One of my favourite city spas is the one at the Cavalieri Hilton in Rome. It is so opulent that it looks as if it belongs in a Fellini film – there is even a roaring fire in a very grand fireplace next to the swimming pool – in case la signora feels a little chilly. There are candelabra, animal print chaise longues, marbles, gilt and jade wherever you look. And then there is a huge state-of-the-art fitness studio (not that I spend too much time there)…and just in case it all sounds a little tame for current visitors they have just installed a climbing wall in the gardens. Suffice to say that the hotel is built on the highest of Rome’s seven hills and the views of the city are breath-taking from every aspect…can you imagine what they will be like from the top of the wall? Having never thought of climbing up a wall…although occasionally I have been driven up one by annoyances…this could be the temptation I need…except would it be too scary? and would I break a nail? I think in the meantime I’ll settle for a little light retail and then some reflexology to combat the pavement pounding. www.romecavalieri.com
