Compare Balmoral and Caledonian Historic Luxury Hotels in Edinburgh
Which Hotel is Better, Caledonian Hilton or Balmoral Rocco Forte?
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Luxury Hotels in Edinburgh:
Thinking of staying at one of the two landmark, 5-star historic hotels in Edinburgh, the Caledonian Hotel and the Balmoral Hotel Hotel?
Both hotels are rich in history and tradition as they are the two original Edwardian railway hotels built in the late 19th century-early 20th century and they are a natural choice for many first time visitors and repeat visitors looking to book a five star luxurious and historic Edinburgh hotel.
But despite their traditional similarities, each hotel has their own distinct atmosphere so which one would we recommend?
Guide to Edinburgh 5-Star Hotels
Where to Stay in Edinburgh, Balmoral Hotel or Hilton Caledonian Hotel
Caledonian and Balmoral Comparison
Hotel Bars and Restaurants Comparison
There are 5 eating and drinking options at the Balmoral Hotel apart from in-room dining:
- The Michelin starred Number One restaurant, which uses fresh Scottish ingredients
- The less formal Hadrian's Restaurant for Scottish and international cuisine
- The opulent Bollinger Bar at Palm Court
- The contemporary Balmoral Bar featuring a cocktail tasting menu
- The Drawing Room which serves coffee and afternoon tea
There are 4 eating and drinking options at the Caledonian Hotel apart from 24h in-room dining:
- The formal Pompadour Restaurant which serves modern Scottish cuisine and offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle
- The less formal brasserie-style Chisholm's Restaurant which is actually located in the old railway station building
- The Caley Bar which has over 250 malt whiskies to choose from
- Henry J Beans American diner
Hotel Leisure Facilities Comparison
The Balmoral has the award-winning Balmoral Spa, which includes the following facilities:
- 15-metre indoor swimming pool
- Finnish sauna and Turkish steam room
- Gym and exercise room
- Candle-lit, scented relaxation suite and luxury treatment rooms
- Spa treatments for the face and body by ESPA, Ytsara and Sundari
Note: Use of the spa is chargeable, although day-use is complimentary with one treatment.
The Hilton Caledonian offers the LivingWell Health Club which includes:
- 12.5 metre indoor pool and jacuzzi
- Sauna and steam room
- Beauty salon
- Gym with personal trainers
- Ocean Rooms Spa which offers Thalgo, Dermalogica and Mama Mio Maternity spa treatments
Conclusion - Where to stay, Caledonian or Balmoral Hotel
Deciding which of the two most famous historic five star hotels in Edinburgh to stay in is tough and is based largely on personal preference and budget. Both are fantastic hotels to stay in but the Balmoral is the more popular of the two hotels on most review sites.
However, the Balmoral is also the more expensive of the two. Whichever hotel you end up choosing, try and get a room overlooking Edinburgh Castle. In fact, since you are going to splash out on a room at one of these famous luxury hotels you should certainly consider a room with a view towards Edinburgh Castle. Note: Rooms with views of Edinburgh Castle are the more expensive ones.
Also note that apart from the basic room rate you will have to pay for extras such as Wi-Fi and parking if required. But whichever one of the two hotels you choose, you can look forward to a historic and luxury 5-star stay in Edinburgh.