Rocco Forte Augustine Hotel. One of The Very Best Prague Hotels
This is a review of the stunning Rocco Forte Augustine Hotel. One of The Very Best Prague Hotels!
Based on an initial brief visit to The Augustine for a flying work visit, I decided to return for an Easter long weekend as I was so struck with the place – and also (of course) how beautiful Prague was and how I needed to explore it more.
So how did the hotel rate after spending 3 nights there?
Overall good, though there are some flaws that were slightly irritating for such an up-market hotel. They were though all related to housekeeping issues. Every day we were there we had to call housekeeping by late afternoon as our room had not been cleaned, and in the evening (as we had a “do not disturb” on the door) we got a card under the door which is fine..but both times it was a notice that told us our laundry had been put in the cupboard (so clearly the wrong sign). Then there were a few things not quite right (like the plug in the bath that has a control that did not work that was never noted or attended to despite very obviously not working).
But other than that, the hotel and service is cheerful, efficient and welcoming – with both the door staff and restaurant staff remembering your name and preferences. A great touch.
On this trip we were in room 220, which like my last room in the other building on 4th floor, was also in the roof so had just one small window in the bedroom and one in the bathroom. While the rooms are all stunning and very beautiful (designed apparently by Rocco Forte’s sister Olga Pollizzi), I would recommend trying to get a room that has more regular windows as if you spend time in the room it can feel a bit oppressive.
I have videos of both the rooms I stayed in, the room 220 being a “classic king” and the other a superior room. While both are striking the superior room was larger and had more features (like the Bose iPod speaker docking station). The videos are on YouTube, Tripadvisor and on the blog posting.
There is only wired internet access in the room, which is unusual these days, but if you buy wired access you can get wireless in the public areas on the ground floor within that rate.
The food in the restaurant (The Monastery) is outstanding, and we ate in there quite a few times as it is a lovely space, great service and amazing food. Highly recommended.
The bar (Tom’s Bar) is a nice room with murals on the ceiling and used to be the Monastery dining room. It always seems very quiet though, and while there is a good choice of cocktails they were not great (failing in my view to make a good mojito…)
I was surprised the hotel did not acknowledge I had stayed there before, as on the last trip they had made a big deal after the stay sending a survey and asking for feedback – and with technology this is a missed trick.
The hotel is in a brilliant location, as is very easy walking distance to Charles Bridge, the Palace and Lesser Town square where many trams pass through.
The gym in the basement is well equipped and a decent size. The spa seemed expensive.
A lovely hotel. Very classy and you feel special staying there.
Here is my initial review based on that first visit: The Rocco Forte chain owns the beautiful hotel called The Augustine in Prague.
I had been booked in there for just one night for a work meeting, and was so impressed with the look and style of the hotel and the amazing friendly, efficient and thorough service that on return home I booked in for a long weekend.
The building is interesting and unusual, as it is a collection of around 8 different building, including an old monastery, that has been connected and modelled into one hotel. This means there are unusual shapes and features, but they have made it all work. And all with great style. The fixtures, furniture and design is modern and at times unusual.
The hotel feels quiet and unrushed, and the service at all levels and across all areas is fantastic. With much of the staff remembering your name, which is something that does not happen too often these days.
My room was on the 4th floor which is in the roof, with a long passage way with big beams. The room was very large and very plush. It had wooden floors in the bedroom and then marble titled floor (with under floor heating) in the bathroom. They told me that no room is the same, and so each has individual features and styling. The room also has many features and added extras, like the Bose iPod speakers. The bed is huge and very comfortable.
There is a 24 hour gym and spa.
There are a few bars and a restaurant, which serves most of the day. The menu was diverse and tasty, with excellent service.
I am very much looking forward to going back!
Watch video of the 2 rooms I have stayed in on YouTube (click here),