Description: Given that Zürich is an important financial centre, finding that many of its hotels are members of international chains that cater for business travellers on expense accounts is hardly shocking. One such place is the
Hotel Ascot, which elegantly avoids the clichéd and bland corporate style that is nowadays typical, and therefore easily exceeded the expectations that I had prior to staying there during my first trip to the city.
It is located in a pleasant area that is within reasonable walking distance of the Old Town, but which is close to both a railway station and tram stops as well. To be completely honest, the unattractive exterior gives a rather bad initial impression, and therefore seeing the lavishly eye-catching style of the reception area came as a very nice surprise to me. Also of note is the wonderfully main staircase, which is so grand that using the lifts feels like a bad choice.
As would be expected of a deluxe four-star establishment, each of the 75 bedrooms features all of the usual modern facilities, such as en-suite bathroom, satellite TV, mini-bar, modem connection and air-conditioning. A quite recent refurbishment also means that all are tasteful, comfortable and fairly luxurious in an old-fashioned way, whilst some also have balconies, although the views are admittedly not great.
There are also two very highly regarded restaurants to choose from on the premises. The menu of the incredibly sumptuous Lawrence Colonel focuses on Eastern Mediterranean food, and includes an excellent mezze, whilst tasty dishes are prepared in a traditional style by Japanese chefs in Fujiya. Meanwhile, lighter meals are on offer in the plush Turf Bar, which proved to a great spot to unwind in with a drink, especially during the evenings, when the live piano music helps to create a relaxing atmosphere.
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