At the foot of Calton Hill in the centre of Edinburgh the location, location, location is spot on at The Glasshouse, one of Edinburgh’s impressive array of boutique hotels. It strides confidently at the top of Leith Walk, but remains within easy reach of Princes Street and all of the main tourist attractions, with many rooms boasting views of Calton Hill and/or the collage of old Edinburgh rooftops that sprinkle all around.
One of Scotland’s Sexiest Hotels
There is that great location and then there is the fact that The Glasshouse has been voted one of ‘Scotland’s Sexiest Hotels’. If you are looking for somewhere for a romantic weekend then this is the place with sultry décor and chic surrounds creating the romance, not to mention the private lavender scented rooftop garden with Calton Hill views. The Glasshouse graces the pages of fashion magazines and it is easy to see why.
Stylish and Modern Rooms
There are four types of room, but all boast similar stylish modern design, designer toiletries and CD players, ideal for setting the romantic mood. The highlight is the Deluxe Suite, which boasts its own private hot tub and sauna, not to mention the free decanter of whisky and the personalised business cards that are on hand to help you feel that bit extra special.
The Glasshouse does not have a restaurant as such open for lunch or dinner, but the breakfast spread, with the option of a la carte hot and cold treats like kippers or Eggs Benedict, sets guests up for a day sightseeing in the capital.
At the Heart of Edinburgh
There is not much in the way of facilities at The Glasshouse, but you have the entire city of Edinburgh just outside your doorstep. A major plus is the two acre private roof garden, where you can chill out, stroll around or just take in the sweeping views from a truly unique hotel space. Business types might also want to note that they have three meetings rooms, complete with audiovisual equipment, and that they can also lay on catering too.
Getting to Grips with Edinburgh
Edinburgh these days has something for everyone whether you are nine or ninety. The uninitiated should take a bus tour to get an idea of the layout, while even frequent visitors could never tire of some of Europe’s finest art galleries. Then there are five Michelin star restaurants to choose from in the form of Martin Wishart, Number One, Castle Terrace, 21212 and The Kitchin. Cosmopolitan Leith Walk lies just outside and at its foot the old port area, which is now alive with bars, cafes and restaurants, but has lost little of its buzzing maritime atmosphere.
The Glasshouse, 2 Greenside Place, Edinburgh EH1 3AA. Tel: +44 (0)131 525 8200. www.theglasshousehotel.co.uk
InsiderScotland Rating
For Families 6/10. For a Romantic Break 9/10. For Business People 7/10. InsiderScotland Rating 8/10.
