UNTER DEN LINDEN 77 | 10117 BERLIN | GERMANY
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There are moments when I would gladly bring time to a standstill, if only to linger over them a little longer. I am speaking of those rare experiences that remain etched in the memory, even after countless stays at some of the world’s finest hotels and resorts.
They are moments best savoured from the comfort of a deep armchair, perhaps beside a crackling fire or the gentle murmur of a fountain at the heart of a hotel lobby. A freshly brewed coffee rests within reach, accompanied by a delicate tiered stand of pastries. The reading material usually remains untouched; there is simply too much for the eye to take in.
For me, the hotel lobby is the very heart of every great hotel. The more often the gleaming entrance doors swing open—or, in the case of the grandest establishments, revolve—the more captivating the spectacle becomes. It is here that nationalities, generations and personal styles converge in a single elegant setting.
The next time you reserve a room at a historic grand hotel, allow yourself the luxury of lingering for a while. Sit back, observe, and simply absorb the remarkable atmosphere unfolding around you.
There are few places where this is more rewarding than at Berlin's most celebrated hotel, the legendary Hotel Adlon Kempinski.
And so here I am, settled into one of the wonderfully comfortable armchairs in this magnificent lobby, whose elegant winter garden aesthetic is crowned by an exquisite glass dome. As the discreet and attentive staff quietly take care of my luggage, the splendid Elephant Fountain beside me provides a gentle soundtrack with its soothing cascade of water. Quite simply, it could not be more perfect.
Before long, a freshly brewed coffee arrives, accompanied by a carefully curated selection of delicate biscuits and pastries. As though the scene were not enchanting enough already, the hotel's resident pianist begins the day's performance, filling the lobby with melodies that drift gracefully from the Belle Étage through the corridors of the house.
The expressions on the faces around me are as telling as my own. A sense of ease, contentment and quiet happiness—however sentimental it may sound—hangs effortlessly in the air. It is precisely this intangible quality that makes the atmosphere so extraordinary.
For a little while, the outside world simply ceases to exist. The pressures and relentless pace of everyday life fade into the background, replaced by an overwhelming sense of calm. It soon becomes clear that not everyone here is a resident guest; many visitors have come simply to immerse themselves in this unique ambience for an hour or two of peaceful escape.
As Yiruma's «River Flows in You» gently fills the room, I savour my aromatic coffee and surrender to the tranquillity, already looking forward to the two unforgettable days that await me here, at the very heart of Germany's capital.
Join me on a journey through the legendary Adlon and allow yourself to be inspired by a luxurious escape from the everyday.
Adlon obliges.
I wish you a most enjoyable stay.
Warm regards,
Martin V. Sampedrano Gonzalez
Editor
Rooms & Suites
Within moments, the nostalgic lift—its polished brass indicator gracefully marking the ascent from one floor to the next—carries me to the sixth floor, the highest residential level of the hotel. Here, my home away from home awaits: the magnificent Brandenburg Gate Suite.
This exquisitely appointed residence takes its name from Berlin's most iconic landmark, which can be admired in uninterrupted splendour through the floor-to-ceiling windows of both the living room and bedroom. Yet while the panoramic views are nothing short of extraordinary, the suite itself proves every bit as captivating. Elegant, impeccably crafted and effortlessly timeless, it is a sanctuary that impresses in every conceivable detail.
The interior strikes a masterful balance between timeless elegance and contemporary comfort. Traditional furnishings sit harmoniously alongside modern conveniences, including discreetly integrated televisions, multifunction telephones and atmospheric indirect lighting. Guests enter the suite through elegant double doors, revealing a beautifully appointed entrance hall finished in lustrous burr wood veneer, complete with a guest cloakroom and powder room.
From here, the space unfolds into a magnificent drawing room, where warm shades of gold and beige are paired with rich cherry and myrtle wood finishes. Ornately detailed table lamps, sumptuous fabrics and finely crafted soft furnishings create a sophisticated palette that feels both luxurious and wonderfully inviting.
A particular focal point is the magnificent fireplace. Especially during the winter months, its gentle warmth transforms the room into an intimate retreat—an idyllic setting in which to linger over a freshly brewed coffee or afternoon tea.
Beyond another set of elegant double doors lies the inviting bedroom, where the harmonious palette of gold and soft beige continues. At its centre stands an impressive handcrafted four-poster bed, dressed with generous pillows, exceptionally comfortable mattresses and the finest linens. Guests may also choose from an extensive pillow menu upon request—a thoughtful touch that reflects Kempinski's unwavering commitment to personalised comfort.
Rather than conventional light switches, the suite features intuitive electronic control panels discreetly integrated into the bedside tables, allowing guests to regulate room temperature, humidity, ventilation and ambient lighting with ease, including dedicated night-light settings for both the bedroom and bathroom.
