Nestled between Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel, is home to one of Rome’s most extraordinary secrets: a magnificent hidden garden that offers a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of the Eternal City. Combining timeless elegance, discreet luxury and exceptional hospitality, this iconic property remains one of the Italian capital’s most coveted addresses.
Long regarded as one of Rome’s legendary hotels, Hotel de Russie was famously described as a “paradise on earth” by French poet Jean Cocteau in 1917. Over the years, its guestbook has read like a who’s who of the cultural world, welcoming icons such as Pablo Picasso, Jean Cocteau, Igor Stravinsky and Audrey Hepburn, all drawn to its unique blend of elegance, discretion and Roman charm.
The true soul of the hotel lies within its extraordinary historic garden. Meticulously restored to its original splendour, this hidden oasis is a masterpiece of neoclassical elegance. Terraces, balustrades, hidden grottoes, ornamental fountains and classical statues are woven into a lush botanical landscape, where the gentle sound of flowing water creates a symphony of tranquillity. More than a garden, it is a living work of art and one of Rome’s most enchanting hidden treasures.
At the heart of this urban sanctuary lies Le Jardin, the hotel’s celebrated outdoor dining destination. Surrounded by centuries-old greenery and fragrant flowers, guests can savour refined Italian cuisine in one of the most beautiful settings in Rome. Under the culinary direction of renowned chef Fulvio Pierangelini, Le Jardin celebrates the finest Mediterranean ingredients through a menu that is both sophisticated and deeply rooted in Italian tradition. Often described as a “food whisperer”, Pierangelini is admired for his ability to transform the simplest ingredients — seafood, fish and seasonal vegetables — into elegant and memorable creations, delivering a dining experience that perfectly reflects the Italian art of living.
The experience extends beyond the restaurant with two of Rome’s most stylish cocktail destinations. The elegant Aquazzura Bar, created in collaboration with the renowned luxury fashion brand, brings a touch of Riviera glamour to the capital with its sophisticated atmosphere and signature cocktails. Nearby, the iconic Stravinskij Bar remains one of Rome’s most beloved aperitivo destinations, where locals and international visitors gather amidst the lush surroundings of the garden to enjoy expertly crafted drinks in a uniquely enchanting setting.
Sundays at Hotel de Russie offer yet another reason to visit. The hotel’s celebrated brunch has become one of the city’s most sought-after culinary experiences, attracting both guests and Romans alike. Served in the idyllic setting of Le Jardin, the brunch showcases an abundant selection of Italian and international delicacies, seasonal dishes and indulgent desserts, transforming a leisurely Sunday into a true celebration of gastronomy and conviviality.
Combining exceptional cuisine, refined hospitality and one of the most beautiful private gardens in Italy, Hotel de Russie embodies the very essence of Roman elegance. Hidden behind its historic façade lies a world of beauty, serenity and timeless sophistication — a secret garden where the spirit of Rome reveals itself at its most enchanting.
Leave a Reply