Located high on First Hill, this extravagant boutique, dating back to 1909, was built to resemble an Italian Villa. Besides its dramatic circular driveway encircling a palm-shaded fountain, there is little else Mediterranean about it. Instead, an old-world elegance and clubby sophistication stands out as a rarity among Seattle's hotels. Dark-wood paneling, an old-fashioned lobby lounge with handsome décor, antiques, and a crackling fireplace, make a cocktail before dinner a necessity. Of the many pleasant perks awaiting you at this favored Seattle home stay, one of the best is the Hunt Club - an award-winning restaurant that mixes Pacific Northwest-style cuisine with Mediterranean influences using organic and seasonal ingredients. Recently renovated rooms match the superior elegance of the rest of the hotel. More than half of the 76 units are suites yet all are reasonably spacious, many with impressive views of downtown Seattle and Puget Sound (ask for one of the north- or west-facing rooms). Rooms are classy and cozy with oversized beds draped in 400 thread-count Egyptian linens and allergy-free down comforters, white-and-gray Italian marble bathrooms, a handsome desk and chair, a full-length mirror, and elegant European as well as Asian accents. Rich blues and burgundies and dark carpeting are complimented by the light curtains, large windows, and white bedding. In-room amenities include DirectTV with movie channels, high-speed internet access, fax, scanner, color printer, and a serious sound system with ten digital satellite stations and a 3-disc CD changer. For an all-out extravagant night, big spenders can splurge on the magnificent top-floor penthouse, complete with grand piano, hot tub, outdoor patio, and, arguably, one of the best views in the city.
900 Madison St.; Seattle, WA; 800-426-1265; www.hotelsorrento.com
Smart Splurge
Great Value
