7 days ago
I Spent Four Days at the Gorgeous Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Hotel in Panama—and I Seriously Felt Like Royalty
From the moment I stepped foot into the lobby of the stunning Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Hotel in Panama City, Panama, I knew I was somewhere special. (It didn't hurt that the luxury hotel sits in the heart of a historic Panama City district on the site of the former Club Union, which once hosted the likes of Albert Einstein and Queen Elizabeth).
Courtesy of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama
From the incredibly friendly welcome to the gorgeous, nautical-themed lobby decor, I was immediately at home (and already getting that "I don't want to have to leave" anxiety).
Here, my full review of the historic Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Hotel—and why the hotel alone is worth the trip to Panama.
Original Photo by Philip Mutz
The hotel itself is prominently located in the beautiful, history-filled—and extremely walkable—Casco Viejo, or Old Town. The area has been designated a World Heritage Site, meaning it should be a must-visit on every world traveler's (or history buff's) list.
The hotel was a 1917 landmark, home of Club Union, a social club where business and non-business took place for decades. It hosted everyone from Queen Elizabeth (I spotted a photo of her arriving in Panama on the hotel wall) and Einstein (pretty cool) to Charles Lindbergh (meh, slightly less exciting).
It was hard not to feel that sense of history the moment I walked through the front doors. That said, nothing about this Sofitel Legend hotel feels old—quite the contrary. My stay was full of luxury pampering, contemporary comfort, cutting-edge cuisine and lively and on-trend entertainment.
In fact, the first thing I did was visit the Sofitel Spa by KOS Paris, a luxe and modern escape after a long day of travel. My 60-minute deep tissue massage was excellent and perfectly set the tone for my trip—and got me into "vacation-mode" immediately.
Courtesy of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama
My room was exquisite. I kept walking around saying, "Oh my God..." to myself. And the walk around the room was a long one because the one-bedroom suite is huge. (No surprise: I put a robe and slippers on right away.)
My suite featured a large and comfortable living room area, where I was greeted by a decadent spread of local fruits, homemade macarons and a bottle of Veuve. If the spa didn't put me in the vacation headspace, sampling red pitahaya and guava with a glass of chilled Champagne certainly did.
Original Photo by Philip Mutz
The bed was large and so comfortable. My side table even featured a sleep guide that allowed me to order pillows to my firmness specifications (this wasn't necessary for me as the pillows were perfect). As with any hotel stay, I couldn't wait to star-fish during my first night of sleep.
Courtesy of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama
The showstopper of the suite had to be the bathroom though. I'm talking a giant bathtub with a fabulous view of downtown Panama City. The tile was beautiful, the vanity was spacious and the shower was large enough for two (there were two showerhead setups) if that's your sort of thing.
Original Photo by Philip Mutz
As sometimes happens, I feared I wouldn't want to leave my room. Honestly, I could have spent my four days entirely in there, alternating between luxurious baths, star-fishing and sipping Champagne on my giant wrap-around, waterfront balcony, also featuring a view of the downtown area.
But as amazing as my homebase for the week was, I'm so glad I ventured out of my room...
Original Photo by Philip Mutz
There are quite a few must-try dining and drinking establishments on the Sofitel Legend property. Each one is unique, with a carefully-crafted menu and plenty of whimsical surprises (like my pad of garlic butter—seen above—presented in the shape of Panama).
As far as dining goes, whether you're staying on property or not, I highly recommend a visit to Caleta on the ground floor. Michelin-starred Executive Chef Lorenzo Di Gravio has created a menu unlike anything I've ever tried before. Caleta should certainly be on the must-try list for any seafood lover (be sure to order the Croaker Cooked in Clay—I had a lot of fun using my tiny mallet to smash the clay to reveal the delectable fish, served with beurre blanc and rainbow carrots). And I suggest asking the very knowledgable sommelier to assist in choosing wines to pair perfectly with your courses—her recs were spot-on.
Original Photo by Philip Mutz
I also recommend popping up to the Sofitel Legend's rooftop for one of two great stops. First, there is Ammi, a bar and lounge featuring yummy craft cocktails, tasty bites and amazing views of the water and the surrounding city. (Stopping by at night is particularly magical.)
Then, don't leave without heading next door to the rooftop speakeasy, Arcano (the entry password changes daily, but if you ask nicely, they'll probably help you out at the door). The cocktail lounge is cool and sophisticated, with expert mixologists behind the bar. I suggest ordering a rum cocktail—something Arcano is known for. And if you're heading by on a weekend, be sure to make a reservation. Both nights I visited Arcano, the place was hopping in the best way possible.
And just as I'm so glad I stepped outside of my room, I'm equally glad I didn't spend all of my time at the hotel (though I did spend plenty there)...
Original Photo by Philip Mutz
Panama City is incredible. I'm so happy I had the chance to stay in Old Town. Definitely book a walking tour—I learned a ton from my expert guide, including part of the city's history as a target of pirates (seriously!). Old Town also features plenty of shopping and cute places to grab a bite, drink or gelato.
I recommend seeing downtown a bit too if you can. I had a delicious lunch at Cantina del Tigre (you will definitely need a reservation as the place was packed with locals and visitors).
Of course, no visit to Panama would be complete without a stop at the Panama Canal, the eighth wonder of the world. There really aren't words to describe how impressive the canal is. Take in the Morgan Freeman-narrated IMAX movie first to learn a bit of the backstory and then step outside to see the canal in all its glory. If you time things right, like I did, you'll get to see an enormous tanker being dramatically lowered as its onboard inhabitants wave to you on land.
Original Photo by Philip Mutz
One special suggestion for Panama City visitors? If you have time, take a day trip to Pearl Island (seen above). I braved my fear of little airplanes to hop over to the Pearl Island Beach Club, where I enjoyed a day of sun and fun by the pool and the beach, complete with cocktails, bites and a beachfront massage. This oasis is quite exclusive and provided a lovely respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Courtesy of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama
A final recommendation: Copa Airlines is the way to get to Panama City. My flight was direct from NYC (a must), my seat was surprisingly spacious and they even got us into Panama extra early (more bonus vacation time!).
Needless to say, Panama City should definitely be atop your list of places to visit. And the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo is the ideal place to stay if you really want to relax, indulge and feel like royalty. I, for one, can't wait to go back.
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