The Grande Dame Hotel Review: The Beverly Hills Hotel
Luxury Reviews Says 9/10
Experience timeless Old Hollywood glamour with impeccable service. Step back into the golden age of the silver screen—who might you find sharing your breakfast at this iconic retreat?
The Hotel
Built in 1912, this Mediterranean-style oasis is one of the most iconic hotels in the world. Affectionately known as The Pink Palace, it’s less a hotel and more a living archive of Hollywood royalty. Fred Astaire once read The Hollywood Reporter by the pool. Lucille Ball had her breakfast rituals at the Fountain Coffee Room. Howard Hughes commandeered not one but six of the bungalows. And Elizabeth Taylor? She honeymooned here—six times out of eight.
As with all ultra-luxury stays, it’s worth booking through a Virtuoso-affiliated travel advisor likePropeller Travel. Perks often include upgrades, resort credit, and breakfast for two—a particularly welcome addition when room service eggs come with Beverly Hills pricing.
This doesn’t feel like checking into a sprawling, soulless corporate hotel. Instead, you’re stepping into an exclusive club—where you’re not just a guest, but a welcomed member with a truly special host.
The Vibe and Who are You Likely to See There?
The hotel feels like a grand English country house—if that country house happened to be wrapped in five and a half miles of banana leaf wallpaper. Step inside, and the outside world fades away, replaced by an intoxicating escape into the realm of Hollywood royalty.
Celebrity sightings here are so frequent, they quickly become part of the backdrop. A strict ‘no camera’ policy in many areas helps keep the stars comfortable—and keeps you feeling like you’ve stepped onto a real-life movie set.
The First Impression 10/10
The glamour begins before you even step inside. Tucked discreetly behind a veil of towering palms on Sunset Boulevard, The Beverly Hills Hotel reveals itself with cinematic flair. The sweeping driveway curves dramatically to that iconic entrance—where a plush red carpet rolls from curb to lobby. Within moments, the car was flanked by bellhops in trimmed livery, greeting us with polished warmth and a kind of synchronized efficiency usually reserved for film premieres.
Before we knew it, we were gliding into the serene, softly lit glamour of the lobby. At the reception desk, the check-in was swift and discreet—our luggage already en route to the room with the kind of behind-the-scenes choreography this hotel is known for. There were no welcome drinks offered, but we were promptly shown to the charming vintage elevator and whisked away to our room, where the Hollywood nostalgia only deepened.
Traditional and luxurious with just the right dose of contemporary polish, The Beverly Hills Hotel has managed to preserve its old-school Hollywood glamour without slipping into nostalgia. The iconic red carpet entrance remains blissfully unchanged—and quite rightly so. Some things don’t need reinvention when they’re already timeless.
The Rooms 9/10
I do not like rooms with connecting doors. So when I spotted one on our balcony room, I immediately asked if there was an alternative. Within minutes, a bellhop arrived with a new key and escorted me to an upgraded room—complete with a spacious terrace and, crucially, no connecting door. The speed and smoothness of that switch impressed me.
The rooms are luxurious and thoughtfully appointed, perfectly continuing that English country home vibe. As you’d expect, the finest Frette linens dress the bed, which looks so impeccably made it almost feels wrong to mess it up.
The bathrooms are spa-like, as you’d expect, with all the trimmings of luxury: plush towels, high-end toiletries, and televisions discreetly built into the mirrors—for those who simply must catch the news while brushing their teeth.
Technology here is quietly impressive, with high-speed internet, one-touch mood lighting, and Bang & Olufsen TV and portable speaker—set thoughtfully at a volume that keeps the peace with your terrace neighbours.
Turndown service arrived with plush slippers, elegant bedside footmats, and a homemade cookie—an understated indulgence.
The Facilities 9/10
Once you’ve claimed your spot in this exclusive little world, it’s time to wander. The hotel sits on twelve acres of gardens dotted with 23 bungalows—perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bit of quiet exploration.
There’s Bar Nineteen12, where the cocktails come with a side of California sunset and some laid-back tunes. Then there’s the Polo Lounge, the legendary Hollywood dining room that’s been playing host to deals, gossip, and the odd starlet for decades. If you feel like burning off last night’s indulgences, the fitness room is ready and waiting. Or, if you’d rather embrace the downtime fully, the spa offers a selection of high-end treatments to help you forget the outside world altogether.
