The Symbol Of Old Hollywood Elegance. Credit: Hotel Bel-Air
Since opening in 1946, Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Hotel Bel-Air has been one of L.A.’s most iconic stays, synonymous with Old Hollywood glamour and a favorite among celebrities — especially for wedding nights. One of the most legendary frequent guests was Marilyn Monroe, who lived on and off at the hotel for more than a decade.
Located in a residential neighborhood, just minutes from bustling Beverly Hills and Westwood, Hotel Bel-Air was completely refurbished a few years ago. Although much has changed in design and upgrades, those iconic white birds still float by on the property’s Swan Lake.
Here are five other reasons to experience Hotel Bel-Air for yourself:
Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air. Credit: Hotel Bel-Air
Dining by Wolfgang Puck
The hotel’s main restaurant, Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air, features modern California cuisine with European and Mediterranean influences in a lavishly lush setting. Since opening in 2011, the Four-Star restaurant has not only earned critical acclaim, but gained popularity for its elegantly casual weekend brunch and star-studded Visiting Chef Series.
Swan Lake. Credit: Hotel Bel-Air
Picnic Time
Spread across 12 acres, the aforementioned grounds are one of the finest amenities at Hotel Bel-Air. Smartly, the property encourages you to take advantage of your scenic surrounds by offering Wolfgang Puck-curated gourmet picnic baskets to enjoy alfresco. We highly recommend snagging a spot near the hotel’s signature Swan Lake for this photogenic meal.
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Chic Cakes
Somewhat of a hidden gem in L.A.’s bakery scene, Hotel Bel-Air’s pastry team creates delicious French-style cakes to order that are almost too gorgeous to eat. Choose from mouth-watering flavors like strawberry lane, honey bee, mocha choco latte, lemon in the coconut or flourless flower cake.
You must pre-order, whether you’re picking it up or having it served at the restaurant, 48 hours in advance. And the sweetest part: you don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy one of these decadent delights.
Hotel Bel-Air Spa. Credit: Hotel Bel-Air
Extreme Pampering
Hidden among the hotel’s tropical gardens, the Five-Star Hotel Bel-Air Spa has delivered luxury TLC to guests for more than 70 years. Take advantage of a menu featuring the latest in anti-aging technology.
One of the spa’s most popular treatments, especially around awards season, is the Signature Valmont Facial that includes a collagen mask, microcurrent and LED therapy, and a soothing massage for the hands and feet.
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Kid-Friendly Elegance
Just because Hotel Bel-Air’s rooms are filled with exquisite art, minibars and adult-sized soaking tubs doesn’t mean that the little ones will feel alienated here. On the contrary, kids get their own cozy bathrobes and can join in on traditional afternoon tea with the hotel’s special Little Royals Tea menu.
And don’t forget to ask the knowledgeable concierge about the best family friendly activities around L.A.
Junior visitors can even be introduced to the property’s four resident swans: Hercules, Athena, Chloe and Odette.
