The Huntington Hotel

The Huntington Hotel is a quiet, residential-style luxury hotel at 1075 California Street on Nob Hill in San Francisco, California, facing Huntington Park and Grace Cathedral. Nob Hill is the historic home of the city's nineteenth-century railroad and mining fortunes, and the area remains one of its most elegant, with grand hotels, private clubs and cathedral towers on its summit. The California Street cable car line passes the front door, and the Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason lines are a short walk away, while Chinatown, Union Square and the Financial District can all be reached on foot, although the hill's steep streets make the return journey demanding. The hotel's atmosphere differs from the large downtown properties: it is calm and discreet, with a smaller scale and a loyal clientele that values privacy. Accommodation consists of Deluxe King rooms and suites, which are generally spacious and many of which enjoy views of the park, the cathedral or the city. Amenities listed include a spa, a restaurant, a bar and free Wi-Fi. The spa is a well-known feature and gives the hotel a wellness focus uncommon among its Nob Hill neighbours, while the on-site restaurant and bar provide breakfast, dinner and evening drinks in a formal, comfortable setting. The service character is attentive and personalised, with staff accustomed to repeat visitors, long stays and special occasions. The hotel is a good fit for couples, older travellers and guests who want a peaceful base within walking distance of the main sights, rather than a convention-style environment. Nightly rates typically run from about $600 to $1,200, reflecting the luxury positioning and the prime location, with the highest prices during the autumn peak and major events. Visitors should allow extra time for the steep walk up from Union Square or take the California Street cable car, which is an experience in itself. The setting beside Grace Cathedral and Huntington Park makes it one of the more atmospheric stays on the hill.