Holyrood apartHOTEL

Surrounded by cobblestoned streets and buildings that look like a medieval Scottish village, the Holyrood stands apart, with a modern edifice, painted red, white, and blue. The interior is pair-down and modern, with lots of light and space in the rooms. There are plenty of simple but thoughtful touches at this hotel, which make an extended stay more homey for the families and business travelers who tend to come through. That said, public spaces lack a bit of personality. The lobby is narrow, with a few armchairs beside a large window, and a front desk that is staffed 24-hours a day. There is no bar, cafe, or gathering area for guests, and the atmosphere is more private than social. The architecture and decor are slightly industrial, but not unpleasant, with natural wood and matte metal throughout the hallways and staircases leading to units. While Scotland can be (picturesquely) overcast and rainy, the Holyrood offers a warm, cheerful retreat after a long day of sightseeing or work.

The Holyrood apartHOTEL is located in the historic center of Edinburgh, on a cobblestoned street surrounded by medieval buildings that feel like a trip back in time. It's just one block off the Royal Mile, accessible via a narrow side street. Holyroodhouse, home to the royal family, is a five-minute walk away. Also in the radius of a five-minute walk, guests will find plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars. The edge of Holyrood Park is five-minute walk, with the park's famed Arthur's Seat -- the highest point in Edinburgh -- about one mile away. Waverley Train Station is a 10-minute walk from the hotel. 

The Holyrood apartHOTEL is made up of Studio and Two-Bedroom Apartments with spacious, clean living and dining areas, full kitchens with dishwashers, and en suite washer/dryers. The decor is uncluttered and modern, with streamlined light wood furnishings and hardwood floors, and clean-lined black leather or brown fabric couches. Some have framed black-and-white prints decorating the pristine white walls. Bathrooms are done in pretty Italian tile, with up-to-date fixtures and either stall showers or shower/tub combos, but there isn't a lot of counter space; soaps and towels are provided. Bedroom closets are small, as well. Amenities include free tea, coffee, and milk; free dish and laundry detergent; flat-screen TVs, DVD players (and loaner DVDs), and safes; Two-Bedroom Apartments have stereo systems. The Executive option includes a welcome basket with breakfast snacks, as well as bathrobes, free parking, and newspapers.

The Holyrood apartHOTEL offers a breakfast basket filled with cereal, breads, cream cheese, yogurt, Scottish shortbread, or, upon request, Asian alternatives, for a surcharge. There's a small fitness center with several cardio machines, some free weights, and space for stretching; the gym has no windows or natural light. There is a computer station with a printer for guest use in a windowed corner. Wi-Fi is available for a fee (or free with direct bookings). Parking is also available for a fee. Advance reservations are highly recommended.