The pool here is more than just a pool — it’s a proper destination with a touch of Hollywood history. Opened in 1914, this iconic lagoon has seen legends like Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable basking under the California sun. The Cabana Cafe is perfectly placed for snacks and drinks, just a few steps from your lounger shaded by a signature banana leaf umbrella. If you’re after privacy and exclusivity, the cabanas are practically mini hotel rooms. Usually, I’m not one to park myself poolside all day, but this was one spot I genuinely didn’t want to leave.
If you’re an early riser craving a caffeine fix, the Fountain Coffee Room serves up a solid selection of coffee, teas, pastries, and fresh fruit to get your day started.
The Service 10/10
Service was impeccable and discreet from the moment the car door opened on arrival right through to check-out. Everywhere you went, smiling staff were genuinely helpful—this sprawling property clearly trains its team well. Ask for directions and someone will drop everything to personally escort you.
Check-out, however, was a different story. Not a word about whether I enjoyed my stay, no hopes expressed for a return visit, not even a simple goodbye or “have a good day.” The promised folio email never arrived either. It felt like, once you stop being a paying guest, you’re instantly forgotten. Still, that was the only blot on an otherwise flawless service experience—perhaps just an unlucky exception.
The Dining 10/10
Dining here comes with a clear dress code and a strict no-camera policy. It’s all about immersing yourself in the experience—not broadcasting it live on FaceTime.
Bar Nineteen12 knows its way around a Martini, and its picturesque terrace quickly became my go-to spot for sunset cocktails.
The Polo Lounge is a Hollywood icon for good reason. With private alcoves and cozy booths perfect for discreet chats, the attentive service and solid food keep guests coming back. Don’t miss the soufflé—it’s worth every penny, even if you’re sceptical.
Breakfast on the Polo Lounge’s outdoor terrace feels like a Tuscan garden escape—only with a distinctly Hollywood twist. Around you, A-list celebrities casually pitch ideas and exchange smooches with producers and directors, making for a front-row seat to Tinseltown’s daily drama.
The Cabana Cafe opens at 10 a.m., serving an all-day breakfast menu perfect for lingering poolside. The star attraction? A poolside Baked Alaska—an extravagant, show-stopping dessert that’s as rare as it is indulgent. It’s a lavish nod to old Hollywood glamour, turning a simple pool day into a truly memorable occasion.
The Attention to Detail 10/10
Pretty much as good as it gets.
The Good, Bad and Ugly
Worth it? Absolutely. It’s pricey, but a stay here is a rare indulgence I’d gladly repeat—time and time again.
Stay here for an escape from the outside world—a rare chance to step into old Hollywood glamour and soak up a timeless luxury that feels utterly exclusive.
Don’t stay here for sleek modern design, Instagram-ready dining, or loud pool parties
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Luxury Reviews Says 9/10
Experience timeless Old Hollywood glamour with impeccable service. Step back into the golden age of the silver screen—who might you find sharing your breakfast at this iconic retreat?
The Hotel
Built in 1912, this Mediterranean-style oasis is one of the most iconic hotels in the world. Affectionately known as The Pink Palace, it’s less a hotel and more a living archive of Hollywood royalty. Fred Astaire once read The Hollywood Reporter by the pool. Lucille Ball had her breakfast rituals at the Fountain Coffee Room. Howard Hughes commandeered not one but six of the bungalows. And Elizabeth Taylor? She honeymooned here—six times out of eight.
As with all ultra-luxury stays, it’s worth booking through a Virtuoso-affiliated travel advisor likePropeller Travel. Perks often include upgrades, resort credit, and breakfast for two—a particularly welcome addition when room service eggs come with Beverly Hills pricing.
This doesn’t feel like checking into a sprawling, soulless corporate hotel. Instead, you’re stepping into an exclusive club—where you’re not just a guest, but a welcomed member with a truly special host.
The Vibe and Who are You Likely to See There?
The hotel feels like a grand English country house—if that country house happened to be wrapped in five and a half miles of banana leaf wallpaper. Step inside, and the outside world fades away, replaced by an intoxicating escape into the realm of Hollywood royalty.
