Rome’s Eternal Charm: A Glimpse of Opulence from the De La Ville Suite

As an incandescent orange sun descends beyond the ancient skyline of Rome, casting a warm, ethereal glow upon the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica, a palpable sense of magic permeates the air. While the majority of the city’s visitors jostle for prime positions at crowded viewpoints – be it a trendy rooftop bar or a picturesque public garden, often discovered through viral social media trends or niche Substack newsletters – my experience unfolds in a realm of serene exclusivity. Perched on a private terrace, I survey the labyrinthine rooftops of the Eternal City, a breathtaking panorama unfolding before me, entirely unmarred by the throngs below. The gentle clinking of ice accompanies my sips of a meticulously crafted Sky Spritz, a masterpiece by mixology director Simone Di Serio, prepared at a chic, mobile bar. My evening’s libation journey continues with a mezcal margarita, artfully balanced with a subtle hint of spice, accompanied by a selection of briny olives and the satisfying crunch of smoked almonds.

This elevated sanctuary is none other than the sprawling rooftop terrace of the De La Ville Suite, the crown jewel of Rocco Forte’s esteemed Hotel De La Ville. This is not merely a suite; it is an experience, a testament to unparalleled luxury and breathtaking vistas. The panoramic view before me is nothing short of awe-inspiring, a near 360-degree sweep that captures the essence of Rome. This particular terrace is one of four outdoor havens adorning the penthouse, with an additional private retreat accessible directly from my top-floor bedroom, and further extensions connected to the two suites located on the floor below. For those seeking the ultimate indulgence, booking all three suites in conjunction transforms them into the colossal De La Ville Penthouse. This magnificent, two-floor residence spans an impressive 3,853 square feet and boasts six sumptuous bedrooms, arguably positioning it as one of the most coveted accommodations in the entire city.

While this exceptional suite configuration made its grand debut in the spring, the Hotel De La Ville itself opened its doors in 2020. Its nascent years were marked by a somewhat turbulent, albeit understandable, cycle of openings and closings, a direct consequence of the global COVID-19 pandemic. As the "little sister" to the renowned Hotel De Russie, which has long served as Rocco Forte’s flagship property and a magnet for the international elite, Hotel De La Ville, despite its opulent setting, maintains a more understated elegance. Its strategic location, mere steps away from the iconic Spanish Steps and the timeless allure of the Trevi Fountain, belies its sophisticated discretion. Indeed, the hotel’s entrance, while grand, is designed with a certain subtlety, and I’ve learned that a discreet network of hidden corridors and passages exists behind its walls, catering to the privacy of its high-profile clientele.

The ascent to the De La Ville Suite is an experience in itself, with a dedicated elevator whisking guests directly to their private haven, bypassing any need for navigating through public corridors. The hotel’s interior design narrative, while much of the Rocco Forte portfolio is shaped by the discerning eye of Olga Polizzi, director of design and sister to the founder, saw Italian architect Tommaso Ziffer bring his unique vision to Hotel De La Ville. The penthouse, mirroring the hotel’s overarching aesthetic, presents a captivating juxtaposition of styles. There are moments of exuberant maximalism, evident in the bold color palettes and grand neoclassical flourishes, complemented by faux Roman busts and vintage furnishings within the drawing room and lounge areas. Transitioning from this, the bedroom embraces a more masculine Art Deco sensibility. Yet, amidst this grandeur, an atmosphere of relaxed welcome prevails. The imposing mustard velvet chaise longue, for instance, offers an unexpected level of comfort, and the state-of-the-art espresso machine is refreshingly straightforward to operate.

Although the allure of the terraces is undeniable, the indoor spaces within the penthouse are equally impressive. Occupying the entire penthouse provides not only six bedrooms but also three distinct living rooms, a formal dining room, a well-equipped kitchenette, a dedicated study, six bathrooms, and an additional two guest bathrooms. A sweeping marble staircase, a masterpiece of design, elegantly connects these various levels, punctuated by a double-height window that maximizes the breathtaking views. The amenities are as plentiful as they are thoughtful: complimentary mini-bars generously stocked to facilitate an impromptu cocktail hour; bookshelves laden with a curated selection ranging from classic novels to indispensable design bibles; and delectable baked treats that mysteriously appear, seemingly after every brief departure from the suite.

