Standing proudly on George Street, InterContinental Edinburgh The George unites five 18th-century Georgian townhouses behind a magnificent stone façade. Grand Corinthian columns rise above the main entrance, where international flags flutter against the sky alongside the Saltire. Historically known as ‘The George Hotel’ since 1881, this listed property hosted distinguished minds during the Scottish Enlightenment. Literary icons Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott previously gathered within these historic halls, leaving an enduring cultural legacy.

ITINERARY

Day 1

1

13:00

Arrival and Check In
2

15:00

Two-Bedroom Suite ‘Somerville Suite’
3

19:00

Dinner at Le Petit Beefbar

Day 2

1

09:00

Breakfast at Club InterContinental
2

11:30

Explore Edinburgh
3

18:30

Evening cocktails and canapés at Club InterContinental

Day 3

1

09:00

In-Room Dining / Breakfast at the suite
2

11:30

Sunday Mass
3

14:00

Sunday Lunch at Le Petit Beefbar

First Impression

Stepping inside reveals a breathtaking reception lobby framed by dramatic white Corinthian pillars and ornate ceiling cornicing. Warm Scottish hospitality unfolds across an elegant geometric marble tiled floor illuminated by hanging glass lantern chandeliers. Check-in proceeds effortlessly before attentiveness leads guests through wide arched corridors to the exclusive Club InterContinental Lounge. Relaxing over hot tea within this peaceful retreat allows weary travellers to unwind prior to an escort conducting them upstairs.

Built in the 1780s as five separate Georgian townhouses, the property hosted legendary poets Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott long before opening as a hotel in 1881.

Signature – The Somerville Suite

Honouring Mary Somerville, Scotland’s 18th-century pioneer, Somerville Suite is the property’s largest two-bedroom residence provides extraordinary space. A grand living lounge showcases neutral armchairs, an ornamental fireplace, and an executive writing desk. Intricate leaf-patterned rugs anchor a plush sofa set beneath vibrant Scottish Highland landscape artwork. Tucked beside tall sash windows, a private dining nook offers a serene spot for suite meals.

The primary bedroom features soaring windows framed by tailored drapes, overlooking historic George Street. Accommodating extra guests, the second bedroom includes plush twin beds and its own subway-tiled en-suite shower room. The principal marble bathroom acts as a private sanctuary with a classic freestanding roll-top bath. Welcome touches like Fettercairn whisky miniatures, Byredo toiletries, and Dyson hairdryers ensure an exceptionally luxurious stay.

The 2 bedroom suite honours Mary Somerville, the pioneering Edinburgh astronomer and mathematician for whom the word “scientist” was first coined in 1834.

Open Plan Living Area

Master Bedroom

Second Bedroom

Club InterContinental Lounge

Serving as a sophisticated sanctuary in the city centre, the Club InterContinental Lounge delivers personalised hospitality throughout the day. Leisurely mornings begin with a magnificent traditional Scottish breakfast featuring high-quality local produce and fresh pastries. Afternoon visitors enjoy delicate scones, cakes, and light snacks accompanied by freshly brewed coffees or specialty teas. Evening hours welcome guests to sample handpicked fine wines and spirits alongside gourmet canapés from Le Petit Beefbar.

Every suite booking includes complimentary access to the lounge, featuring all-day barista coffee, afternoon treats, and evening cocktails paired with Beefbar canapés.

Dinner at Le Petit Beefbar

Marking its Scottish debut, Riccardo Giraudi’s Le Petit Beefbar brings serious culinary style and global gastronomy to George Street. A table-side cut presentation introduces premier raw beef selections showcasing extraordinary Wagyu marbling. Sipping the Highland Mist cocktail, garnishing citrus twists over Fettercairn whisky and pear cognac, sets a chic tone. Pan-seared West Coast scallops resting on vibrant kale purée and shaved beef karasumi deliver an exquisite starter.

The main event highlights tender Kagoshima Wagyu steak sliced elegantly onto dark marble with flaky sea salt. Piled high in a brass bowl, golden fries feature an abundant mountain of grated Parmesan and shaved black truffle. Dessert brings a hot Guanaja chocolate soufflé stamped with the golden Beefbar emblem in a brass saucepan. Spoonfuls of white chocolate ice cream plunged directly into the molten dark chocolate center create ultimate indulgence.

The signature Highland Mist cocktail arrives at your marble table crowned with an aromatic veil of whisky mist infused right at your table.

Coffee at Burr & Co.

Light streams into Burr & Co., illuminating rich timber panelling and striking teal-tiled counters along George Street. Glass display cases feature handwritten labels offering artisanal shortbread, fresh scones, pastrami baguettes, and gourmet wraps. Bakers present banana loaf slices, lemon drizzle cakes, and farmhouse loaves under glass domes upon polished wooden stands.

