by the pool, the Beverly Wilshire offers an experience that’s quintessentially LA: glamorous, star-studded and memorable.
