Hotel check: Clarion Sign

Published: 21/05/2008 - Filed under: Archive » 2008 » June 2008 » Tried & Tested » Tried & Tested » Tried & Tested » Hotels » Tried & Tested » Hotels » Sweden »

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What’s it like? The Clarion opened its doors in February this year, making it Stockholm’s newest hotel. Designed by Swedish architect Gert Wingardh, the granite and glass façade is certainly eye-catching among the more traditional buildings in the area, and from above, the hotel resembles the numeral four, with a triangular inner-courtyard from the third floor.

Where is it? From Central station the hotel is a three-minute walk. It is close to the main shopping and business centre and you can easily stroll to the Old Town as well.

How many rooms? 558 – room categories range from Moderate and Standard to Deluxe and Superior.  There are also eight Triangle Suites.

Room facilities My room was a Standard room on the third floor facing  the inner courtyard, and on the opposite side of the hotel from the lifts. Inside it was stylish and clean with a desk and flatscreen TV, while the bathroom had a power shower.

I stayed for two nights and on the first evening the hotel was quiet, but at 10.30pm the following evening I could hear music from an event which was taking place. I called reception to find out how long this was likely to be going on and they apologised and said around 45 minutes. At 11.45pm I called again as the music was so loud I couldn’t sleep.  The staff offered to find me an alternative room but unfortunately the  hotel was fully booked.

Having spoken to the general manager I understand that they are aware of the issue so will hopefully manage to sort it out soon. (I would advise guests to phone ahead to see if there is a big event on during their stay.)

Restaurants and Bars Aquavit Grill and Raw Bar is a sister restaurant to the New York restaurant of the same name, and serves a fusion of Manhattan and Swedish fare. This is also where breakfast is served, with a full buffet offering everything from traditional local options to the usual hot breakfast.

Leisure facilities Selma City Spa on the eighth floor has an outdoor pool, treatment rooms, and a small – if a little crowded – gym area. There is also a relaxation spot on the roof with bubble-like chairs which swing gently from the ceiling.

Business and meeting facilities There is free wifi throughout the hotel – just call reception for a username and password, which give you access for eight hours. Conference facilities range in capacity from 20 to 240 people.

Verdict A stunning building with well thought-out room facilities in a good central location. The heated outdoor pool and relaxation area are a bonus too.

Price Internet rates for a midweek stay in June started at SEK2,121 (£181) for a Standard room.

Contact Ostra Jarnvagsgatan 35;  tel +46 8676 9800; clarionsign.com.