Photography by Greg Autry*
Nob Hill sits at the TOP of San Francisco, and the venerable InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel sits atop the esteemed neighborhood at Number One Nob Hill. Overlooking the City by the Bay for a weekend getaway, or traveling from out of town for business or vacation, the Mark Hopkins San Francisco has been taking care of traveler’s needs since 1926.
The InterContinental Mark Hopkins is within walking distance to Union Square, Chinatown and the Financial District, and just a short ride from Fisherman’s Wharf, the Mission District and Golden Gate Park. The short walk is hilly and can be a climb for some, but not to worry, plenty of ride options are available.
The Mark, as the locals refer to the Hotel, has been registered as a member of the Historic Hotels of America since 2011, and retains that grandeur that adds prestige and glamour to the City of San Francisco. My wife Sandy and I stayed at The Mark in March 2018 and thoroughly enjoyed our visit, especially our luxurious room.
Our keycard opened the door to our room on the 16th floor, and the beautifully appointed room did not disappoint. We were welcomed with a bowl of fresh fruits and a personalized card from the general manager Mr. Maarten Drenth.
Our room featured a Cloud Soft King Size Bed, with multiple pillows. The bed was deliciously comfortable as I fell asleep almost before hitting the pillows early the next morning. The Classic interior room design featured rich woods with warm welcoming colors. An adjacent writing table made it easy to keep my briefcase and essentials near and easy to access. Fresh cut flowers enhanced the view out the window, overlooking the San Francisco Cityscape and Bay. The million dollar view was worth the stay in the room alone, it was that spectacular!
The bathroom suite was no less impressive, done in a careful blend of marbles and travertine, it was highlighted by a Kohler Cast Iron Bathtub, with 6 Jacuzzi whirlpool jets. Agraria Lemon Verbena Bath Amenities were provided on top of the Bombay vanity, with marble top and wide spread faucets. The shower was small, but delivered a mighty stream of hot steamy water which I enjoyed greatly after a long night out. I thought Sandra was never getting out of her Jacuzzi tub, but when she did the soft bath sized towels, hanging presently, were a delight and my shower towels were the largest towels I’ve ever used.
As a retired builder of custom homes I personally appreciated the architectural details, such as the base and crown molding which were correctly and proportionately sized to each room. The carpets were seamless and the borders and accents of the marble were all done superbly.
Of course there were Robes and Slippers available at no additional cost (unless you want to take them home.) Wi-Fi, an Entertainment Center, Mini-Bar, and all the requisite amenities you would expect from a Luxury venue such as the InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco.
At The Hotel is located prominently at the crossing of three cable car lines, it is one of the city’s finest and most classic destinations. Just minutes away from the heart of the financial and business downtown district as well as San Francisco’s most popular destinations, the iconic hotel is a perfect place to stay, whether traveling for business or pleasure.
Located on the 19th floor of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco, the world-renowned Top of the Mark sky lounge affords a near 360-degree vista of San Francisco with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin Headlands, as well as Alcatraz and Fisherman’s Wharf. Since opening, the Top of the Mark has entertained presidents, movie stars, and celebrities who have traveled far and wide to enjoy a cocktail and take in the spectacular view. Sandy and I stopped in for a glass of Champagne, served in a historically correct glass, not a flute as is most common today. The 360 degree view, spectacular!
On the lobby level hotel guests can enjoy the Nob Hill Club, a multi-use facility serving as the restaurant, bar, grab-and-go and club lounge. Unfortunately the Club was closed on the day we visited, however I did manage to get a few photos. This may be the excuse I need to go back !
While the InterContinental Mark Hopkins is an historic gem, the hotel offers a full range of modern services and state-of-the-art amenities for your stay. The concierge and staff are knowledgeable and always ready to make recommendations. I found the staff well trained, friendly, and always happy to help. If you are traveling to San Francisco from another country, try out the staff as their language skills are quite impressive. The Fitness Center offers a get-away to keep energized and you can still be productive in the well-equipped Business Center, both open 24 hours.
Be sure to check the website for the InterContinental Mark Hopkins for special packages, more details about rooms, rates, and availability. You’ll find the hotel is only about 30 minutes from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) during normal travel. If you are driving in, Valet Parking is available for about $ 55.00 per night. The Valet attendants are well versed in locations and happily provide directions and suggestions about all of San Francisco. San Francisco is truly a magical city, yet, it is not necessarily the best city for driving and parking. I suggest using public transportation, “Bart” or “Light Rail Trains,” or Taxi Cabs which are regulated by the City. As the boarding station is less than a block from the Mark Hopkins, I heartily suggest taking a ride on the Legendary Cable Cars, it’s the Iconic way to see San Francisco.
Let me and the Staff know how your stay goes, and if you have any questions about this article or my other Articles here in Splash Magazine, I will enjoy hearing from you.
Connect with me, Greg Autry, on Facebook Facebook.com/GregAutryPhoto, Twitter @CGAGreg, and Instagram gregautry.cga . There are always more pictures !
*Photos ©2018GregAutry ALLRIGHTS RESERVED
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