The timeless glamour of The Westin Palace Milan has been given a new lease of life with a fabulous contemporary renovation in one of Milan’s most dynamic neighbourhoods.
Traveller: Maria Pasquale
Room: Grand Deluxe
Address: Piazza della Repubblica 20, Milan
Date: October 2022
Price range: $400 – $750
Best for: Although suited to business travellers, the contemporary vibe and vicinity to some of Milan’s coolest spots make The West Palace an excellent choice for young-spirited lovers of luxury.
Location
The once-industrial Porta Nuova neighbourhood has had a futuristic overhaul to transform it into a vibrant business district thriving with ultra-modern architecture, luxe shopping and lively nightlife. Handily located 300m south of Milano Centrale train station, the hotel is easily accessible from both of the city’s airports, and many of the city’s major sights are within walking distance or a short hop on the metro.
Within a short walk, you can find
Italy’s tallest skyscraper, the Unicredit tower, is just up the road along the Porta Nuova shopping district. One of Milan’s most famous thoroughfares, Corso Buenos Aires, is a few minutes away by foot, and the lovely Indro Montanelli park provides a relaxing green space amidst the big city hubbub. A 20-minute walk will get you to the city’s most iconic sites, such as the Duomo, La Scala, Castello Sforzesco, Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele II and the super trendy designer ‘quadrilato’.
Claim to fame
The weight of the Westin name carries a legacy of classic luxury and hospitality, which has been blended with a fabulous new vision by interior designer Irene Pansadoro to create a mash-up of past and present while maintaining the brand’s core values. The Westin Palace echoes Milan’s ability to respect time-honoured traditions while keeping an eye on future trends and style.
The showstopper
Clever biophilic design and use of space merge the exterior with the interior. From the luscious facade of greenery (a nod to the nearby Bosco Verticale towers) to the elements and echoes of nature littered throughout the communal spaces. The hotel cleverly connects guests to the outside without sacrificing stylish design and luxurious comfort.
The room
The Grand Deluxe rooms are spacious havens of luxury with tones of grey, gold, blush and giallo milanese combined in a soft, welcoming colour palette. Luxe fabrics and striking classical architecture keep with the Empire theme of the renovation. All rooms have signature beds, Nespresso machines, and sumptuous marble bathroom’s with top-quality baths and rain showers. A small living area gives added relaxation space, with great views over the city a fantastic added bonus.
Amenity game
The hotel offers excellent room amenities, including the trademarked Westin Heavenly bed. Bespoke toiletries, fluffy towels, slippers and robes add an extra layer of luxury to the bathroom, but the in-room steamer is a game-changer. Although the hotel offers a full laundry service, it’s handy to quickly steam an outfit when travelling light on a short trip.
Beyond the rooms
The hotel’s celebrated PanEVO restaurant boasts a gorgeous terrace for al fresco dining in the warmer months. While the sophisticated, gold-ceilinged lobby bar extends out to the leafy front patio. As well as numerous meeting and conference rooms available for special events, there is also a 24-hour fitness studio and a spa.
Spa life
The hotel’s relaxing holistic spa incorporates a multi-sensory element to its wide range of customised treatments. A top team of therapists are on hand to personalise the experience to your needs. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a busy day. Guests also have access to the sauna and steam room.
Dish to dine for
While Chef Moris La Greco uses a host of Mediterranean flavours and inspiration at his PanEVO restaurant, take advantage of the chance to sample his superlative takes on the Lombardy classics. Try the rich, glossy risotto alla milanese served with tender braised ossobuco. Or the crisp, golden ‘elephant ear’ veal cutlet. And when it’s truffle season, be sure to splurge on the specially devised menu to showcase the prized white truffles from Alba.
Executive Chef Moris La Greca at PanEVO © Westin Palace Milan
Staying in
The property offers several communal spaces designed for intimacy and privacy. From the quaint two-person love seats and comfy wing-backed armchairs of the lobby, to the chic lounge bar and its old-time salotto vibe. While its pretty patio is perfect for sipping an expertly-mixed aperitivo. If the weather is good, head up to the 8th floor to the hotel’s spectacular rooftop terrace. Here you can recline on a sun lounger and take in the breathtaking view of the Milanese skyline. Free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the hotel will keep you connected anytime of day.
Stepping out
The Porta Nuova area is an ever-evolving part of town with some of the city’s most exciting new openings for great shopping, drinking and dining. The concierge team are excellent at recommending, advising and organising the best way to make the most of your stay. For a unique way to see the neighbourhood ask about the RUNWESTIN program, a personalised running map of the area.
The family factor
Despite the lack of a pool and the limited number of kid-friendly spaces, Westin Palace Milan caters to families with its four-person suites and interconnecting rooms. Children are given a welcome pack at check-in, and the hotel can organise babysitting services. In addition, the fluffy four-legged members of the family can also come along for your stay, as the hotel is pet friendly.
Insiders’ tips
Sign up for the Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Program to earn points on all your stays across the brand’s group of hotels and other affiliate partners. Points will get you free stays, upgrades, and a host of lifestyle and travel benefits.
Spaces designed for intimacy © Westin Palace Milan
Before booking
As a business capital, Milan is a busy city year-round. But there are good deals in the low season of late autumn and winter, and special offers for short city breaks. Annual international events such as Milan Fashion Week and the Salone di Mobile affect prices and availability. So be wary of travel during major design or fashion events.
I wish I could take home
The interiors. The decor, furnishings, colours and small luxury touches are well thought out. Tones of teal, gold, rose, and gold just oozes Empire-style elegance and the faultlessly fabulous Milanese style.
Signature expert rating
9 out of 10. There’s so much to like about the pampering Westin brand, and this Milanese instalment is elegance and style from check-in to check-out.
IL PRIMO ECOMMERCE SPECIALIZZATO IN DELIZIE AL TARTUFO E CAVIALE – CAVIAREAT.COM