Ljubljana is affectionally called the city of love.
And why shouldn’t it be when it is literally called “the beloved” in Slovenian language? Famous for the beautiful baroque architecture throughout the city, Ljubljana’s charisma will surely knock you off your feet.
Influential people from all over the world has sojourned here to see its elegance in real life. The hotel that they favored? None other than the most prestigious in the city – Grand Hotel Union which was built in 1905 after designs by Josip Vancaš.
Located steps away from Prešeren Square, the Triple Bridge, Ljubljana Castle and other important monuments that have made Ljubljana remarkable, I had the chance to stay here not so long ago.
Spring is the perfect time to explore the sublime surroundings that besiege the historic old town and, sure enough, I was charmed entirely by it.
We arrived late from our flight and was picked up by car straight from the airport via a cordial car service from Grand Hotel Union.
The staff was gracious in their welcome and even prepared a plate of fruits in the suite. What a delightful gesture that would surely be appreciated by any guest!
After a peaceful night’s sleep, I woke up to discover the most mesmerizing view right in my private balcony. The majestic Ljubljana castle was spectacularly perched on a hill. What a lovely sight to see this grandeur in the comforts of my own room!
“The hotel’s Art Nouveau style details were bursting in beauty.”
The scene at breakfast was energizing. A stimulating spread was laid out for all guests to take in a marvelous, buffet-style setting.
Brunch is my favorite meal of the day and I ordered additional servings of poached eggs to keep me reinvigorated throughout the day. I had a second helping from the breakfast buffet because it was too tempting not to!
Touring the Grand Hotel Union was like taking a step back in time. Exploring t its alluring history, I learned that it was historically the first modern hotel in Ljubljana.
It was a breathtaking and fascinating building. Its Art Nouveau style details were bursting in beauty. One surely couldn’t help but gaze in awe at its architectural wonder so sensationally preserved.
One of my favorite spots inside Grand Hotel Union is their top-floor Sense Wellness Spa that features their Penthouse pool, open terrace and greater views of Ljubljana castle. I love pampering and treating my body to an environment that offers revitalization. I spent a couple of hours just alternating between the sauna and the pool. The environment allowed me to truly be immersed in a holistic holiday.
It might be too much to call this hotel a bona fide star of Ljubljana but in truth, it legitimately was. I took film classes at university and couldn’t believe that renowned actor and director Orson Welles graced these very halls. Politicians such as Bill and Hillary Clinton also stayed here, as well as royalty in the likes of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. Even the Dalai Lama found his way to Ljubljana and chose to stopover at this very hotel.
I caught a glimpse of the iconic Grand Union Café at the hotel’s ground floor and I became aware why many aristocrats, artists, painters and writers also chose to stay here over the course of a century. There is something so classic, chic and inspirational about the ambiance here.
One could almost imagine the plethora of topics and conversations that intellectuals and artists would have exchanged at this very place all these years.
Unequivocally, the Grand Hotel Union is a trysting place to be when you visit Ljubljana. It offers an unbeatable location with brilliant rooms. The staff are attentive and acts benevolently towards all guests. I earnestly took pleasure in my stay here.
Look no further if you are looking for a dazzling hotel to luxuriate in while in Ljubljana. There is only one discernible supreme choice and that is no other than the Grand Hotel Union.
Sponsored by Grand Hotel Union | Miklošičeva cesta 1, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia | +386 1 308 12 70 | All views, posts and opinions shared are my own.
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