Story by Editor-at-Large Europe CAROLINA OGLIARO
“Hotel de Russie: A Timeless Sanctuary of Elegance in the Heart of Rome”
Rome, the Eternal City, is a timeless blend of history and luxury, but few places capture its essence as flawlessly as Hotel de Russie. Tucked between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo, this iconic Rocco Forte Hotels’ establishment isn’t just a hotel; it’s a haven where elegance meets legacy, curated under the visionary leadership of Sir Rocco Forte.
A Visionary Behind the Elegance: Sir Rocco Forte
At the heart of Hotel de Russie’s success lies Sir Rocco Forte, an entrepreneurial force in the world of luxury hospitality. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Sir Rocco Forte’s career epitomizes resilience and strength. He transformed Rocco Forte Hotels from a fledgling family business into a globally admired brand.
Sir Rocco Forte’s vision is rooted in his belief that “luxury is about creating
exceptional experiences, not just about opulence.” This philosophy has guided the growth of his hotels, with each property crafted to reflect its unique location while offering the highest standards of comfort and service. His sharp business acumen and forward-thinking mindset are lessons in leadership. He has often said, “We want our hotels to be places where guests feel part of the family, not just customers.” For aspiring entrepreneurs, his journey is a model of passion, resilience, and strategic insight, a true manifesto to the power of personal vision in building an enduring legacy.
His sharp business acumen and forward-thinking mindset are lessons in leadership. An advocate of heritage and innovation, Sir Rocco Forte blends traditional values with modern luxury, crafting experiences that resonate with discerning travelers. For aspiring entrepreneurs, his journey is nothing short of inspirational, proof that passion, paired with strategic insight, creates enduring legacies.
The Rocco Forte Legacy
Founded in 1996, Rocco Forte Hotels is now a name synonymous with luxury, refinement, and unparalleled service. Sir Rocco Forte’s vision was clear from the beginning: to create a collection of hotels that not only embodied the highest standards of hospitality but also captured the essence of each unique location. Today, Rocco Forte Hotels spans across some of the most iconic cities in Europe, including London, Edinburgh, Florence, and Munich, with each property a meticulously curated masterpiece that seamlessly blends local heritage with modern
luxury.
As Sir Rocco Forte has often remarked, “Each of our hotels is a reflection of its surroundings, designed to offer an authentic experience that resonates with the culture and history of its city.” This approach has helped the company stand apart in an industry driven by trends. His dedication to authenticity, quality, and personalized service has made Rocco Forte Hotels a true leader in the luxury hospitality sector.
A hallmark of Rocco Forte’s success has been the ability to maintain family values while scaling a global brand. Sir Rocco Forte continues to prioritize maintaining a personal connection with his guests, ensuring that each stay feels like a bespoke experience tailored to their needs. “It’s about creating environments where guests feel at home, surrounded by beauty, comfort, and exceptional service,” he has said.
This commitment to excellence, along with a keen eye for detail, has allowed Rocco Forte Hotels to flourish even in the most competitive markets. As the company evolves, Sir Rocco Forte remains dedicated to preserving the founding principles that have guided its success: a commitment to timeless luxury, a passion for local culture, and a focus on creating memorable, transformative experiences for each guest. This philosophy ensures that Rocco Forte Hotels will continue to be a benchmark of excellence in the luxury hospitality industry for generations to come. At the heart of this philosophy lies Hotel de Russie, a masterpiece that has welcomed luminaries and dreamers alike.
The Jewel of Rome: Hotel de Russie
Nestled in one of the most exclusive corners of Rome, Hotel de Russie is a masterpiece of luxury and refinement. Dating back to 1816, the hotel seamlessly blends historical charm with contemporary sophistication. Its unique design, characterized by soft pastel tones and modern accents, reflects the duality of the Eternal City, a place where antiquity and innovation coexist. Boasting 120 elegant rooms and suites, many with breathtaking views of the Piazza del Popolo or the hotel’s famed Secret Garden, it offers an unparalleled sense of tranquility in the heart of bustling Rome. Every detail, from its world-class spa to its attentive, discreet service, embodies the hotel’s commitment to creating a haven of relaxation and indulgence for its guests.
Every room and suite at Hotel de Russie is a testament to refined Italian
craftsmanship and timeless design. With interiors conceived by renowned designer and deputy chairman of Rocco Forte Hotels, Olga Polizzi, the spaces blend classical Roman elegance with contemporary luxury. Rich textures, soft hues, and bespoke furnishings create an atmosphere of understated opulence.
The hotel’s suites, including the prestigious Nijinsky Suite, redefine indulgence. Spanning the top floor, the Nijinsky Suite boasts expansive terraces with panoramic views of Rome’s historic skyline, from St. Peter’s Basilica to Villa Borghese gardens. Thoughtfully designed with marble bathrooms, sumptuous living areas, and curated artwork, each suite feels like a private sanctuary. From deluxe rooms to the grandest suites, every detail, Egyptian cotton linens, plush seating, and cutting-edge technology, has been curated to provide guests with the ultimate comfort and style. Whether for a weekend escape or a longer sojourn, Hotel de Russie ensures a stay imbued with elegance and tranquility.
A Culinary Odyssey: Le Jardin de Russie
Dining at Le Jardin de Russie is an experience that transcends the ordinary, offering a harmonious blend of refined flavors and enchanting ambiance. Under the visionary leadership of Chef Fulvio Pierangelini, one of Italy’s most acclaimed culinary talents and Creative Food Director of Food for Rocco Forte Hotels, the restaurant has become a gastronomic destination in its own right.
