Grande Dame hotels have a grandeur and aura like no other type of accommodation. They hold historic admiration, reminiscent of a bygone era. Each property is unique in their own nature, proudly boasting stately architecture, charm, warmth and awe-inspiring beauty. Directory of Hotels proudly publishes Great Eight Hotels: Iconic Grande Dames.
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The Greenbrier is an award-winning resort and a National Historic Landmark, representing 228 years of history with its classic architecture, exquisite interior design, carefully sculpted landscape, impeccable service and outstanding amenities. The beautiful Allegheny Mountains in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia provide the setting for The Greenbrier's 6,500-acre estate.
A plethora of activities to enjoy including, one of the best spas in the world for men, golf, medical programs and mineral springs and make sure to pay a visit to the recently restored "Old White" golf course, which opened in 1914.
The resort boasts over two centuries of famous guests, including 26 presidents, royalty, business leaders, politicians and celebrities.
Rates from USD 275
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For almost 130 years royalty, dignitaries and distinguished travelers have all followed the legendary Chao Phrya River through the heart of Bangkok to the doors of one of the world's most luxurious hotels.
A visit to the legendary spa and the Thai cooking course from 1-5 days is a must for all foodies.
Officially opened in 1876, The Oriental is the chosen place for royalty, rich and famous.
Rates from USD 340
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A landmark 1928 building and just steps from the Champs-Elysees, George V has long been a favorite Parisian haunt for the celebrity and icons of the world.
Enjoy a tea in the famous Galerie de la Paix, home of a renowned tea connoisseurs' club.
In 1998, the hotel embarked upon a two-year renovation project and reopened as part of the Four Seasons portfolio.
Rates from Euro 700
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Since the opening in 1912, The Beverly Hills Hotel "Pink Palace" has been the place where Hollywood legends socialized by the pool or romanced the night away in cozy private bungalows.
The Spa by La Prairie is an intimate 1,916 square foot space with six sublime treatment rooms and don't forget to pay a visit to the legendary Fountain Coffee Room which has been restored to the original and classic curved 20 bar stool soda fountain counter originally built in 1949.
The new and very fashionable Bar Nineteen 12 is an indoor, outdoor bar a stylish meeting place for the rich & famous.
Rates from 440
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Commissioned by 250 Nashvillians in 1908, The Hotel Hermitage (named after Andrew Jackson's Hermitage estate) opened its doors on Saturday, Sept. 17, 1910.
In addition to the AAA 5 Diamond rating, The Hermitage hotel received the coveted Mobil 5 Star Award in 2007. They are proudly the only remaining grand hotel in Nashville and the lodging choice for the biggest names in the entertainment industry.
The hotel was home for eight years to pool legend Minnesota Fats. The pool shark, arguably the most famous player to pick up a cue stick, had his own table on the Mezzanine above the elegant lobby.
Rates from USD 249
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An Icon in New York City, this hotel first came about in 1893, only to be torn down and re-opened in 1931 as the largest hotel in the world. During recent renovations totaling in excess of $200 million, many of the hotel's original Art Deco treasures were rediscovered and unveiled, delighting a whole new generation of devoted admirers of the Waldorf Astoria.
The Waldorf's Chef Table used to only be available to special guests and royalty, however they are now open to the public for $150 pp + tax and gratuity. Alternatively, if you prefer something more subtle their afternoon tea offered on the Cocktail Terrace Tuesday - Saturday.
It is true, the Waldorf salad, consisting of apples, walnuts, celery, and a mayonnaise-based dressing, was first created in 1896 at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York by the maitre d'hotel Oscar Tschirky.
Rates from USD 459
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Since the 1890's the Hotel Hassler has been recognized as a landmark hotel with it's prime location atop the Spanish Steps and intimacy (only 95 rooms), it is no wonder that this hotel has kept the magic over the years.
Brunch at Imago, the recently renovated panoramic restaurant (12/2006), which is the highest spot in the city's center - at the top of the Spanish Steps. With views from the Villa Borghese gardens to the Trinita dei Monti Church, to Piazza di Spagna with its famous fountain "La Barcaccia", St. Peter's Basilica, the Pantheon and the Sant'Agnese Church by Borromini on the Piazza Navona
Roberto E. Wirth, Owner and General Manager of the Hotel Hassler, is the 5th generation of a famous dynasty of Swiss hoteliers is also founder and President of the International Wine Academy of Roma, the first of its kind in Italy. The Academy is situated in a 16-century building right by the Spanish Steps and a few minutes from the Hassler.
Rates from Euro 440
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Opened in 1923 and located in the very heart of Marrakech, La Mamounia is set amid idyllic gardens that are almost three hundred years old and surrounded by the city's 12th century ochre-colored ramparts.
A drink at the Churchill Bar, a classic lounge reminiscent of the old days, still dressed in black leather chrome. Take a walk through the gardens covering over 20 acres and designed according to Moroccan tradition.
Mamounia closed on July 1st, 2006 for a major renovation under the direction of noted designer, Jacques Garciathe hotel will be ready to open in 2008.
Rates from MAD 3300