Adjoining the bedroom is a spacious walk-in wardrobe, offering ample storage for even the most extensive travel wardrobe. Beyond it lies the generously proportioned bathroom—an exquisite private sanctuary that rivals the finest luxury spas.
Here, polished black granite and luminous marble shimmer beneath elegant wall sconces, while magnificent mirrors and a beautifully appointed dressing table lend the room an unmistakable sense of grandeur. Above, a softly gilded ceiling completes the composition, bathing the space in a warm, understated glow. It is a setting in which guests can indulge in a truly private spa experience, surrounded by complete tranquillity.
To enjoy the comfort of a suite of this calibre is a genuine privilege. Luxurious without ever feeling ostentatious, every element has been thoughtfully composed to create an atmosphere that is not only opulent but also remarkably harmonious, welcoming and effortlessly timeless.
Beyond the Brandenburg Gate Suite, Hotel Adlon Kempinski offers an impressive collection of 80 suites, ranging from elegantly appointed Junior Suites to three magnificent Presidential Suites. Complementing these are 302 beautifully designed guestrooms, spanning the Executive to Superior Deluxe categories. Each has been thoughtfully conceived, combining luxurious interiors, carefully selected furnishings and a harmonious colour palette to create an unforgettable sense of place.
Throughout the hotel, every room and suite seamlessly blends state-of-the-art technology with timeless classical design, ensuring that modern comfort is delivered with the elegance and refinement for which the Adlon has long been renowned.
ADLON POOL
In the early hours of the morning, Berlin still seems wrapped in peaceful silence. Looking out towards the Brandenburg Gate, the usually bustling landmark lies almost deserted—a tranquil scene that, only a few hours later, will become one of the city's most photographed backdrops.
It is seven o'clock on a Saturday morning. After a refreshing start to the day, I make my way to the bathroom before slipping into a wonderfully soft bathrobe and comfortable slippers, ready to discover the hotel's wellness sanctuary.
An exclusive guest lift provides effortless access from the residential floors directly to the spa level below, where Hotel Adlon Kempinski's serene oasis of relaxation awaits.
At the beginning of 2024, the ADLON POOL closed its doors for an extensive eight-month transformation. The result is one of the most sophisticated and contemporary wellness sanctuaries in luxury hospitality.
Bathed in soft natural light, the spa exudes an immediate sense of serenity. A harmonious palette of warm materials defines the interiors, where limed oak enhanced with reflective detailing, shimmering plaster finishes, carefully curated lounge furnishings and wall panels upholstered in lustrous fabrics combine to create an atmosphere of complete tranquillity and understated elegance.
At the heart of the space lies the striking swimming pool, finished in elegant black marble-effect tiles. Its carefully choreographed lighting transforms every swim into an almost cinematic experience, evoking the mesmerising ambience of the sea after sunset.
The elegant new design bears the unmistakable signature of interior designer Anne Maria Jagdfeld, who has created a peaceful retreat dedicated to relaxation, wellbeing and quiet indulgence.
The ADLON POOL is available exclusively to hotel guests daily from 7.00 am until 9.00 pm, with complimentary access throughout their stay. Subject to availability, non-residents may also purchase a day pass, which includes use of the swimming pool, sauna facilities and fitness centre, together with tea, mineral water, fresh fruit, bathrobes and towels. Day passes are priced from €65 Monday to Friday and €85 at weekends.
Adlon Spa by Resense
The Adlon Spa by Resense offers a spa experience of the highest order, welcoming both hotel guests and day visitors into a world of understated luxury. Conceived in a refined, minimalist style, it provides an idyllic sanctuary far removed from the demands of everyday life.
Spanning approximately 900 square metres, this exceptional wellness retreat comprises thirteen beautifully appointed treatment rooms, three luxurious spa suites and an elegant yoga studio, all thoughtfully designed to encourage complete relaxation and restoration.
The interiors are distinguished by their generous proportions and the meticulous use of precious natural materials. Fine marble, softly illuminated alabaster feature walls, limed oak, handcrafted wall coverings and bespoke stingray leather consoles combine to create an atmosphere where exclusivity and serenity exist in perfect harmony.
The philosophy of the Adlon Day Spa draws inspiration from the five elements of traditional Chinese medicine—earth, fire, metal, wood and water—which together symbolise balance, harmony and holistic wellbeing. Guided by these principles, the spa presents an exceptional collection of bespoke rituals and signature treatments, complemented by classical face and body therapies delivered to the highest international standards.
The spa's carefully curated treatment menu promises an exclusive journey of relaxation for body, mind and soul. Among its most exceptional offerings are the **Private Spa Suites**, designed especially for couples seeking complete tranquillity, privacy and uncompromising exclusivity.