For those who choose to savor their inaugural Roman sunset from the unparalleled privacy of their own terrace, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, Cielo, beckons for their second evening’s culinary exploration. The vista from Cielo is remarkably similar to that from the penthouse, offering a near-identical panorama, albeit with a slightly less expansive reach. The ambiance here is one of pure, unadulterated romance. Fulvio Pierangelini, Rocco Forte’s celebrated culinary creative director, imbues traditional Italian dishes with his signature innovative touch, presenting a menu that is both creative and deeply indulgent. Delicate zucchini flowers, bathed in a rich tomato sauce, are a testament to his artistry. Seared tuna, elegantly dressed in a house-made tuna sauce – a clever reimagining of the classic beef tonnato – offers a delightful surprise. And the carbonara ravioli, a novel interpretation of one of Rome’s most iconic pasta dishes, is a revelation. The liberal application of peppery olive oil and a generous hand with Parmesan cheese elevate every bite.

The accompanying Champagne list is nothing short of comprehensive, thoughtfully including local sparkling wines alongside international favorites. For red wine aficionados, a Brunello is the recommended accompaniment. Post-dinner, the Cielo bar invites guests to linger over creative cocktails, further enhanced by the captivating city lights. While Cielo undoubtedly stands as the gastronomic heart of the hotel, the breakfast experience deserves special commendation. Served within an enchanting enclosed courtyard, it offers an extensive buffet, including the hotel’s signature cream bun, affectionately known as "the maritozzi." While breakfast can be enjoyed on the suite’s terrace, opting for this private dining experience means foregoing the delights of the buffet. A particular highlight is the coffee. Many hotels falter in this regard, but Hotel De La Ville excels, serving flat whites that are consistently strong, smooth, and devoid of any bitterness. The exquisite latte art is an added bonus that elevates the morning ritual.

Rocco Forte’s commitment to family extends to its wellness offerings, with Irene Forte, the middle daughter, spearheading the group’s wellness initiatives through her eponymous skincare brand. Her siblings, Lydia and Charles, are also integral to the business. The Irene Forte Spa, nestled discreetly below ground, features five treatment rooms, a soothing saltwater hydro pool, and a compact, yet well-equipped, gym, complete with the option of a personal trainer. Guests will also discover Irene Forte’s luxurious products in their suites, featuring delicate scents of prickly pear, almond, pistachio, and apricot – fragrances that are subtly sweet and refreshingly natural.

When ensconced in a suite as magnificent as the De La Ville, the greatest challenge is often the temptation to simply remain within its luxurious embrace. The Hotel De La Ville team, anticipating this very dilemma, has curated an exclusive "Above and Beyond" program, specifically designed for suite guests, coinciding with the penthouse’s launch. This bespoke experiential offering, developed in partnership with Imago Artis Travel, a Rome-based operator specializing in uncovering Italy’s hidden cultural treasures, unlocks a world of exclusive access. Imagine attending a cocktail soiree within the opulent confines of a private aristocratic palazzo, witnessing the unveiling of a clandestine underground fresco, or exploring a secret garden nestled within a former residential enclave. These are not mere excursions; they are invitations into the heart of Roman exclusivity.

Of course, the timeless attractions of Rome remain within easy reach. The hotel’s prime location places guests moments away from the sun-drenched Spanish Steps and the fashionable shopping district they overlook. For moments of tranquility, the oasis-like Villa Borghese park offers a welcome respite just behind the hotel. While a private golf buggy tour might seem a touch cliché, it is an undeniably effective and enjoyable way to absorb the city’s iconic sights en masse, enhanced by the insights of an expert guide. The hotel’s exceptionally well-connected concierge service stands ready to arrange virtually any experience imaginable, ensuring that every desire is met with seamless efficiency and unparalleled grace.