There’s a reason the Alvear Palace is Argentina’s most emblematic hotel and a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. Located in Buenos Aires’ most stylish neighbourhood, Recoleta, it opened in 1932 as a luxury hotel for ritzy European travellers and diplomats, sparing no expense. And although it has undergone a series of renovations and additions since then, it’s still a model of the highest expression of refinement. We're talking flawlessly-suited bellboys complete with white gloves, Louis XVI style interiors, enormous ballrooms, and high tea fit for royalty. It will come as no surprise that notable guests range from Walt Disney and Nelson Mandela to Orson Welles, Karl Lagerfeld, Sofia Loren, European kings and queens… you get the picture.
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The hotel’s architecture and décor are the epitome of Belle Époque elegance with lush carpets, a swanky marble foyer, soaring ceilings with crystal chandeliers, ornate walls and plenty of gold-leaf details in just about every direction you look. The gastronomic experiences are as legendary as the hotel itself: breakfast is a lavish buffet, while lunch and afternoon tea at the L’Organgerie atrium, are of the highest quality and service. The super chic La Bourgogne French restaurant is one of the finest on the continent and features both an impressive menu and wine list - perfect for dinner. To round things off, there’s a stylish bar on the rooftop, as well as a spa, pool and sun decks for majestic city views.
There are more than a few room choices at the hotel, from 30m2 Classic rooms to the decadent 176m2 Royal suite - and everything in between. Regardless of room size, expect sumptuous furnishings: ornate chandeliers hang delicately over Egyptian cotton bedding, picture-perfect fruit bowls sit atop the antique furnishings, and golden quilts match perfectly with the gilt-framed oil paintings. The bathrooms are spacious and all marble, luxuriously appointed with - of course - Hermès products, as well as plush robes and whirlpool tubs. And if you stay in the higher category suites, you even get a private butler to help you unpack and draw a bath. Why not?
If you're staying at the Alvear, it's all part of the experience to spend a fair bit of time inside, just taking in all the grandeur. But should you wish to head out, there’s plenty to see and do. Being in the heart of modish Recoleta, you’re a few minutes stroll from delightful parks, outdoor markets and the finest restaurants and shops. The beautiful Colon Theatre, the Bellas Artes Museum and National Library are also nearby, as is the famous Recoleta cemetery, which is an absolute must-see!
If you have an appreciation for tradition and lavishness, staying at the Alvear Palace is well worth the price, and a truly unforgettable experience. And the cherry on top is the team, who are all unbelievably friendly and efficient.
In 2016, a top floor development included the addition of some contemporary designed suites, so if you prefer a toned-down room, ask for one of these.
The Alvear Palace is unapologetically opulent in an understandably old-fashioned way. If you’re after more of a modern, sleek or minimalist style (or don’t like the idea of there being a dress code), you might want to look elsewhere.
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