Hotel de Russie celebrates its twenty-fifth anniversary by honouring the hallmarks that define its legacy – a deep-rooted sense of history, unmistakable style, and the warm hospitality for which Rocco Forte Hotels is renowned. These distinctive elements have established the hotel as a veritable Roman landmark on the international stage. This milestone marks not only the evolution of an iconic property on Via del Babuino but also its enduring bond with the famed Secret Garden and the hotel’s status as a destination of choice for international guests seeking a memorable Roman stay.
Since opening 25 years ago, Hotel de Russie has continued to evolve while staying true to its heritage, committed to crafting moments that are cherished and passed down from one generation to the next.
Hotel de Russie’s twenty-fifth anniversary marks the beginning of a new chapter, following the completion of an ambitious renovation project backed by a €30 million investment. This sweeping redesign encompassed all communal areas, suites and guest rooms, culminating in the refurbishment of the De Russie Spa, which launched on 10th June.
The renovation of Hotel de Russie – led by the creative flair of Lady Olga Polizzi,Vice President and Design Director of Rocco Forte Hotels, who co-founded the group in 1995 with her brotherSir Rocco Forte – has encompassed:
De Russie Spa, Wellness In The Heart Of The Eternal City | The hotel’s wellness offering is closely tied to its lush green spaces, from the herbarium to the tranquil communal areas providing guests a serene environment in which to unwind. The five treatment rooms, which include two couples’ suites, are designed in soothing palettes in natural, earthy tones. Using state-of-the-art technology, expert therapists carry out holistic treatments designed to restore balance, enhance beauty and promote overall well-being. These therapies incorporate products from three prestigious skincare brands: Irene Forte Skincare, SkinCeuticals, and Swiss Perfection. The sauna, steam room and salt-water pool with hydromassage jets feature soothing shades of blue – a homage to Rome’s blue skies.
Among the latest additions is the Forte Vita Bar, an intimate beauty bar that caters to every beauty need, offering highly effective express facial treatments using Irene Forte Skincare products, including:
Lyma Laser Pro | A non-invasive, clinic-grade laser technology that stimulates deep cellular regeneration, targeting fine lines, pigmentation, and scarring for smoother, more radiant skin in twenty minutes;
Micro Current, Led and Radiofrequency | A powerful Tri Energy Technology that sculpts, lifts, and tightens skin, boosting collagen and elasticity for a firmer, more youthful complexion in twenty minutes;
Oxygen | A burst of oxygen to hydrate, refresh, and revitalise the skin, leaving it plump, dewy, and glowing in five minutes.
In addition to facial treatments, Forte Vita Bar features a nail bar and offers hairdressing services complemented by indulgent Hair Spa rituals.
The Lobby Area, blending historical and design elements | Located in the hotel’s early 19th century palazzo, the lobby features a warm and refined design, with historical features including a bas-relief by sculptor Pietro Monti depicting Archangel Gabriel.
The Art Of Living | The rooms and suites have been extensively renovated, with the Nijinsky Suite standing out as a striking example. This private residence lies at the heart of the hotel, occupying over 210 square metres. The room opens onto an expansive 240-square-metre private terrace, offering breathtaking views of the city rooftops and leafy Villa Borghese.
“Paradise on earth”: The Secret Garden | Recent renovations also extended to the hotel’s Secret Garden, an artistic masterpiece that reflects the hotel’s strong architectural and natural heritage. Designed by architect Giuseppe Valadier, the garden was famously described as “paradise on earth” by French poet Jean Cocteau during his stay in 1917. As part of the four-year restoration project, the garden’s original layout was meticulously revived. Dramatic new lighting was added along with a thoughtfully curated selection of plants that harmoniously complement the existing floral varieties.
Bar Stravinskij | Located in Piazzetta Valadier, at the bottom of the Secret Garden, Bar Stravinskij features a striking pergola design inspired by the work of Swiss sculptor Alberto Giacometti. The bar serves signature cocktails expertly crafted by world-renowned bartender Salvatore Calabrese and resident bar manager Mattia Capezzuoli.
