That mystical feeling of the walls whispering stories of what used to be, what never came to light, and the love stories long lost in time and space. Some buildings carry that sense of the nostalgic past, which guests would desire to have witnessed themselves. There is an undeniable gravitas, created by the patina souls that spent time here. This is what you’ll find in one of Scotland’s most beguiling addresses Cheval The Edinburgh Grand.
Cheval The Edinburgh Grand is a five-star fully serviced luxury apartment residence in a spectacular historic building. Located in central Edinburgh, each of the 50 tasteful apartments is decorated in contemporary design with authentic touches, such as original dark wood panelling and decorative cornicing.
The building served as a bank until 2007. The Edinburgh Grand, as we know it today, opened in 2018 following a careful restoration. After the initial construction as a hotel in the 1800s, the historic building has been purchased by National Bank of Scotland who completed further renovations with the ambition of elevating its’ status. In-between the World Wars, famous architects Mewes & Davis, as well as master cabinet makers Whytock & Reid worked their magic on the building, making it a stand-out example of neoclassical architecture. As guests stroll along the building and inside the apartments, they cannot help but admire the craftmanship of the authentic features. So, over centuries, the building has metamorphosized repeatedly from a hotel to National Bank of Scotland and other banks, to a luxury apartment residence.
Adding to the outstanding art deco building are the 50 renovated luxury apartments. With a diverse range of options, visitors can choose what is best for any length of stay. Whether visitors are after a spacious penthouse overlooking central Edinburgh and Holyrood Park, or prefer a cosier option for two, they will be able to find it all. The said three-bedroom penthouse spanning over the top floor is the true jewel of Cheval The Edinburgh Grand.
On a warm summer’s day, romantic couples may opt to dine in on the well-furnished terrace overlooking an inactive volcano that is Arthur’s seat. Comfortably sleeping up to six guests, the penthouse offers show stopping views of the capital from the welcoming terrace, as well as the floor-to-ceiling windows. With a slick, yet earthy interior and a light colour scheme, a familiar, homely feel will wash over anyone who walks in.
Other apartment options include The Director’s Suite, two- and one-bedroom apartments, as well as an open plan accommodation. The Director’s Suite is a history lover’s dream: formerly a bank board member’s dining room, the suite features majestic marble fireplaces and gold tone accent wood panelling. The suite is a guaranteed vote of approval for a luxury stay and can sleep up to three art deco enthusiasts yet feed a lot more with a grand dining table.
Located on the fourth floor, The Register Club at Cheval The Edinburgh Grand takes neoclassical architecture and interior to the next level with opulent elegance. It is the perfect place to wind down with a few flawlessly made cocktails and take in the authentic and modern décor. The Register Club is also famous for its’ afternoon tea – a tradition passed on through generations. Visitors can enjoy a smoked venison sausage roll, a smoked salmon éclair, mini pork and haggis pies, pared with goats’ cheese and fresh homemade scones. For the sweet section of the afternoon tea experience, a matcha and white chocolate mousse, pink grapefruit and basil posset tart is appetisingly presented with rose champagne and honey jelly and black forest gateau. Guests can also indulge in a glass of champagne or opt for loose leaf tea or coffee.
However, the luxurious apartments and the charm of the historical building are not the only incentives: all apartments at Cheval The Edinburgh Grand are pet friendly, so guests can bring their furry friends along. And visitors who take their fitness seriously may opt to go down to the lower level where CaveFit fitness centre is located. With two modern studios and different fitness sessions available, burning those calories and getting toned will be an easy task.
Thus, Cheval The Edinburgh Grand is a wish fulfilment for a luxury and history lover that can offer either a new temporary home, or a short stay for the sophisticated traveler.