Arrival/Check-in: I drove through the sunny and very steep San Francisco streets and arrived at the Mark Hopkins in the early afternoon. The bellman was very quick in retrieving my luggage from my car and showing me into the lobby. There was a bit of a wait to get checked in, and I took the opportunity to view the expansive and romantic European-designed lobby. Once I was back at the front desk, I was checked in very quickly, complete with suggestions for dining in the hotel and the surrounding Nob Hill area. (29/30)

Guest Quarters: I reserved the atrium suite, which is positioned on one of the corners of the hotel and has amazing views. The entryway and living room are adorned in classic colors, including a rich red for the couch and arm chairs. The dark wood of the cabinets and the coffee table, which would have to be used as a desk, make the room a perfect place to accept visitors, business or personal. The room has a TV, but it’s not up to par with the room, being quite old and not a flat screen. The separate bedroom is small compared to the king-sized bed, but the bed has enough pillows to tempt you to never leave the room to explore the city. The entire bathroom is red and cream marble, with a black granite sink that completes the luxurious look. It offers a glass-encased shower alongside a large tub. The atrium off the living room gives views of the bay and downtown. A wicker couch, two wicker armchairs, potted plants and flowers give this glass room a tropical feel. Between the amazing views and WiFi in the atrium, I spent almost all my time there when in the suite. (26/30)

Services/Amenities: With 380 guestrooms, the Mark Hopkins offers an array of entertainment and dining experiences. An InterContinental Club level and business center give the business traveler a place to conduct work efficiently and in style. The legendary Top of the Mark Sky Lounge on the top floor offers a 360-degree view of San Francisco, and a band or pianist sets a great tone for the evening. The Sky Lounge has a 100-martini menu and turns into a restaurant in time for a sunset dinner with great wine pairings. Their fitness center operates 24 hours, as do the in-room dining and dry cleaning services. (40/40)

The Experience: The luxurious and sophisticated feel of this historic landmark and hotel gives you a true glimpse of what San Francisco has to offer. The quality of service and uniqueness of the hotel set it apart from the ultra-modern and stark hotels that keep popping up. The location in Nob Hill allows you to take a brisk walk or take the trolley to shopping, dining and business in either downtown and Union Square or the Embarcadero.

Total Score: 95/100

Intercontinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco

One Nob Hill
San Francisco, CA 94108
tel 415 392 3434
www.intercontinentalmarkhopkins.com