If you are travelling to Washington DC and want to stay in a boutique hotel, then you should consider the Rosewood Georgetown. This charming hotel lies on the C&O canal in a gorgeous brick building. With a courtyard, roof terrace, and plenty of open space, it feels a bit like you’re in your own stately home.
History of the Rosewood Georgetown
This beautiful boutique hotel’s design was inspired by American architecture. It incorporates contemporary art and furniture against the traditional brownstone of early America.
Georgetown is one of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in Washington DC. The hotel’s sophisticated interior reflects that, especially in the luxurious finishings and attention to detail.
Visiting the Rosewood Georgetown
In July 2017, I met with the Director of Sales, who showed me around the hotel and shared some of the history with me. I met Jill in the lobby of the hotel, which is just off 31st street in DC’s Georgetown neighbourhood. The classic marble entryway is designed to be like the entry of your home. Instead of a reception desk, there is a small concierge desk. The ladies there personify the Rosewood hospitality.
Check in occurs around the corner, in the library. Your bags will be taken to your room for you while you check in leisurely. Feel free to return to the library in the evening if you like; its plush sofas are more than inviting.
Rooms and Suites
The Rosewood Georgetown only has 49 rooms and suites, making it the smallest luxury hotel in DC. Of the 49, 15 are suites. It is possible to get adjoining rooms and suites for families, often with a separate foyer between the two rooms.
The rooms at the Rosewood Georgetown are modern luxury. There’s plenty of storage in the bathroom and dressing room, his and hers sinks, deep soaking tubs with exclusive products, and rain showers. I was impressed with all the details, from the door handles to the perfectly creased bedding. In addition, there is a full length mirror. It’s one of the major things I look for in a hotel room, since I like to make sure my entire outfit looks good.
Dining at the Rosewood
The Rosewood Georgetown has three great bars and restaurants. Downstairs, the Rye Bar overlooks the historic canal. It has a small terrace, and there are rumours of a cigar bar (wink wink). The Rye Bar’s sleek mahogany interior is very reminiscent of old Washington men’s clubs. It’s furnished with dark leather chairs, but the updated style, full length windows, and indoor-outdoor flow screams modern Washington.
The second restaurant downstairs is the Grill Room, which features American style dining. The Grill Room has a private dining room, perfect for families, friends, or business associates. On the penthouse level, the Pool Terrace serves cocktails and light bites. While all of the restaurants are open to non-hotel residents, guests take precedence.
The penthouse floor also houses the fitness centre and pool. Both can be open to the elements in good weather and closed in the winter months. The pool often gives the impression of an infinity pool and in the winter months, the interior part is a little bit like a sauna. However, during my visit there were several children playing in it. It was more “blast off” than “to infinity and beyond!”
Virtuoso Perks
As always, there are some great perks to booking a Virtuoso hotel through a Virtuoso advisor. The Rosewood Georgetown offers my clients early check in or late check out, an upgrade on arrival (subject to availability), complimentary wifi, complimentary breakfast for two, and a $100 food and beverage credit. My clients also receive a welcome gift and are often greeted by name by either the Director of Sales or the General Manager!
Want more reasons to use a travel advisor? Check out my series here!