On a Sunday afternoon we arrived at The Ritz-Carlton in Atlanta’s affluent Buckhead neighborhood. A large wedding party had overtaken the lobby. The efficient staff quickly checked us into our eighth-floor corner guestroom, which featured an abundance of windows looking out at the city skyline. The room was a comfortable 360 square feet with blonde Art Deco furniture upholstered in peach-colored fabrics. The in-room amenities were what you would expect from a luxury brand: a plush, king-sized bed with 400-thread-count sheets; bathrobes; an iPod docking station; a safe; and a refreshment center. The foyer had mahogany flooring and the well-lit bathroom featured a rainforest showerhead, lighted shaving/makeup mirror and Asprey bath products.

While at the hotel, we had Club Level privileges and were equally impressed with the continually changing buffet of refreshments and the courteous staff. We just missed lunch, but a host graciously went back into the kitchen and returned with Italian sandwiches, a selection of fresh fruit and gourmet cheeses. My husband and I indulged in an afternoon glass of wine and decided to follow our meal with a walk.

Within three minutes, we were inside Lenox Square, the mall directly across the street from The Ritz-Carlton. The state’s first regional mall opened more than 50 years ago and is home to Neiman Marcus, Prada, Burberry and Cartier, among others. After shopping for hours, we returned to the hotel, unloaded our packages and went to the indoor pool located on the roof. Guests could lounge in chairs and catch a few rays, but the refreshing pool is enclosed in glass, making it useable year-round.

After a swim, we returned to the Club Level, where guests can dine on hors d’oeuvres designed for an epicurean. Beef arugula and pecorino cheese, compressed watermelon mascarpone basil with salon caviar, and Cobb salad with white balsamic vinegar were some of the selections available 5–8 p.m. From 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., the serving table was changed to decadent chocolate and cordials, including homemade marshmallows, biscotti, wedding cookies, French macaroons, peanut brittle and chocolate truffles created by the hotel’s pastry chef.

In the morning, we were up early and facing a seven-hour drive. After eating a hot breakfast, we consulted with the Club Level supervisor, Walter, about the best route to bypass the notoriously frustrating Atlanta traffic. Not only did he print us directions for an easy exit, but sent us off with an elaborately packaged gift of signature Ritz-Carlton chocolate truffles.

The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead

3434 Peachtree Road, N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30326
tel 404 237 2700