Sometimes, the best thing a mom can do for her family is to leave—temporarily. If you go somewhere with your family it is a trip, if you go alone (or with girlfriends) it’s a vacation. Hotel Swexan in Dallas, Texas was just that for me. The perfect solo vacation.
As I pulled up in my rental car, I was met by a valet and a red carpet. Starting my night away as a fake movie star was exactly what the doctor ordered.
The entrance is unassuming, almost like a speak-easy, but once you are inside you are struck by the art and European decor. The Swiss part of the hotel is obvious with clean white walls and marble, and yet you can sense the Texan influence as well, hence the name, Hotel Swexan.
Located in the Harwood Arts District of downtown Dallas, the Hotel Swexan combines the tastes of the owners, one is Swiss and the other is Texan. You see longhorns and classic art all in the same room.
Want more luxury travel ideas? Get inspired with our newsletter!
Accommodations
What I love about this hotel is the attention to detail. The hallways are painted in a dark navy which makes you want to whisper. I never heard anyone screaming down the hallway, it makes you want to be quiet because it is so soothing. Like entering a dark bedroom.
The 134 rooms are anything but dark. My room had floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Dallas, a large minibar, a small Bluetooth speaker for my tunes, and of course a luxurious robe. My bathroom was constructed of white and light grey marble. There was a freestanding tub, a shower with multiple shower heads, and a separate toilet area.
For an even more luxe stay, book one of the 8 bespoke suites.
Restaurants
While I could have just stayed in my room and enjoyed room service, I ventured out to dinner in the hotel at Leonie.
This rooftop restaurant is for hotel guests only so it is not overcrowded. It is light with florals and a motif that makes you think of a European cafe, however you are on a roof next to a pool overlooking Dallas. If you are there on the weekend, it is worth exploring their afternoon tea.
Other restaurants at the hotel:
- Stillwell’s: A classic Texas steakhouse with a luxury feel. Your dining experience is wrapped in a dark and moody decor and served with a steak that would make any Texan proud.
- Babou’s: If you are in the mood for drinking and dancing, you can head downstairs to the hotel. Drinks and light snacks along with tunes make for a night out that is also in. No car service required.
- Isabelle’s: This restaurant on the main floor is accessible to the public and offers all-day service. Pop in for breakfast and a drink in the evening. It has a European feel, taking on the Swiss influence of the hotel.
- Pomelo: Drinks and light snacks are available by the pool and there is no need to change out of your swimsuit.
Poolside
It was quiet on my floor so I slept in and got up to head to the gym. The gym is for hotel guests and those who are members of the hotel’s club. It is fully equipped with Technogym machines. I had never used these, but they have big screens, Bluetooth technology, and the best part, a fan! There are his and hers locker rooms that include a sauna, showers, and anything you might need to feel clean, like toothbrushes and deodorant.
I then decided to spend the rest of my day lounging by the pool. They have lounge chairs in the shallow end of the pool so you can read and be in the pool. They also have covered lounge chairs and towels. All monogrammed with the hotel logo, of course.
Nearby Amenities
If you want to venture out into the neighborhood, the hotel is in the Harwood Arts District which boasts an opera house, museums, and art galleries. It is a wonderful area to take a stroll.
Special Tips to Make Your Stay More Magical
- Make a reservation at your restaurant of choice before you arrive, this way you will have first dibs on your cuisine.
- The pool and gym are part of a club that is open to Dallas residents. If you want a cabana all day, it would be worth reserving your cabana ahead of time.
- Ask the concierge about special events before you arrive. They offer seasonal events like yoga or Martini Hour.
Read More:
Leave a Reply