After passing through the pretty porch, we were a bit disappointed with the initial appearance of the premises. Guests are received into an austere paved courtyard where, in the interest of creating a good first impression, a bit more character would not go amiss. However, once you are in the entrance hall, the place starts to work its magic. It is a small space where the charm resides in an uncluttered, stylish decor, the light fittings on the walls, and the chandelier recess in the ceiling. A wooden door leads through into the 'Barego', a bar glittering with countless lights, that is open from 10:00am until 1:00am. It is decorated in a modern style and has won the prize for the best Martini in the whole of the Czech Republic.
It is almost impossible not to be bowled over by the general facilities provided by the hotel. It opened in 2006 in a collection of buildings set around a cloister garden, which some of the rooms look out over. The communal areas are spacious and have walls made of stone which lead your eyes to discover the superb arched ceilings and intimate little recesses. However, the delicate decorative style gets a bit lost in these large spaces, making them feel rather austere and unwelcoming. In the basement, there is a large and well equipped gym that is open from 6:00am until 10:00pm. The spa, which is open from 10:00am until 10:30pm, must be one of the most successful in the Czech Republic. There is even a wine cellar in a room in the basement with stone walls and an arched ceiling where you can sample some great vintages around the big wooden table.