Arrival/Check-in: We arrived in Lugano by train direct from Zürich Airport and hadn’t even emerged from the station when we saw the smartly uniformed driver holding a brass-framed sign with our names. Our luggage was whisked into the van; and we headed downhill to the lakeshore, where the doorman welcomed us and escorted us to the desk in the wide, gleaming marble lobby. We were again welcomed, checked in immediately (although it was barely noon) and provided with maps and information about Lugano. The receptionist gave us a brief tour of the first floor, where a few other guests sat in the elegant but comfortable sitting areas overlooking the lake; it was all most genteel, without a hint of old grand hotel dowdiness. We were escorted to our room, and less than 15 minutes after stepping off the train we were standing on our balcony, soaking in one of Europe’s loveliest views. (30/30)
Guest Quarters: Our room was as splendid as the view. The king-sized bed had excellent reading lights; and there were two comfortable armchairs, a large desk and a bureau with an LCD TV. The décor was luxuriously elegant: Padded gold damask walls above limed-birch wainscoting were edged with twisted satin cord; and the floor was covered in a green, Persian-design carpet. The large closet was equipped to address two of our pet peeves, providing two luggage racks and ample free-hanging wooden and satin-padded hangers. Our balcony overlooking the lake and mountains was furnished with two large, cushioned chairs and a table (the hotel offers 24-hour room service). The large marble bathroom had a wide vanity with two sinks, a lighted make-up mirror and two sets of Etro amenities, including bath salts. An extra set was on a shelf over the long bathtub, and towels hung on heated racks. Two thick terry robes hung on the door. When we returned after dinner in the evening, each sink and the tub had a bathmat on the marble floor in front of them. White linen mats were beside each bed, and trays on each nightstand held mineral water and glasses. (30/30)
Services/Amenities: The hotel’s restaurant, La Veranda, has the high-ceilinged, white-linen grace expected in a grand hotel where heads of state stay, but the service is gracious and accommodating. Lugano is in the Italian-speaking Swiss Ticino, and our waiter, who spoke flawless English, quickly understood that we preferred to practice our rusty Italian; he spoke slowly and translated from the Italian only when we were clearly puzzled. He was not in the least concerned that this took a bit longer. The daily multicourse menu was priced quite reasonably. Breakfast was a memorable occasion, a buffet that included delectable fresh-baked pastries and breads, smoked salmon, local artisanal cheeses, hot entrées and a variety of fresh fruits and berries. It was one of the finest breakfasts we have ever been offered in a hotel. A piano bar has live music in the evening, and afternoon tea is served in the sitting room overlooking the lake. The small business center offers free Internet; all rooms have free LAN Internet access. (38/40)
The Experience: Location doesn’t get any better, and the staff is exceptional. One simple example: On the second morning of our stay, our waiter didn’t offer me coffee, instead inquiring if I would like Darjeeling tea again or a different variety. That sort of attention to little details makes it clear how the Splendide Royal earned its five stars.
Total Score: 98/100
Hotel Splendide Royal Lugano
Riva Antonio Caccia 7
6900 Lugano, Switzerland
tel 41 91 985 77 11
Read This Next
Jamaica, Tryall Club, Chef Kai Bechinger
2011 / March 2011
Mar 1, 2012
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Mar 17, 2025UN Tourism Announces Best Tourism Villages in 2024
From Caviahue-Copahue in Argentina to Tra Que Vegetable Village in Vietnam, travelers can now discover the 55 newest Best Tourism Villages of 2024 as researched by UN Tourism. These are not overcrowded, mass-tourism villages, but instead very rural destinations that have consolidated their position as key players in sustainable tourism and community development.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Marks Five Years with oneworld: Strengthening Connectivity Between USA and Africa and Expanding Global Reach
Royal Air Maroc proudly enters its fifth year as a member of the prestigious oneworld alliance. Since joining in April 2020, RAM has demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging as a dynamic airline that enhanced its digital services and expanded its network. The airline plans to grow its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, reinforcing its global presence.
March 2025
Mar 17, 2025Buenos Aires Embraces Life with Art, Music, Sports and Fine Food
The fascinating city of Buenos Aires has managed to maintain its appeal for travelers despite Argentina’s roller coaster economic history.
Daily
Mar 17, 2025Welcome the Arrival of Tulip Season in Amsterdam with Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky
Every spring, Amsterdam’s parks and fields erupt into an array of colors with the arrival of tulip season. To help travelers have the ultimate experience, Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam offers three curated experiences celebrating the iconic flower through historical insights, natural immersion and gourmet food.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Slideshow
Mar 17, 20256 Reasons to Put Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Santa Fe, New Mexico, with us.
Norwegian Debuts Late Disembarkation Option
March 2025
Mar 15, 2025Glamorous Flamingo Las Vegas Gets Pool Makeover
Daily
Mar 14, 2025Daily
Mar 13, 2025Sedona, Arizona, Hotel Promises Perfect Nature-Centric Stay
Immerse yourself in nature with a stay at L’Auberge de Sedona. This luxury property in Sedona, Arizona, invites travelers to reconnect with nature through its accommodations and outdoor experiences.
Sponsored Content
A Summer Sojourn Along Europe’s Rivers with AmaWaterways
This summer, elevate your vacation experience with award-winning AmaWaterways. Offering a seamless blend of unparalleled luxury, authentic cultural experiences and unrivaled service, AmaWaterways cruises are the perfect way to uncover the heart of Europe during the sunniest season with itineraries that glide along the continent’s most iconic rivers, including the Danube, the Rhine, the Seine and the Douro.
Daily
Mar 13, 2025Ancient Baths Brand Opens Second Location in New York City
AIRE Ancient Baths officially opened the doors of its second New York City location March 1, bringing even more wellness to New Yorkers and visitors. Following the success of its location in Tribeca, AIRE New York Upper East Side debuts, blending ancient traditions from Roman, Greek and Ottoman civilizations.
ShareThis