Hotel Lev Ljubljana, Slovenia ****

“Classy hotel with a modern touch, ideally located few minutes’ from main Ljubljana’s attractions!” (Hotel Lev, Ljubljana)

It has been a while since I was city strolling in European Green Capital. I know it is just a short distance from my hometown but Ljubljana is different, there is something about Ljubljana that makes me want to go there every time I’m in Slovenia. Not sure what it is, weather is the lively spirit, timeless architecture, or just the fact that is the capital of my home, I’m sure Ljubljana has the right ingredients for a perfect city break! And of course when Hotel Lev invited me to stay with them this February, I was thrilled to enjoy the trendy vibe the city has to offer.

HOTEL LEV, LJUBLJANA

• Stars: ****
• Price: from 75 € per night (depends on the season)
• Location: Vošnjakova ulica 1, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
• Website: www.union-hotels.eu
• WiFi: complementary and very easy to use

This elegant 4 stars hotel has ideal central location just a few minutes’ walk from Ljubljana’s old town and the main sightseeing attractions that city has to offer. And this is not the only peek of this 13 floor high glass exterior hotel, as it offers a magnificent view of the city, mountains and the Ljubljana castle.

My first impression of Hotel Lev was pleasant, as the Interior was elegant mixed with modern touch, lobby was very spacious and inviting and I felt comfortable as the hotel staff was very helpful and courteous. Check-in was quick with no complications and I was ready to enjoy my three-day stay in Ljubljana.

THE LOCATION

I’m fond of this hotel especially for its privileged location. Ljubljana’s attractions, such as Prešern square (10 min), Triple bridge (10 min), Central Market (13 min) and old part of the city (15 min) are within an easy walking distance. As well as the best restaurants in town are easy to reach.

For those who are traveling by plane, it is an easy drive as well, as it is only 30 minutes away from Jože Pučnik Airport, and for those who are traveling by train, the advantage is that it is close to the railway station.

What I’ve noticed in comparison with United States, in Europe we walk a lot. There is no problem to walk from one part of the city to another, as the distance is usually short. But believe me, this 10 minutes’ walk to city center it’s enjoyable, plus it is good for your health.

ROOM EXPERIENCE

Hotel Lev has 157 rooms and 16 suites. Rooms are tastefully decorated in neutral colors, filled with light and well equipped.

I was upgraded to spacious Executive Suita (No. 905), that has a separate living area with a working space. It offers a mountain and nearby Park Tivoli view. Décor is in variation of light colors and it feels fresh. It is very quiet even though the streets of Ljubljana are right under. We had a King size bed, which was very comfortable with more than enough pillows to choose. Every room is equipped with a flat screen TV, WiFi, a minibar, a safe and air conditioning. The bathroom is fair size, with comfortable tub. It looks very elegant with granite top vanity and marble floor. Overall, quite pleasing to the eye.

I was welcomed with a plate of fresh fruit and stuff helped me with any question or request.

But no matter how cozy or elegant the room is, nothing beats the view of Ljubljana castle! If you have a chance, I highly recommend you to book a room with castle view, even though the view of city center and surrounding mountains is splendid as well.

FOOD

The Hotel Lev has a lovely dining area with a standalone restaurant, bar and breakfast room.

The main buffet is located on the ground floor and it has been renovated in fresh and modern style.  Breakfast is included in room rate. Offer is excellent and everything I could want was there – from a simple selection of fruit to different types of cereals and French pastries, including four different kinds of eggs (pan-fried, vegetable omelette, ham omelette, hard-boiled eggs), crepes, sweets and sausages. There is also a little urban herb garden which is in my opinion a very original and useful idea.

I used lobby bar once when I invited some friends to join me for a coffee. It is very cosy, funky and modern, but the best highlight is one of the biggest saltwater aquarium that divides the bar from the Restaurant Lev.

The hotel as well has a well know a la carte restaurant Pri Levu, which serves contemporary cuisine with a Mediterranean touch. I would especially like to point out the excellent service and the quality of food! On the set menu, one course was in the range of 9 euros – 27 euros. I had a Ramsteak with vegetables and baked potatoes as a side dish (27 euros). But Tonkin Brulee made my evening.

ACTIVITIES

Although this hotel doesn’t offer have a spa area, offers acceptable fitness for a basic workout and massage service, where guests can relax. For those who like gambling, I have great news, Casino Lev is right around the corner, but for those who prefer outdoors, Park Tivoli is a close walking distance. I also noticed something very intriguing. At the reception they offer a “rent a scooter” option for those who want to experience Ljubljana in more exciting way.

I’ve also noticed that hotel is focused on conferences and events, as it offers renovated Karantania conference hall, where they organize different kinds of events, weddings and other events for special occasions.

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Without a doubt I highly recommend this hotel when visiting Ljubljana. It has a great location, high quality rooms and excellent food choices, but especially the staff will make you feel very welcome.

With love,

Vanesa S.

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