By: ANETTA NOWOSIELSKA
Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin continues to evolve with style and splendor in spades.
By all accounts, Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate casts a mythic spell in the German collective consciousness. Erected by King Frederick Wilhelm II of Prussia in 1791 to symbolize peace, it metamorphosed into a symbol of German triumphalism during Hitler’s regime. It witnessed the destruction of Communism, in part, by Ronald Reagan’s call, made at the gate’s feet, to tear down the Berlin Wall. Today, the Brandenburg Gate epitomizes Berlin’s reunification and the philosophical liberalism of its people. As a result of this mindset, flâneurs who stroll down Unter den Linden, the landmark-rich pedestrian mall that originates at the gate, often witness countless political demonstrations, performances and general ruckus that frequently go together with promenades of this caliber. At the center of this buzzing activity, Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin’s invisible shield of tranquility and sophistication oozes from the top of its green copper roof that matches the color of the charging horses atop the Brandenburg Gate and spills over to its front door guarded by a fleet of red coat wearing doormen.
Like the Brandenburg Gate, Hotel Adlon has witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in history. From hosting extravagant soirées of the Roaring Twenties to surviving the destruction of World War II, the Adlon has remained a resilient beacon of luxury amidst the changing tides of time. Established in 1907 to rival Europe’s grandest hotels, it swiftly became synonymous with opulence and prestige, drawing the likes of Charlie Chaplin, Marlene Dietrich, Albert Einstein, and Michael Jackson, who notoriously dangled his nine-month-old son out the window.
Much like Berlin, the hotel was severely damaged during World War II. It succumbed to destruction in the final days of the war, a result of a fire started by Russian soldiers tippling in the vast cellar, only to rise from its ashes in 1997 when it was restored to its former splendor. Today, Hotel Adlon’s old-world charm coexists with all the bells and whistles of contemporary amenities. Guests are accompanied by a spirit of refinement throughout their stay, from the moment of arrival in the grand lobby, which is adorned with coffered arched ceilings, marble floors and crystal chandeliers.
This amalgam is the hallmark of Brandenburg Gate Suites, which feature jaw-dropping views of the gate. Classic and timeless, with wood floors, traditional furnishings, plush coaches, and seated mirrored vanities, the aesthetic is tame yet flawless, the kind one would expect from a place that has appealed to both Barack Obama and Mick Jagger, a frequent guest. The marble bathrooms are generous, with separate rainfall showers, bathtubs, and Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries. Heads of state and luxury lovers will likely opt for the Royal Suite, where Queen Elizabeth II once stayed, which features a wood-burning fireplace and a grand piano.
When not enjoying the comforts of posh accommodations, guests’ onsite amusements include a culinary tour de force at Quarré, the French and German restaurant where schnitzel is the stuff of legends, and the outstanding two-MICHELIN-star Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, with Chef Reto Brändli at the helm. An afternoon tea served at the Lobby Lounge & Bar gets animated with live piano sessions, and Elephant Bar attracts the after-dinner cocktail and cigar aficionados. Well-being is taken seriously at Adlon Spa by Resense, one of Germany’s largest hotel spas spread over three levels. Rumor has it Penelope Cruz booked daily treatments during her stay here for the Berlinale Film Festival.
Unlike a trip to Paris or London, which inspire frequent revisits, a Berlin visit may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many. A stay at Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin could be a catalyst for revisiting Berlin many times over.
