Copacabana Place

Av. Atlântica 1702, Copacabana,
Rio De Janeiro
Southwest Brazil
Brazil
(21) 2548-7070

http://www.copacabanapalace.orient-express.com

Type: Hotel
Minimum Rate: R$ 300 - R$ 300

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The Copacabana Palace, considered by many to be South America’s grandest hotel, continues to dominate Av. Atlântica and the Copacabana Beach strip as it has since it was built in 1923 for a visit by the King of Belgium. Popularly known as “the Copa,” the hotel is the social center for wealthy Cariocas and Brazilians from other parts of the country. Fashionable weddings, anniversaries and charitable events are celebrated here and tickets to the Copa’s Carnaval Ball are always in demand. The hotel has played host to visiting royalty (Princess Diana) and stars of film, stage, sports arenas and corporate boardrooms. It was designed by a French architect who used two French Riviera spots as inspiration. Fashioned in stucco, the Mediterranean-style building is an architectural classic and its service and ambience combine Latin and European styles. Copacabana Palace was owned by a private family from 1923 until 1989, when it was purchased by Orient-Express Hotels. It has undergone an extensive refurbishment program that includes a modest expansion. All guest rooms were modernized as well as renovated, a new Executive Floor (the 5th) was added, as was a 6th floor that houses seven Penthouse suites. Almost half the accommodations are suites. Rooms are located in the main building while suites are in both the main and tower buildings. City view (streets), pool view or ocean view accommodations are available and priced accordingly. All accommodations are thoughtfully furnished with king or twin beds, well-stocked bathrooms, cable TV, mini-bars and in-room safes. Some suites and executive rooms have butler service. There are non-smoking rooms. The most stunning renovation was the Copa pool, which is on the ground level between the buildings. One of the largest and most attractive pools in the city, it has a landscaped sun deck and La Pergola, the hotel’s casual dining room nearby under a canopy. Cipriani, arguably the city’s finest Italian restaurant (see page 166), is visible from the sundeck. The hotel has a tennis court, health club and several nice shops. Beach service (towels, chairs, etc.) is provided. The Copacabana Palace does not have any lobby to speak of, simply the utilitarian check-in and concierge desks, so guests and visitors tend to gravitate to the pool area. It’s so serene, you’ll find it hard to believe that Av. Atlântica and Copacabana Beach are just a few steps away. Whatever hotel you select, stop by for a drink or splurge on dinner at Cipriani. You can’t miss the building, which is artfully illuminated at night.