In August, we had the pleasure of visiting Seoul, where we had a luxurious two-night stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth splurging on, let us take you through our experience.
Situated in Seoul’s Jongno-gu district, the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is where luxury meets cultural immersion. Located just steps away from iconic landmarks like Gyeongbok Palace, Gwanghwamun Square, and Bukchon Hanok Village, it’s the perfect base for exploring both the historical and contemporary sides of the city. Moreover, its design draws inspiration from traditional Korean architecture, with elegant curves that echo Hanok roofs, creating a stunning visual harmony both inside and out.
First Impressions: Did The Four Seasons Hotel Seoul Wow Us?
From the moment we arrived, we were impressed by the warm and efficient service. The check-in process was swift, and we were pleasantly surprised to find a gift set from Talitha Koum, a renowned local vegan beauty brand, waiting for us in our room. This thoughtful gesture really set the tone for the rest of our stay. Our room, designed with the elegance of a Joseon-era scholar’s study in mind, exuded sophistication. The minimalist design, paired with traditional Korean elements like white porcelain and blue-and-white ceramics, created an ambiance of tranquil luxury. The highlight, however, was the floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views of the city. The marble-clad bathroom, complete with a soaking tub and rainfall shower, and stocked with high-quality Diptyque bath products, added the perfect touch of luxury. After soaking in the views and settling in, we were ready to dive into the culinary delights the hotel had to offer.
What We Really Think About Four Seasons Seoul’s Culinary Offerings
Breakfast at The Market Kitchen was nothing short of a feast. Taking up nearly an entire floor of the hotel, this sprawling venue offers an impressive variety of dishes. From Western breakfast staples like fluffy scrambled eggs and freshly baked pastries to traditional Korean dishes, the options were endless. We couldn’t resist the freshly made noodles and dumplings, a hearty way to start the day. And let’s not forget the showstopper – the 24K gold chocolate fountain, which had us happily dipping churros in pure luxury. For dinner, we opted for Boccalino, the hotel’s signature Italian restaurant, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was inviting yet chic, with an open kitchen adding a lively touch to the dining experience. We savoured every bite of the squid ink pasta and the perfectly cooked steak, and found the portions and prices to be just right for the quality and service. Later, we ventured into Charles H., the hotel’s hidden speakeasy bar. Accessed through a secret passage, this glamorous bar oozes old-world charm with its low lighting and opulent decor. The bartender recommended a signature cocktail inspired by Charles H. Baker’s travels, and it was a revelation – complex, layered, and utterly delicious.
Unwind Like Royalty: Inside Seoul’s Most Opulent Sauna
After indulging in the hotel’s culinary offerings, we explored the wellness amenities, which are some of the best we’ve encountered. The Korean sauna adds a luxurious twist to the traditional jjimjilbang experience, with 18-carat gold-tiled baths and a range of saunas. The plush relaxation areas were the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the city. The gym offers state-of-the-art equipment and panoramic views of Seoul, making workouts feel less like a chore and more like a treat. And if you’re a golf enthusiast, the hotel’s Golf Experience room, complete with 3D simulators, is a must-try.
Is This The Best Hotel In Seoul?
In summary, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is more than just a place to stay – it’s a destination in itself. From the luxurious rooms to the exquisite dining and world-class wellness facilities, every aspect of our stay was exceptional. Whether you’re in Seoul for business or leisure, this hotel is the perfect place to experience the best the city has to offer.
Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, 97 Saemunan-ro, Dangju-dong, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea, +82 2 6388 5000, www.fourseasons.com
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