Each suite is enhanced by individually programmed chromotherapy lighting and features the comfort of an intimate private lounge. Depending on the suite selected, guests can enjoy a private dressing area together with either a luxurious bathtub or whirlpool, a shower incorporating a steam room, or a private sauna.
The experience is elevated even further in the **Business Spa Suites**, where an LCD television and telephone provide additional convenience for those wishing to combine wellbeing with complete discretion. Treatments may be enjoyed within the privacy of the suite itself or in one of the spa's dedicated treatment rooms, allowing every visit to be tailored entirely to the individual preferences of each guest.
Gourmet Cuisine
Hotel Adlon Kempinski is the very embodiment of the classic grand hotel. Every aspect of the property exudes timeless elegance, while its impeccable service reflects a tradition of hospitality that has endured for generations. The same uncompromising pursuit of excellence is evident in the hotel's culinary offering, where guests are treated to an exceptional gastronomic experience.
Stepping into the «Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer» on the Belle Étage marks the beginning of a remarkable culinary journey. Since opening its doors in 2000, this intimate fine-dining restaurant, overlooking the Brandenburg Gate, has earned an outstanding reputation among the world's leading gourmet destinations.
Signature creations such as the celebrated «Sole Fillet Adlon» and the legendary «Canard à la presse» are enduring expressions of the restaurant's unwavering commitment to culinary excellence. Today, the Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer honours its rich heritage with the utmost respect while continuing to evolve with confidence, ensuring that one of Germany's most distinguished gastronomic institutions remains firmly focused on the future.
Since Hotel Adlon reopened in 1997, it has earned widespread acclaim for its exceptional cuisine. Since 2000, its gourmet restaurant has consistently ranked among the finest dining addresses in the German capital.
Yet outstanding cuisine alone does not account for its success. The service is equally impressive, combining polished professionalism with warmth, precision and an intuitive understanding of the guest experience.
The classically elegant dining room is distinguished by richly panelled walls, immaculate table linens and exquisite silver decorative pieces sourced from Berlin’s renowned Galerie Hahn. Particular care has also been devoted to the ceiling of this magnificent salon, allowing guests to dine beneath an impressive celestial fresco. For private celebrations or intimate dinners, the adjoining library provides an especially refined and discreet setting.
After a restful night in the exceptionally comfortable beds of Hotel Adlon Kempinski, the generous breakfast buffet on the Belle Étage offers an inviting start to the day. Directly adjoining the hotel’s splendid lobby is the «Brasserie Quarré», another of the property’s signature culinary venues.
At lunchtime, the culinary team presents an exquisite business lunch, inviting both hotel residents and outside guests to savour the experience.
The menu showcases sophisticated cuisine with a distinctive regional character, served in a light-filled setting infused with Mediterranean warmth. In the evening, opulent menu compositions set the tone for a more indulgent dining experience, while during the summer months the outdoor terrace provides an inviting place in which to linger.
Lobby Lounge & Bar
The Lobby Bar & Lounge can best be described as the beating heart of the legendary Hotel Adlon Kempinski. Situated at the centre of the hotel's vibrant social scene, it is the natural focal point where guests gather throughout the day.
From the comfort of its elegant armchairs and sofas, one can listen to the gentle murmur of the iconic Elephant Fountain at the heart of the lobby while savouring a perfectly brewed coffee or a glass of fine Champagne. Each afternoon, from 2.00 pm to 6.00 pm, the hotel serves its classic «Afternoon Tea».
Accompanied by the tea of your choice, attentive staff present a beautifully arranged tiered stand featuring an exquisite selection of both savoury delicacies and handcrafted sweet creations from the Adlon kitchen. It is a timeless ritual—and an experience that should not be missed.
A Lasting Impression
Few hotels in Germany possess a legacy as remarkable as that of «Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin». To spend a night within its storied walls is an experience in itself. Those who appreciate historic charm reimagined with contemporary elegance—while remaining deeply respectful of tradition and executed with meticulous attention to detail—will feel truly at home here.
Above all, however, it is the warmth, professionalism and genuine hospitality of the people who bring this legendary hotel to life that give the Adlon its unmistakable soul.
More than a century after it first became synonymous with exceptional hospitality, the hotel's enduring credo remains: «Adlon obliges» It is a philosophy that continues to be embraced and upheld by every generation of hosts who welcome guests through its doors.
I very much look forward to returning to this remarkable address and hope that your own stay will be filled with equally unforgettable moments at one of Europe's truly iconic luxury hotels.
Photography: Hotel Adlon Kempinski

























