Golden Prague Residence ★★★★

Arriving outside our apartment late one evening as the thermometer strained to reach -5 degrees, I gripped my partner’s hand in a furry gloved clasp as we perilously negotiated the icy streets to the inviting entrance. As a doorman ushered us in and dispatched his team to collect our bags from the cab, we were welcomed warmly by the concierge, and given a first glimpse of the attentive, professional attitudes that characterised the Golden Prague Residence personnel. A member of staff escorted us to our room, which, we were relieved to discover, was cosy and comfortable, and primed for us to thoroughly thaw before going in search of a late supper.

Our own residence was a prim, well-proportioned suite featuring a bedroom and bathroom, a kitchen equipped for two, and an open-plan living area. We were a bit disappointed to discover the only oven was a microwave, but we also had little intention of using the kitchen at all: with access to the Intercontinental next door, you can take advantage of room service, or, of course, sample a taste of Czech cuisine. Prague’s restaurant scene is flourishing, and the city is quickly becoming one of Europe’s top culinary destinations.

The bedroom is simple and small, but boasts soft pillows and mattresses and pristine white linens. Neutral walls and blonde wood give the apartments a contemporary air, though the rich-coloured soft furnishings make the spaces warm and cosy: perfect for unwinding with a glass of wine or cup of tea at the end of a day spent exploring the city. The rooms are provided with cooking and dining wares as well as laundry facilities, so that guests feel right at home in these contemporary suites.

Feet stuffed into woolly socks and substantial boots, and hearing reduced considerably by a heavyweight beanie, I followed my partner’s brave lead into the biting chill and, emitting clouds of steamy breath, we wandered leisurely into the old town. Conveniently located on the banks of the Vltava River, the Golden Prague Residence occupies prime Old Town real estate, and is just a few minutes’ walk to Charles Bridge and the Old Town Square with its instantly recognisable astronomical clock. For a moment of respite from the evening chill, we nipped upstairs to the Cafe Mozart (formerly Café Milena, named for Franz Kafka’s lover) for vast pots of goulash and a stunning view over the square through misty windows.

Having wandered the streets of the Old Town for some time, completely lost thanks to the snow rendering everything identical under a frosting of brilliant, pearlescent white, the glowing entrance of the Residence was a welcome sight. Kicking off our boots and rubbing feeling back into our hands, we arrived home at our comfortable suite. Intending on resting our legs a while, we reclined on the large bed and, bewitched by the magical city beyond, fell into a deep, restorative sleep. And the best part? We got to do it all again in the dazzling winter sunlight the very next morning.

With all the amenities of a five-star hotel, whilst maintaining the luxury of independence of having your own private suite, the Golden Prague Residence is a solid choice for a well-equipped, conveniently located apartment for your stay in the jewel of central Europe.