Luxury often draws inspiration from legends, and Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin is no exception. Back in the day, in the early 1900s, the vision was to build a superlative hotel with advanced amenities for the time like hot running water, electric power and an ingenious cooling system, to impress distinguished guests of The German Empire
With Kaiser (emperor) Wilhelm II’s support, the legendary Adlon hotel was first built in October 1907 by the original owner, Lorenz Adlon. Its location: right next to the Brandenburg Gate, a site for major historical events in Germany.
After being ravaged by World War II, the property instantly regained its status as Germany’s most prestigious hotel after reopening in 1997 as Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin, under the flagship of Europe’s oldest hotel group, Kempinski.
Exactly 117 years after it first opened, the hotel continues to be a meeting place of choice for heads of state, royals, politicians, stars, intellectuals, artists, designers, entrepreneurs, and Berliners themselves.
VIP PERFECT
The Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin boasts 385 rooms, including 78 suites (including 3 Presidential Suites), and features two fine dining options alongside two beverage hangouts, including a smokers’ lounge. The gourmet restaurant, Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, has been honoured with two Michelin stars for its exquisite cuisine. The Brasserie Quarré offers a delightful international menu with regional influences.
The three Presidential Suites differentiate themselves by offering unparalleled security detail and a private spa, complete with steam, sauna and jacuzzi, so guests have their privacy without compromising on indulgence. Should the VIP guest require an entire high-security wing, these suites come with the option of interconnected suites, additional rooms, waiting lounge for security staff and more.
Despite these key similarities, the suites have their own individual style. The Imperial Suite is the largest one on property at 220 sqm. The 185 sqm Presidential Suite is designed in the style of a New York penthouse of the 1920s.
The Royal Suite, which we are taken to for a site visit, offers a picture postcard view that was also enjoyed by Queen Elizabeth II when she was a guest of the hotel in 2015. Where else could she have enjoyed an unobstructed view of the Brandenburg Gate? Not just the queen, but countless personalities have enjoyed this suite, paired with the incredible view of the city’s landmark, serviced by butler 24/7.
Considering the duration of stay, the number of nights, the time of year, the Royal Suite could command rates from $13,300 to $26,600 per night, we learn on our visit.
The Royal Suite offers more than just opulence, it takes care of functional needs to perfection, all 185 sq m of this space is meticulously designed to meet guests’ whims. It features a small kitchen, perfect for the butler to prepare something special for guests. There’s also a second bedroom, ideal for guests who prefer separate sleeping arrangements.
This suite is one of the few luxury accommodations we have seen that feature bulletproof amenities and a high-tech surveillance system, ensuring the security of high-profile guests.
SPARKLING SPA
Spa Adlon by Resense in the hotel’s basement is Berlin’s largest, and undoubtedly most luxurious, day spa: it spans three floors and covers 1,800 square metres, offering 15 different treatments.
The facility includes three private spa suites of 45 sqm, equipped with bath, Jacuzzi, shower with integrated steam bath/sauna; eight luxurious treatment rooms with heated massage beds for added comfort, equipped with bath, shower, steam sauna or Finnish sauna; serene relaxation areas and a dedicated yoga space. The spa features premium cosmetic brand partnerships such as 111 SKIN and BARBOR.
A freshly renovated pool area, ADLON POOL, was unveiled in the spa last month. In addition to the swimming pool and whirlpool, it includes an extensive sauna area with a wide range of treatments from the Italian spa specialist, STARPOOL. These include an ice waterfall, a Finnish sauna, a temperature-reduced soft sauna, a marble-looking steam bath in the architecture of an Arabian hammam, among other indulgences.
What’s more, in true Adlon-style, a newly designed pool bar offers delights such as the Adlon currywurst with edible gold leaf.
The perfect winter welcome.CHRISTMASSY ADLON
Overlooking Pariser Platz, close to the Brandenburg Gate, Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin is surrounded by some of the foremost sights and attractions in Berlin, as well as exclusive boutiques, sensational galleries and remarkable theatres.
Explore Berlin’s several Christmas markets, including the biggest one, Blauer Lichterglanz, which is held in the Old Town, stretching all the way down Brandenburger Strasse.
During Christmas, Hotel Adlon Kempinski comes alive with the harmonious sounds of a gospel choir, serenading guests from the island balcony. Their melodies resonate through the grand halls, adding a touch of magic to the atmosphere. This makes the afternoon tea an event in itself, accompanied by a gospel choir performing. The hotel is adorned with lavish decorations, including a magnificent Christmas tree that stands as the centrepiece of this festive display.