Review of Hotel de Rome, by Jeroen Bergmans

Sir Rocco Forte set new standards for luxury hotels in Berlin when he opened the Hotel de Rome in October 2006. Designer Tommaso Ziffer (also credited with the legendary Hotel de Russie in Rome), restored the 19th-century Teutonic grandeur of this former bank and added elegant, contemporary interiors. The result is a hotel that feels seriously smart without being stuffy.

Located in what was once East Berlin, the Hotel de Rome is an ideal base for a cultural mini-break as it is within walking distance of Alexanderplatz, the Museum Island and the Brandenburg Gate. Liveried doormen usher guests into the grand lobby which is lined with original terrazzo mosaics. Oversized sofas upholstered in black velvet surround a huge, suspended flower display.

The Hotel de Rome's restaurant Pariloi has a large terrace for the summer months and serves elaborate Italian and Mediterranean dishes. Bebel bar and lounge next door offers a lighter menu and classic cocktails, and the grand Opera Court is the perfect spot for afternoon tea. The hotel also has a Veuve Cliquot-branded roof terrace which is popular for parties thanks to its expansive views and atmospheric sunsets over the city.

But most impressive of all is the spa which is housed in the building's former bank vaults. Golden mosaics and LED lighting give the 20-metre pool a sparkling allure and organic beauty products give facials, massages and the aromatherapy steam room an eco twist.

The 146 rooms have a beige colour-scheme with splashes of black, mushroom brown and oxblood red. Framed black and white prints of Roman architectural icons pay tribute to Sir Rocco's homeland. And huge, hand-made beds, high ceilings and chaises lounges help to make the well-heeled guests feel right at home.

Deluxe rooms 104, 105 and 109 have great views of Bebel Square below and the four wood-panelled historical suites are arguably the grandest in Berlin.