Jamie Curran

Review of G&V Royal Mile Hotel (formerly...

Fantastic rooms, magnificent view, only draw back ...

Fantastic rooms, magnificent view, only draw back is the lack of a pool.

My partner and I stayed at the Missoni Hotel Edinburgh during the second week of April. We had a double room booked but were upgraded to a suite for free on arrival. Our bags were taken up to the room by the kilted concierge while we made dinner reservations for the hotel's restaurant, Cucina and booked ourselves in for some spa treatments that evening.

The decor and furniture are all in the typical funky style that the Missoni brand is known for. My partner particularly enjoyed the large spinning sofa chair. From the corridors, to the lift, to the televisions, right down to the custom beds, everything about the place will remind you that you are on your holidays.

The suite was roomy and comfortable with stunning views of St Giles Cathedral and across to the sea. The bathroom is modern and stylish with a rainfall shower and large bath that also benefits from the excellent views across the old town.

Being over 6 feet tall I always appreciate a large bed and I wasn't let down with enough space to accommodate the large trays used to deliver room service orders or sprawl out after walking the enchanting old town all afternoon. There is ample space to hang clothes and store your suitcase in the mirrored cabinets and wardrobes.

At the spa I had a deep tissue massage and my partner had a facial. The services were top notch and the treatments were enjoyable and relaxing, even the robes are quilted Missoni luxury. It was the perfect way to prepare for dinner.

When we arrived for dinner it was our first view of the Italian restaurant. It is on the mezzanine floor and has views of the national library on one side and the historic royal mile on the other. For starters I had the grilled buffalo cheese and tomato jam, followed by the rib eye steak and mashed potato. Desert was Tiramisu and I had a little of my partner's poached pear and almond cake. The food was absolutely beautiful. The service is attentive when you need it and out of sight when you don't. There is lots of room for each table and so the ambience is intimate and perfect for romantic conversation.

Throughout our stay the hotel staff were helpful and approachable. We had nothing but positive interactions with every member of staff and I was particularly impressed with Anne who handled our check in and check out. Her smile and attitude are a credit to the Missoni and her diligence and dedication to helping us enjoy our time in the hotel rivalled that of any staff I have encountered in any of the 5 star hotels I have stayed in across the world.

The only thing missing is a pool but the gym is handy and has all you need to keep up with your fitness goals while on your trip, there is so much to do in Edinburgh and the bathrooms are so well equipped that I you won't miss a pool in any case.