The boutique hotel, situated off a main road in Beaconsfield is truly a unique and unforgettable experience – one Zenith has been eager to try for a while. From the moment you set foot on the property, you’re transported into a world of eccentricity and extravagance. The hotel’s interior design expertly combines modern aesthetics, taxidermy animals on the walls (including a giraffe, zebra and antelopes) and an abundance of velvet accents.
Velvet seems to adorn every surface, from wall and doors to ceilings, creating a plush and opulent atmosphere throughout the entire hotel. Upon entering the hotel, we were ushered to our suite. Jaw-dropping was the only way to describe what happened when he opened the door, it took me a minute to realise where we were.
The rooms at the Crazy Bear are extraordinary, with velvet adorning every surface from the ceiling to the panelled walls. Large thick purple-velvet curtains, framed in thick gold trimming, enveloped the two large windows on either side of the room. Huge Moroccan style chandeliers frame the large TV in the reception area of the room and the reason we came – a copper bathtub in all its glory stood triumphant in the centre of the room. The only way to fill it up? Turn the faucet on and watch as the water fills the tub from the ceiling. Each room is uniquely decorated, with its own personality and charm.
The lavishness continues throughout the hotel with rich colours, plush furnishings, and intricate details, all designed to make you feel like royalty. It is truly a destination that leaves a lasting impression. It’s an extravagant escape for those looking for an unforgettable stay.
As we were taking a tour of the hotel, we were stunned to find a Moroccan-style lounge area – with an indoor heated pool. With low pleated ceilings, Moroccan-style low tables and chairs and intimately light corners, the interiors are a sensory feast of rich, vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and sumptuous textures. Plush furnishings adorned with ornate cushions create a sense of timeless grandeur. The attention to detail. It was astounding, with every nook and cranny adorned with exquisite artefacts, lanterns, and furnishings that capture the essence of Moroccan design. It truly made you feel as though you’ve stepped into a riad in the heart of Marrakech!
Akin to a Moroccan riad, at the centre of the Moroccan-inspired area was an indoor heated pool. This area, with its domed ceiling, evoked the feeling of being in an authentic Moroccan riad court- yard, albeit with a modern twist. The dimly lit ambiance adds to the overall mystique, making it an ideal spot for a romantic get- away or a tranquil retreat. The pool area is beautifully designed, offering a serene escape from the outside world, with ornate tiling and crystal-clear water. It’s the perfect place to unwind and re- juvenate, whether you’re taking a leisurely swim or simply relaxing by the water’s edge or the bub- bling jacuzzi.
Dining at the Crazy Bear Hotel is not just about the luxurious ambiance but also a culinary journey that elevates your taste buds. 7 doors down from the hotel stands a Thai haven. The dinner experience at this exceptional establishment is keen on combining luxury with expertly crafted dishes.
We began our culinary adventure with a delightful starter, the crispy calamari. The dish was a testament to the chef’s skill, as the calamari was cooked to perfection – golden and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside. The accompanying dipping sauce added a zesty kick that perfectly complemented the mild sweetness of the calamari. It was a fantastic start to our meal.
The main course, a Panang curry with egg-fried rice, was a flavour explosion. The Panang curry was rich and creamy with a subtle heat that tantalised the taste buds without overwhelming them. The combination of tender vegetables and the aromatic curry sauce was nothing short of sublime. A nice surprise? Whole lychees, the verdict still stands if we welcomed this addition. Paired with the fragrant and fluffy egg-fried rice, it was a harmonious blend of textures and flavours.
To cap off the evening on a sweet note, we indulged in the flourless brownie, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. The brownie was dense and decadent, with a deep chocolate flavour that wasn’t overly sweet. The fact that it was flourless made it even more rich and fudgy, a perfect ending to a savoury (and at points fiery) Thai dinner.
Overall, Zenith’s weekend stay was nothing short of overwhelming from the food to the decor; it was something we could have only imagined. With delightful Thai cuisine and quirky interiors, The Crazy Bear hotel offers a complete sensory journey for the discerning guest.
