The Balmoral, A Rocco Forte Hotel

Royal crests, tartans, and bellmen in toppers and long coats serve as the calling card for The Balmoral, whose prestigious address on Princes Street in downtown Edinburgh, Scotland, appeals to both business travelers and power shoppers. Views of Edinburgh Castle and Old Town brighten many of the 188 luxury guest rooms and suites, which feature a contemporary decor with Scottish accents, work desk, dual-line phones, interactive TV, and high-speed Internet access. Balmoral Spa incorporates an indoor swimming pool, Finnish sauna, Turkish steam room, fitness center, and group exercise studio with wooden sprung floors.

Generous window arches illuminate the stately Balmoral meeting facilities, which include seven venues for business meetings and corporate events to 350. The Michelin-rated Number One restaurant specializes in locally sourced creative cuisine, while The Balmoral Bar combines tweed with urban chic.