Chef Pierangelini, known for his ability to transform simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes, is celebrated for his ability to distill the essence of Italian cuisine and create menus that pay homage to the country’s rich culinary traditions while introducing a contemporary flair. His philosophy revolves around authenticity, simplicity, and a profound respect for the natural flavors of his ingredients.
Pierangelini often says, “Cuisine is not about invention; it’s about respect for what already exists.” This belief is evident in every dish he creates, where the purity of the ingredients shines through, untouched by unnecessary embellishments. His dishes are meticulously crafted, showcasing seasonal ingredients sourced from local producers, ensuring every bite captures the true spirit of Italy. Signature offerings such as the silky risottos, melt-in-your-mouth seafood, and reinterpretations of classic Roman dishes are a testament to his creative genius.
Another of his well-known reflections on his craft is: “Great cooking is an act of love, it’s about making people happy, creating emotions, and sharing a story through food.” This ethos is woven into the fabric of Le Jardin de Russie, where his menus evoke not just flavors but memories and emotions that linger long after the meal is over. With his exceptional talent and dedication, Pierangelini has elevated the dining experience at Hotel de Russie into a symphony of taste, tradition, and innovation. Set amidst the lush beauty of the Secret Garden, the restaurant offers guests the rare opportunity to dine al fresco under a canopy of citrus trees and twinkling lights.
Whether enjoying a leisurely breakfast, a sumptuous lunch, or a romantic dinner, the experience is elevated by attentive service and an atmosphere that whispers luxury. Le Jardin de Russie isn’t just a meal; it’s a poetic journey through the flavors of Italy, set against the timeless backdrop of Rome.
The Secret Garden: A Hidden Paradise
At the heart of Hotel de Russie lies its enchanting Secret Garden, a verdant retreat designed by the celebrated architect Giuseppe Valadier in the early 19th century. Valadier, a visionary of neoclassical architecture, was tasked with transforming this space into a harmonious blend of natural beauty and artistic elegance. His genius is evident in the garden’s terraced design, with cascading paths, ornate fountains, and citrus trees that evoke a serene Mediterranean charm.
Originally part of the adjoining palazzo, the garden became an integral feature of Hotel de Russie since the property establishment of the property. When the property was established in 1816. Over the years, this hidden oasis has provided respite and inspiration to artists, writers, and dignitaries, including Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau, who found solace and creativity amidst its tranquil allure. In its earlier days, the garden served as a retreat for aristocrats and intellectuals who frequented the palazzo. Its terraced structure, with its intricate pathways and strategically placed fountains, was revolutionary for its time, showcasing Valadier’s mastery in integrating landscape design with the surrounding architecture.
This space was also part of a broader effort to reimagine Rome as a city where nature and art coexist seamlessly, reflecting the neoclassical ideals of order, symmetry, and beauty. Today, the Secret Garden is a unique hallmark of the hotel, offering a serene setting for al fresco dining, leisurely strolls, or simply basking in the timeless beauty of Rome. It’s a place where history whispers through every leaf and petal, inviting guests to step into a world of elegance and tranquility.
Winter Indulgence at the Winter Punch Bar
When the cooler months blanket Rome in a crisp charm, the Winter Punch Bar at Hotel de Russie becomes the city’s most inviting escape. Nestled in the warmth of the hotel’s courtyard, this seasonal pop-up is a masterclass in cozy sophistication. Under softly glowing lights and surrounded by the greenery of the Secret Garden, the bar creates an enchanting chalet atmosphere perfect for intimate gatherings or a serene evening under the Roman sky wrapped up in a chic blanket exclusively designed by Frette. The bar’s menu is a testament to creativity and indulgence, featuring handcrafted punches and cocktails infused with winter spices, premium spirits, and seasonal ingredients. From the citrusy warmth of a classic punch to bold contemporary blends with unexpected flavors, each drink, hot or cold, is a celebration of the season.
Guests can pair their beverages with an array of gourmet treats, making the Winter Punch Bar not just a pitstop but a sensory experience. Whether you’re a guest of the hotel or a local looking for a unique experience, the Winter Punch Bar captures the essence of winter in Rome, a balance of elegance, comfort, and conviviality.
Throughout its storied history, Hotel de Russie has hosted some of the most celebrated figures of art, literature, and entertainment. Pablo Picasso, Jean Cocteau, and Ingrid Bergman are just a few of the luminaries who have walked its storied halls, lending the property an almost mythical status.
To step into Hotel de Russie is to enter a world where history, art, and luxury converge in perfect harmony. It’s a place that doesn’t just offer a stay but crafts an unforgettable narrative, one of timeless elegance, exceptional service, and a connection to Rome’s soul.
Whether you’re savoring a culinary masterpiece at Le Jardin de Russie, finding inspiration in the historic beauty of the Secret Garden, or basking in the serene luxury of your suite, every moment here is a testament to the hotel’s extraordinary legacy.
For those seeking more than just accommodation, Hotel de Russie invites you to be part of its story, a story that’s been graced by artists, visionaries, and dreamers. Why just visit Rome, when you can experience it as they did? In a world of fleeting trends, Hotel de Russie remains timeless, a sanctuary where every moment feels like a masterpiece. Why settle for ordinary when you can stay in the extraordinary?
