Belle Epoque

Frommer's Review

In 1989 an interconnected pair of historic Bern medieval houses were gutted, renovated, and turned into this small scale boutique-style gem of a hotel. Throughout, its decor celebrates and promotes the Teutonic interpretation of Art Nouveau (Jugendstil). Each of the bedrooms is outfitted with jewel-toned colors, big windows, turn-of-the-20th-century furniture and lighting fixtures, and unusual antique paintings and engravings. Minibars and closets are artfully concealed within trompe l'oeil replicas of steamer trunks, in a style that's in pleasing contrast to bathrooms that are immaculately tiled (some have Jacuzzis) and very modern, with free condoms on offer. Public rooms are somewhat cramped but beautifully decorated and convivial. They include a cozy bar whose cafe tables extend out under the 17th-century arcades in front.

Facilities:
Restaurant; bar; room service; babysitting; laundry service/dry cleaning; nonsmoking rooms

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.