Luxury hides in an exotic and millenary city 

It was difficult to decipher what I was doing in Beirut, after all, had come to the capital of Lebanon. I froze for a second as we reached Professor Wafic Sinno Avenue and there, at that moment, as I opened the door of my taxi and watched the beautiful facade of the Hotel Four Seasons realized I was here ...in this city! Founded by the Phoenicians in the fifteenth century B.C. the city of Beirut lies close to the sea, it lives with pleasure, a night hectic pace of life, modern haute cuisine, and people so friendly and progressive that it left me impressed. The man who collected my bags approached quickly and I went after him for what I thought would be a conventional check in. The concierge team at the Four Seasons in Lebanon is composed of five people, all locals, who are more than efficient at the time to fulfill the wishes of whoever is lucky enough to stay at this luxurious hotel. 

But do not take my word, the general manager of the establishment, Stefan Simoviks makes justice to the result given by this quintet “our concierge team not only understands the Lebanese scene, it is a part of it”. 

 

 

 

“From the trendiest restaurants to the best nightclubs, chic shops or tickets to the most exciting cultural shows, if recommended by our concierge team, it will be a success”. Rather than making me feel welcome they made me feel at home, I began to walk through the huge marble lobby floor full of light to reach the suite in which I would be staying.

The two hundred and thirty standard rooms and suites have been designed by Pierre - Yves Rochon, which for me, was a pleasant surprise, “no creativity is made without dreams. The ability to dream with our projects allows us to create exciting hotels that surround and soothe the senses”. Established in 1979 PYR creates design solutions for luxury hotels. Each space is unique and consists of elements drawn from each location, its culture and history. Located on the top floor of the hotel, the Royal Suite captures a unique sense of exclusivity, with magnificent architecture and stunning views of the sea. It has a dining room that gives space to ten diners and next to it is the large living room in which you may enjoy a glass of wine and read a book or just chat with friends, added to this is the master bedroom, which has a canopied bed. 

At the moment we awake, the whole coast of Beirut is visible from the first blink of our eyes ... But, my favorite personal favorite? It has a large marble tub, which is perfect for spending a lazy afternoon watching the sunset through its windows that go from floor to ceiling with a backdrop of the sea and mountains. This room features steam and sauna. Yes, the entire suite has appropriated a balcony which completely takes over the room, a breakfast table and amazing views.  

 

 

 

 

It was getting dark and I still did not know which of all the options suited me:

The Grill Room serves the best steak in Beirut, as it focuses on U.S. Prime Beef and offers smart décor both outside and inside. You may choose a table near the marina; it offers impeccable service. After dining here, you will understand why it is one of the most coveted venues of the capital.

The Lounge, located on the second floor of the hotel offers international dishes and dinners at high hours of the night in a relaxed atmosphere in which the marina is protagonist.

To enjoy a collection of premium Cuban cigars or whiskey the best option is The Bar, serving homemade chocolates , truffles and a delightful fireplace during winter time .

However, my mind was telling me about going to the floor 26, The Roof, tapas lounge with an urban modern style that offers a perfect perch to enjoy the sunsets and the DJ music of the season, it owns a nondescript view of the skyline, mountains and sea.

A floating oasis in an outdoor lounge is undoubtedly the highest point in Beirut. A menu of tapas and Asian cuisine expects us to taste satayas and sui mai dumplings. The list of beverages offers an impressive selection of cocktails, wines and smoothies created from the freshest ingredients.

By day, this landmark luxury hotel’s panoramas of the sea and Mediterranean breezes will engulf you. By night, the sophistication and high-octane nightlife of Beirut, “the Paris of the Middle East,” will entrance you.

 

 

Info

Four Seasons Hotel Beirut

418 Professor Wafic Sinno Avenue, 

2020 4107 Minet El Hosn, 

Beirut, Lebanon

Tel. 961 (1) 761000

www.fourseasons.com/beirut/

 

Text: Amura ± Photo: Four Seasons