Historic Hotel
Hotel des Balances -Lucerne’s Luscious Riverside Historic Gem
There are few places in Europe where you can step out onto your private balcony and feel quite so immersed in the life of a historic city as you can at Hotel des Balances in Lucerne. Set directly along the River Reuss in the heart of Old Town, this property places you in the middle of one of Switzerland’s most photographed—and most storied—settings.
What distinguishes Hotel des Balances is not just its location, but the way it seamlessly blends centuries of history with the expectations of a modern four-star stay. The building itself dates back to 1190, having served as a town hall, guild house, and inn before becoming the refined hotel it is today. Its façade—adorned with a striking Renaissance-style mural—still reflects that long-standing connection to Lucerne’s civic and cultural life.
Inside, the experience is polished, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed for today’s traveler.
The hotel offers 56 rooms and suites, many of which face the river and include private balconies—arguably the most sought-after feature of the property. These rooms provide front-row views of Lucerne’s landmarks, including the iconic covered Chapel Bridge, the Jesuit Church, and the surrounding historic buildings. Interiors are clean and contemporary with subtle nods to classic European style, featuring quality bedding, well-appointed bathrooms, and amenities that support both relaxation and convenience.
For those looking to elevate their stay, upgraded rooms and suites offer additional space, enhanced views, and added touches such as sitting areas and premium finishes. The Romantic Suite, in particular, is designed for couples, complete with a private hot tub and an atmosphere that encourages lingering a little longer.
Service is consistently attentive without being overbearing—exactly what you want in a boutique historic property.
Dining is another highlight. The hotel’s restaurant and terrace sit directly on the river, making it as much about the setting as the cuisine. Guests can expect a menu rooted in French-Mediterranean influences, prepared with a modern approach and backed by an award-winning culinary team. Whether you are enjoying dinner at sunset or a relaxed lunch along the promenade, the experience feels both elevated and easy.
Breakfast is equally memorable, with a generous buffet and made-to-order options—but with one unexpected signature: a chocolate fondue fountain. It’s a distinctly Swiss touch that adds a bit of indulgence to the start of your day.
Beyond the hotel, you are steps from everything that makes Lucerne compelling—its preserved medieval streets, lakeside walks, cultural landmarks, and access to the surrounding Alps. Yet many guests find that the true draw is returning to the hotel itself—settling onto that balcony or terrace and watching the rhythm of the city unfold.
Hotel des Balances is ideal for travelers who want more than a place to sleep. It’s for those who value location, character, and comfort in equal measure—and who appreciate staying somewhere that has been part of a city’s story for more than 800 years.
You can explore room options and book your stay here: https://www.balances.ch
Room with a View on History: The Blackstone Hotel, Chicago
Along Chicago’s grand Michigan Avenue, where the skyline meets the edge of Lake Michigan, the Blackstone Hotel stands as one of the city’s most storied landmarks. Overlooking Grant Park, this historic property offers more than a place to stay—it offers a chance to experience Chicago through the lens of its past, paired with the comfort of a modern luxury hotel.
Originally opened in 1910 and designed by the renowned firm Marshall and Fox, the Blackstone reflects the elegance of the Beaux-Arts tradition. Its exterior, defined by detailed brickwork and a limestone base, hints at the grandeur inside. Step through the doors and you are met with marble floors, high ceilings, and carefully preserved architectural details that give the space a timeless, refined atmosphere.
The hotel’s legacy is one of its defining features. Known as the “Hotel of Presidents,” the Blackstone has welcomed an extraordinary list of guests, from U.S. presidents to cultural icons. One of its most famous spaces, the so-called “smoke-filled room,” became part of American political history during the 1920 Republican National Convention, when party leaders gathered to select Warren G. Harding as their nominee. Moments like this give the hotel a sense of depth and character that few properties can match.
Today, the Blackstone operates as part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, blending historic charm with modern expectations. Guest rooms are designed for both comfort and style, featuring plush bedding, spacious layouts, and well-appointed bathrooms. Many rooms offer sweeping views of Grant Park or Lake Michigan, providing a calm vantage point over the city’s energy. The design strikes a balance between classic and contemporary, allowing guests to feel both relaxed and connected to the hotel’s heritage.
Suites offer additional space and elevated views, making them ideal for longer stays or special occasions. Whether visiting for business or leisure, the accommodations feel polished, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed.
Dining is another highlight of the experience. Mercat a la Planxa, the hotel’s signature restaurant, serves Catalan-inspired cuisine in a lively, modern setting. The menu focuses on bold, shareable dishes that bring Mediterranean flavors to Chicago, creating a dining experience that feels both vibrant and approachable. It’s equally suited for a relaxed dinner or a more social evening out.
The hotel’s public spaces add to its appeal. Areas like the Art Hall combine contemporary artwork with historic architecture, creating a contrast that feels fresh and intentional. These spaces invite guests to slow down, explore, and take in the details that make the Blackstone unique.
Location plays a major role in the hotel’s appeal. Positioned directly across from Grant Park and within easy reach of museums, theaters, and the lakefront, the Blackstone places guests at the center of Chicago’s cultural landscape. It’s an ideal base for exploring the city while still offering a sense of retreat.
What makes a stay here memorable is not just the design or location, but the feeling that you are part of something ongoing. The same halls that once hosted presidents and performers are now yours to experience, creating a connection between past and present that feels rare and genuine.
The Blackstone is well suited for travelers who appreciate history, character, and thoughtful design. It offers a stay that is not only comfortable, but meaningful, one that reflects the spirit of Chicago itself.
You can explore room options and book your stay here: https://www.theblackstonehotel.com
