Heading through the gates and down the sweeping driveway here, you would be forgiven for thinking you were heading to a colonial mansion as opposed to a hotel.
The property is situated between two palaces – the homes of Ethiopia’s president and prime minister – and it’s clear the architect Kosek Ivo drew inspiration from these landmark buildings, although the hotel’s rose gardens and turquoise fountains are disconcertingly grand compared to the incredible hustle and bustle of the streets outside.
Widely reputed to be among the finest city hotels in Africa, the thickly carpeted rooms boast expansive terraces, marble bathrooms and some of the comfiest beds on the continent.
Step outside your room and you’ll have a choice of 10 restaurants and bars, from elegant Italian Stagioni and poolside BBQ Breezes to a grand function suite that recently hosted the country’s president for a special homecoming gig by Ethio-jazz legend Mulatu Astatke – all of which makes for an esteemed venue indeed.
Words: Jennifer Gibson
Image: Sheraton addis