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Where Bespoke Scents Meet Sophisticated Design
An Adults-Only Luxury Getaway at Castle Hot Springs, Arizona
Housed in a former perfume factory, this family-owned boutique hotel situated away from the main drag of Milan is a treat for the senses, from the fragrant courtyard with its magnolia and rose bush balm to the sleek suites that each feature a signature fragrance. Even the cocktails at the hotel bar are infused with aromatics. And if the soothing scents don’t transport you to cloud nine, surely the hotel’s location on a quiet street in the artsy neighborhood of Tortona will offer you the relaxing and luxurious retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city (but within walking distance to main attractions) that you seek. Here’s my honest review.
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Who should you bring?
Sipping a cappuccino in the beautiful courtyard, unwinding in the luxury spa that’s made for two, a trip to the perfume laboratory downstairs…the Magna Pars is the ideal getaway for couples. But it’s also a great choice for families who want access to everything Milan has to offer but prefer to steer clear of the throngs of tourists.
What’s the food like?
Liquidambar (named after a species of tree found in the hotel’s garden) is a chic spot for sipping one (or two) of the hotel’s many scented signature cocktails, while Da Noi restaurant offers Italian cuisine with an olfactory experience (we ate out during our stay but we hear that the seafood—the grouper carpaccio in particular–is heavenly). The downstairs restaurant is also where the included breakfast is served with no shortage of fruit, delicious pastries, freshly squeezed juices, cheeses and meats.
Did you get a good night’s sleep?
You just know that any hotel that offers a pillow menu is serious about their guests getting their Zzz’s. Magna Pars L’Hotel à Parfum offers five options, including sense (Myform memory) and sun (hypoallergenic) pillows. The black out curtains coupled with the Italian linens and hand selected pillows made for an incredible night’s slumber.
What amenities are available?
The hotel has a gym, spa and rooftop bar (all of which were sadly under maintenance during our stay). Worth knowing about the spa, however, is that it is exclusively for guests and can only accommodate two people (reservations required). The other main attraction of this hotel is the LabSolue Perfume Laboratory where the fragrances you find throughout the hotel can be purchased in the gift shop.
What was your favorite part?
I really enjoyed the location of this boutique hotel. It was just a short walk to the canals of the Navigli district, which is a lively place to get an aperitivo, and an excellent base to explore the many neighborhoods of Milan (plus, a great way to get your daily steps in!).
Know before you go:
The hotel is a 30-minute walk to the center of the city where the iconic Duomo is located. Parking is also available for a nightly fee.
book it
Accommodation options:
Suites
Price:
Prices start from $431 per night on a Bed & Breakfast basis
Location:
Milan, Italy
Property:
Magna Pars L’Hotel à Parfum
Basics
Details
Two shimmering outdoor pools offer opportunities for relaxation and activity—one is a heated infinity pool with a view of Lake Garda while the other is a stand-alone pool kept at cooler temperatures to encourage laps and other exercise.
Yoga, meditation and breathwork sessions can all be add-ons. Outside of the hotel, you can take a hike or e-bike along the hills, go sailing on the lake or take an excursion on a Vespa or Fiat 500 down Torri del Benaco.
Top-notch: The service was beyond what you’d expect from a five-star hotel. From the around-the-clock concierge that can help you book those hard-to-get reservations and private tours to 24-hour laundry/drycleaning and in-room dining, the Four Seasons is known ‘round the world for their attention to detail. Expect twice-daily housekeeping, free water in-room and nightly turndown service (complete with slippers and a mat to wipe your feet placed next to the bed).
What’s the food like?
Magna Pars L’Hotel à Parfum