Celebrity sightings here are so frequent, they quickly become part of the backdrop. A strict ‘no camera’ policy in many areas helps keep the stars comfortable—and keeps you feeling like you’ve stepped onto a real-life movie set.
The First Impression 10/10
The glamour begins before you even step inside. Tucked discreetly behind a veil of towering palms on Sunset Boulevard, The Beverly Hills Hotel reveals itself with cinematic flair. The sweeping driveway curves dramatically to that iconic entrance—where a plush red carpet rolls from curb to lobby. Within moments, the car was flanked by bellhops in trimmed livery, greeting us with polished warmth and a kind of synchronized efficiency usually reserved for film premieres.
Before we knew it, we were gliding into the serene, softly lit glamour of the lobby. At the reception desk, the check-in was swift and discreet—our luggage already en route to the room with the kind of behind-the-scenes choreography this hotel is known for. There were no welcome drinks offered, but we were promptly shown to the charming vintage elevator and whisked away to our room, where the Hollywood nostalgia only deepened.
Traditional and luxurious with just the right dose of contemporary polish, The Beverly Hills Hotel has managed to preserve its old-school Hollywood glamour without slipping into nostalgia. The iconic red carpet entrance remains blissfully unchanged—and quite rightly so. Some things don’t need reinvention when they’re already timeless.
The Rooms 9/10
I do not like rooms with connecting doors. So when I spotted one on our balcony room, I immediately asked if there was an alternative. Within minutes, a bellhop arrived with a new key and escorted me to an upgraded room—complete with a spacious terrace and, crucially, no connecting door. The speed and smoothness of that switch impressed me.
The rooms are luxurious and thoughtfully appointed, perfectly continuing that English country home vibe. As you’d expect, the finest Frette linens dress the bed, which looks so impeccably made it almost feels wrong to mess it up.
The bathrooms are spa-like, as you’d expect, with all the trimmings of luxury: plush towels, high-end toiletries, and televisions discreetly built into the mirrors—for those who simply must catch the news while brushing their teeth.
Technology here is quietly impressive, with high-speed internet, one-touch mood lighting, and Bang & Olufsen TV and portable speaker—set thoughtfully at a volume that keeps the peace with your terrace neighbours.
Turndown service arrived with plush slippers, elegant bedside footmats, and a homemade cookie—an understated indulgence.
The Facilities 9/10
Once you’ve claimed your spot in this exclusive little world, it’s time to wander. The hotel sits on twelve acres of gardens dotted with 23 bungalows—perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bit of quiet exploration.
There’s Bar Nineteen12, where the cocktails come with a side of California sunset and some laid-back tunes. Then there’s the Polo Lounge, the legendary Hollywood dining room that’s been playing host to deals, gossip, and the odd starlet for decades. If you feel like burning off last night’s indulgences, the fitness room is ready and waiting. Or, if you’d rather embrace the downtime fully, the spa offers a selection of high-end treatments to help you forget the outside world altogether.
The pool here is more than just a pool — it’s a proper destination with a touch of Hollywood history. Opened in 1914, this iconic lagoon has seen legends like Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable basking under the California sun. The Cabana Cafe is perfectly placed for snacks and drinks, just a few steps from your lounger shaded by a signature banana leaf umbrella. If you’re after privacy and exclusivity, the cabanas are practically mini hotel rooms. Usually, I’m not one to park myself poolside all day, but this was one spot I genuinely didn’t want to leave.
If you’re an early riser craving a caffeine fix, the Fountain Coffee Room serves up a solid selection of coffee, teas, pastries, and fresh fruit to get your day started.
The Service 10/10
Service was impeccable and discreet from the moment the car door opened on arrival right through to check-out. Everywhere you went, smiling staff were genuinely helpful—this sprawling property clearly trains its team well. Ask for directions and someone will drop everything to personally escort you.
Check-out, however, was a different story. Not a word about whether I enjoyed my stay, no hopes expressed for a return visit, not even a simple goodbye or “have a good day.” The promised folio email never arrived either. It felt like, once you stop being a paying guest, you’re instantly forgotten. Still, that was the only blot on an otherwise flawless service experience—perhaps just an unlucky exception.
The Dining 10/10
Dining here comes with a clear dress code and a strict no-camera policy. It’s all about immersing yourself in the experience—not broadcasting it live on FaceTime.
