Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow

The lobby of the Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow has an Old-World splendor rarely seen in modern hotels. The lobby floors are made of polished marble with flowery details, and the ceiling has detailed molding. It's easy to envision a countess balancing a cigarette holder on her fingertips as she descends the majestic, curving staircase from the mezzanine to the ground floor. Once at the end of the wrought-iron banisters, she would likely flip a mink stole over her shoulder before exiting through the brass-frame doors. The restaurants, with their dark wood tables and velvet-backed chairs, aren't quite as cinematic, but still exude the eminence of a state room -- with service to match. Refurbished in 2012, the hotel offers board rooms with panoramic Kremlin views, and tends to draw a crowd of refined business travelers.

The Zamoskvorechye section of Moscow was first built up in the 14th century and home to tanners, royal garden attendants, and court translators. Centuries later, a mix of historic baroque churches can be found in the district as well as homes that exemplify 18th- and 19th-century architecture. The location of the Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow makes it a 15- to 20-minute walk to some of the most historic destinations in the city, including the Kremlin (20 minutes on foot), Red Square (15 minutes), and St. Basil’s Cathedral (14 minutes). The hotel's neighboring streets have a mixture of night clubs, banks, and restaurants. The city's airport is a 10-minute drive without traffic, but that's a rare occasion, and often gridlock can make the drive 20 or 30 minutes.

The interior designer for Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow has carefully picked contemporary room furnishings that display a reverence for the building's history, which dates back to 1898. The intricate molding remains a notable design element on the ceiling and walls. The nightstands, armchairs, beds, dressers, and cabinets all appear to be recent interpretations of furniture that could have been in a hotel in the early- to mid-20th century. But there are plenty of modern perks: free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, safes, coffeemakers, iPod docks, and minibars. The spacious bathrooms have marble floors and counters and 21st-century fittings, complete with shower/tub combos and bidets. As expected, Suites have much more seating area, separate soaking tubs, and better views than the Superior Rooms, though Deluxe Rooms also have lounge areas, and most have views of the Kremlin, Red Square, or city skyline. 

For guests who need a little extra pampering to go with their Victorian grandeur, the Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow spa offers facials, body wraps, and massages and includes an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and juice bar. An on-site Beauty Center styles hair, nails, and makeup. The Baltschug Grill serves up views of St. Basil's Cathedral and a pricey combination of Nordic, Russian, and Italian cuisine. A breakfast buffet is available for a fee. The Lobby Lounge and Café Kranzler both offer drinks and light fare. Event planners can utilize one of the 12 event spaces that range in size from boardroom to ballroom, and most have great views. Business travelers are able to utilize fax and photocopying services.