Relaxing at a round marble table opposite the counter provides an ideal spot for morning re-caffeination. A tall glass of chilled iced mocha brings smooth espresso and velvety chocolate notes over ice. Savouring a golden slice of rhubarb and raspberry crumble delivers a delightful sweet and tangy midday treat.

All pastry displays feature handwritten daily specials on glass panels, offering local Scottish treats like freshly baked rhubarb crumble.

Sunday Roast Experience

Sunday lunch at Le Petit Beefbar transforms a treasured British tradition into a sublime feast. Served on polished silver platters atop marble tables, slices of grass-fed Aberdeen Angus striploin showcase tender, rosy centres. Towering, golden Yorkshire puddings perch beside charred Broccolini, sweet roasted carrots, and seared Hispi cabbage. Side skillets overflow with extra-crispy roast potatoes, accompanied by individual boats of glossy, savoury gravy.

Indulging in sweet finales, French toast nibbles arrive glazed in rich caramel sauce. A quenelle of smooth praline cream rests alongside whipped Chantilly garnished with fresh berries and lime zest. Heavenly contrast between warm caramelised brioche and cool cream concludes Sunday dining on a memorable note.

Sunday roasts are carved from grass-fed Aberdeen Angus striploin and served family-style on double-tiered silver platters.

Old Town Highlights

Positioned perfectly in Edinburgh’s prestigious New Town, the hotel serves as an ideal base for exploring ancient cobbled streets. Guests stroll easily toward the historic Royal Mile, marveling at the Gothic architecture of St Giles’ Cathedral. Colorful curved storefronts along Victoria Street and the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket offer endless charm. Climbing nearby Calton Hill rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic vistas across the entire capital skyline.

Guests can walk from the hotel’s doorstep across the Waverley valley to the Royal Mile and Victoria Street in under ten minutes.

Breakfast at Club InterContinental Lounge

Morning sunlight illuminates classic timber arches above the exquisite Club InterContinental breakfast buffet. Buttery croissants, lemon drizzle cake, and colourful fruit preserves rest invitingly upon sleek marble countertops. Guests secure a peaceful corner table tucked beside a grand arched window overlooking historic Georgian architecture. Quiet elegance defines this magnificent morning ritual in the heart of Edinburgh.

Ordering “The Full George” delivers a magnificent Scottish feast packed with authentic regional flavours. Ayrshire bacon, Cumberland sausage, black pudding, haggis, and a golden tattie scone fill the plate. Freshly cooked eggs, vine tomatoes, mushrooms, and baked beans complete this hearty savoury masterpiece. Warm golden waffles dusted with icing sugar provide an indulgent sweet finish alongside forest berry compote.

“The Full George” breakfast includes authentic Campbell’s Scottish haggis alongside a traditional griddled tattie scone.

Stefano Malachi’s Verdict

Stefano Malachi, in a plush white bathrobe, sits comfortably in a large, sun-dappled king-size bed in the luxurious Somerville Suite, InterContinental Edinburgh The George. She is holding a mug and gazing towards the light, enjoying a quiet morning moment. Sunlight streams through tall windows, casting light streaks on the grey carpet and illuminating the elegant, high-ceilinged room with its traditional crown molding, paneled walls, and a large landscape triptych.

InterContinental Edinburgh The George excels as a premier destination, holding an enviable position between the Old Town and New Town. Combining rich 18th-century Enlightenment heritage with world-class dining and refined Club InterContinental service, the hotel impresses at every turn. Whether exploring nearby cultural monuments or relaxing in the Somerville Suite, guests enjoy an authentic taste of Scottish elegance. This iconic landmark stands as an essential sanctuary for discerning global travellers seeking an unforgettable Edinburgh retreat.

he hotel stands as one of the few luxury properties in the city that spans an entire block between George Street and Rose Street.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by STEFANO MALACHI (@stefanomalachi)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by STEFANO MALACHI (@stefanomalachi)

Discover More

For Stefano Malachi’s latest travel updates and luxury hotel reviews, check out his Instagram page. 

Want to explore Europe’s finest accommodations? Discover a curated selection of ultra-luxurious hotels across Europe

Thinking about which Michelin-Starred Restaurants next? Explore Stefano Malachi’s curated collection of Michelin-Starred Restaurant Reviews

stefanomalachi

stefanomalachi

Stefano Malachi is a British Editor-in-Chief of his online publication and Luxury Travel Storyteller, specialising in independent luxury hotel reviews, who is among the top 1% of TripAdvisor UK reviewers. As he explores the world's finest accommodations, his Google Maps photos have garnered over 25 million views. By capturing the hotels’ essence with a distinct artistic eye, he has established an Instagram engagement rate of 4.49%. With 40 countries explored, he offers discerning insights into luxury hotels, wellness journeys, and culinary experiences. Join Stefano as he uncovers hidden gems and redefines the art of luxury travel, one photograph at a time.

error: Content is protected !!