06/14/04

Turrets, teatime, European art and feather bedding bring fairy tales to life in a storybook hotel.

by Contributor

The Scene
Awash in pink, lavender and gold--and complete with turrets, spires and rooftop terraces--this medieval-styled hotel fits right into the theme frenzy that is Orlando's hotel scene. Guests are greeted in the lobby with mosaic-tile murals, arched doorways, Renaissance-era music and piped in nature sounds, for what's just the beginning of a multi-layered storybook affair.

The Details
Dark wood elevators and dimly lit corridors lead to rooms that are fairly basic but do include feather beds. This is the chain's most highly acclaimed hotel, both for its decor and for Cafe Tu Tu Tango, a popular yet sophisticated hangout featuring working artists, good music and food. Homespun folklore delights children in the form of a creature mascot who roams the "castle". And parents enjoy the four-course meal offered at Vito's Chop House. The management has innovatively created fantasy-like packages and "royal" treatments, such as "King for a Day," where guests can enjoy a free movie and complimentary breakfast in bed.