Bar Nineteen12 knows its way around a Martini, and its picturesque terrace quickly became my go-to spot for sunset cocktails.
The Polo Lounge is a Hollywood icon for good reason. With private alcoves and cozy booths perfect for discreet chats, the attentive service and solid food keep guests coming back. Don’t miss the soufflé—it’s worth every penny, even if you’re sceptical.
Breakfast on the Polo Lounge’s outdoor terrace feels like a Tuscan garden escape—only with a distinctly Hollywood twist. Around you, A-list celebrities casually pitch ideas and exchange smooches with producers and directors, making for a front-row seat to Tinseltown’s daily drama.
The Cabana Cafe opens at 10 a.m., serving an all-day breakfast menu perfect for lingering poolside. The star attraction? A poolside Baked Alaska—an extravagant, show-stopping dessert that’s as rare as it is indulgent. It’s a lavish nod to old Hollywood glamour, turning a simple pool day into a truly memorable occasion.
The Attention to Detail 10/10
Pretty much as good as it gets.
The Good, Bad and Ugly
Worth it? Absolutely. It’s pricey, but a stay here is a rare indulgence I’d gladly repeat—time and time again.
Stay here for an escape from the outside world—a rare chance to step into old Hollywood glamour and soak up a timeless luxury that feels utterly exclusive.
Don’t stay here for sleek modern design, Instagram-ready dining, or loud pool parties
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Luxury Reviews Says 9/10
Experience timeless Old Hollywood glamour with impeccable service. Step back into the golden age of the silver screen—who might you find sharing your breakfast at this iconic retreat?
The Hotel
Built in 1912, this Mediterranean-style oasis is one of the most iconic hotels in the world. Affectionately known as The Pink Palace, it’s less a hotel and more a living archive of Hollywood royalty. Fred Astaire once read The Hollywood Reporter by the pool. Lucille Ball had her breakfast rituals at the Fountain Coffee Room. Howard Hughes commandeered not one but six of the bungalows. And Elizabeth Taylor? She honeymooned here—six times out of eight.
As with all ultra-luxury stays, it’s worth booking through a Virtuoso-affiliated travel advisor likePropeller Travel. Perks often include upgrades, resort credit, and breakfast for two—a particularly welcome addition when room service eggs come with Beverly Hills pricing.
This doesn’t feel like checking into a sprawling, soulless corporate hotel. Instead, you’re stepping into an exclusive club—where you’re not just a guest, but a welcomed member with a truly special host.
The Vibe and Who are You Likely to See There?
The hotel feels like a grand English country house—if that country house happened to be wrapped in five and a half miles of banana leaf wallpaper. Step inside, and the outside world fades away, replaced by an intoxicating escape into the realm of Hollywood royalty.
Celebrity sightings here are so frequent, they quickly become part of the backdrop. A strict ‘no camera’ policy in many areas helps keep the stars comfortable—and keeps you feeling like you’ve stepped onto a real-life movie set.
The First Impression 10/10
The glamour begins before you even step inside. Tucked discreetly behind a veil of towering palms on Sunset Boulevard, The Beverly Hills Hotel reveals itself with cinematic flair. The sweeping driveway curves dramatically to that iconic entrance—where a plush red carpet rolls from curb to lobby. Within moments, the car was flanked by bellhops in trimmed livery, greeting us with polished warmth and a kind of synchronized efficiency usually reserved for film premieres.
Before we knew it, we were gliding into the serene, softly lit glamour of the lobby. At the reception desk, the check-in was swift and discreet—our luggage already en route to the room with the kind of behind-the-scenes choreography this hotel is known for. There were no welcome drinks offered, but we were promptly shown to the charming vintage elevator and whisked away to our room, where the Hollywood nostalgia only deepened.
Traditional and luxurious with just the right dose of contemporary polish, The Beverly Hills Hotel has managed to preserve its old-school Hollywood glamour without slipping into nostalgia. The iconic red carpet entrance remains blissfully unchanged—and quite rightly so. Some things don’t need reinvention when they’re already timeless.
The Rooms 9/10
I do not like rooms with connecting doors. So when I spotted one on our balcony room, I immediately asked if there was an alternative. Within minutes, a bellhop arrived with a new key and escorted me to an upgraded room—complete with a spacious terrace and, crucially, no connecting door. The speed and smoothness of that switch impressed me.
The rooms are luxurious and thoughtfully appointed, perfectly continuing that English country home vibe. As you’d expect, the finest Frette linens dress the bed, which looks so impeccably made it almost feels wrong to mess it up.
The bathrooms are spa-like, as you’d expect, with all the trimmings of luxury: plush towels, high-end toiletries, and televisions discreetly built into the mirrors—for those who simply must catch the news while brushing their teeth.
Technology here is quietly impressive, with high-speed internet, one-touch mood lighting, and Bang & Olufsen TV and portable speaker—set thoughtfully at a volume that keeps the peace with your terrace neighbours.
Turndown service arrived with plush slippers, elegant bedside footmats, and a homemade cookie—an understated indulgence.
The Facilities 9/10
Once you’ve claimed your spot in this exclusive little world, it’s time to wander. The hotel sits on twelve acres of gardens dotted with 23 bungalows—perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bit of quiet exploration.
There’s Bar Nineteen12, where the cocktails come with a side of California sunset and some laid-back tunes. Then there’s the Polo Lounge, the legendary Hollywood dining room that’s been playing host to deals, gossip, and the odd starlet for decades. If you feel like burning off last night’s indulgences, the fitness room is ready and waiting. Or, if you’d rather embrace the downtime fully, the spa offers a selection of high-end treatments to help you forget the outside world altogether.
The pool here is more than just a pool — it’s a proper destination with a touch of Hollywood history. Opened in 1914, this iconic lagoon has seen legends like Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable basking under the California sun. The Cabana Cafe is perfectly placed for snacks and drinks, just a few steps from your lounger shaded by a signature banana leaf umbrella. If you’re after privacy and exclusivity, the cabanas are practically mini hotel rooms. Usually, I’m not one to park myself poolside all day, but this was one spot I genuinely didn’t want to leave.
If you’re an early riser craving a caffeine fix, the Fountain Coffee Room serves up a solid selection of coffee, teas, pastries, and fresh fruit to get your day started.
The Service 10/10
Service was impeccable and discreet from the moment the car door opened on arrival right through to check-out. Everywhere you went, smiling staff were genuinely helpful—this sprawling property clearly trains its team well. Ask for directions and someone will drop everything to personally escort you.
Check-out, however, was a different story. Not a word about whether I enjoyed my stay, no hopes expressed for a return visit, not even a simple goodbye or “have a good day.” The promised folio email never arrived either. It felt like, once you stop being a paying guest, you’re instantly forgotten. Still, that was the only blot on an otherwise flawless service experience—perhaps just an unlucky exception.
The Dining 10/10
Dining here comes with a clear dress code and a strict no-camera policy. It’s all about immersing yourself in the experience—not broadcasting it live on FaceTime.
Bar Nineteen12 knows its way around a Martini, and its picturesque terrace quickly became my go-to spot for sunset cocktails.
The Polo Lounge is a Hollywood icon for good reason. With private alcoves and cozy booths perfect for discreet chats, the attentive service and solid food keep guests coming back. Don’t miss the soufflé—it’s worth every penny, even if you’re sceptical.
Breakfast on the Polo Lounge’s outdoor terrace feels like a Tuscan garden escape—only with a distinctly Hollywood twist. Around you, A-list celebrities casually pitch ideas and exchange smooches with producers and directors, making for a front-row seat to Tinseltown’s daily drama.
The Cabana Cafe opens at 10 a.m., serving an all-day breakfast menu perfect for lingering poolside. The star attraction? A poolside Baked Alaska—an extravagant, show-stopping dessert that’s as rare as it is indulgent. It’s a lavish nod to old Hollywood glamour, turning a simple pool day into a truly memorable occasion.
The Attention to Detail 10/10
Pretty much as good as it gets.
The Good, Bad and Ugly
Worth it? Absolutely. It’s pricey, but a stay here is a rare indulgence I’d gladly repeat—time and time again.
Stay here for an escape from the outside world—a rare chance to step into old Hollywood glamour and soak up a timeless luxury that feels utterly exclusive.
Don’t stay here for sleek modern design, Instagram-ready dining, or loud pool parties
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