If you’re dreaming of a trip to South Korea, chances are a truly luxurious stay is on your radar. And when it comes to urban retreats that redefine relaxation and indulgence, The Shilla Seoul stands out. This THE SHILLA Seoul Review will guide you through every aspect of a truly remarkable stay.
I had the pleasure of experiencing a “Hocance” (a hotel-staycation) in their Deluxe Double Room during mid-March. It was an absolute dream, a complete immersion into the hotel’s every facet, offering true rest and recharge.
Join me as I take you on a detailed journey through my stay, from the grand lobby to the serene poolside, the invigorating fitness club, and the gastronomic delights of The Parkview breakfast.
Welcome to Wonderland: The Grand Lobby & A Seamless Check-In for Your THE SHILLA Seoul Review
Stepping into The Shilla Seoul is like entering a different world. The moment you cross the threshold, you’re greeted by an overwhelming sense of grandeur and sophistication.
The soaring ceilings and the dazzling chandelier, a masterpiece by artist Park Sung-gi, immediately capture your gaze. It’s more than just decor; it’s art that sets the stage for an unforgettable experience, enveloping you in an aura of luxury and comfort. This grand entrance truly signals the majestic beginning of your Hocance.
The welcome doesn’t stop there. From the doormen who warmly greet you to the attentive staff who swiftly handle your luggage, every interaction is imbued with genuine care. They even deliver your bags directly to your room, ensuring you can shed all travel burdens the moment you arrive.
While Executive Room guests enjoy express check-in on the 23rd floor (and even early check-in on weekdays!), the main lobby check-in for the Deluxe Double Room was still incredibly efficient and hospitable.
The Shilla truly understands that the lobby and check-in are more than just a formality; they’re the crucial first impression. The magnificent design, the artistic touches, and the incredibly refined service immediately create a sense of tranquility and exclusivity. It’s an art form in itself!
My Sanctuary: The Deluxe Double Room – Comfort Meets Class in this THE SHILLA Seoul Review
Space & Ambiance
My Deluxe Double Room was a generous 36 square meters, perfectly designed for two adults. It included a comfortable bedroom, a stylish bathroom, and a separate toilet. The space felt incredibly airy.
Located between the 7th and 22nd floors, these rooms offer various perspectives. I highly recommend the Namsan View. Looking out at the lush greenery felt incredibly therapeutic – truly an optimal environment for “healing.” Some rooms even offered a peek at the pool below, adding another charming element.
The overall lighting and interior design create a calm, cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. While not brand new, the room was impeccably clean and perfectly maintained, exceeding all my expectations for comfort.
The Sleep & Sit Experience
The king-sized double bed was a cloud of comfort, with crisp, pristine linens that promised and delivered the most restorative sleep. It truly washed away any lingering fatigue from my travels.
The room also featured a comfy sofa and a separate table by the window – ideal for relaxing with a book, sipping coffee, or even catching up on a bit of work while enjoying the view.
And for those modern necessities, a kit with various chargers was thoughtfully provided. A small but significant touch that speaks volumes about their attention to guest convenience.
Bathroom Bliss: A Molton Brown Dream
The bathroom was a highlight, with the shower and toilet neatly separated by glass doors, ensuring a fresh and hygienic space. The bathtub was remarkably spacious, easily fitting two adults – perfect for a leisurely soak.
What made it even more special was the large window connecting to the main room. Imagine soaking while gazing at the Namsan view or catching up on your favorite show on TV! Of course, a discreet blind ensures your privacy when needed.
Now, let’s talk amenities. The Shilla provides luxurious Molton Brown products. Honestly, the shampoo and conditioner left my hair feeling incredibly soft and smelling divine. I was so impressed, I actually considered buying them for home! This level of detail is something I always highlight in a thorough THE SHILLA Seoul Review.
The lingering scent of the body lotion was equally delightful. And to complete the pampering experience, plush, high-quality bathrobes were readily available, adding to the overall feeling of indulgence.
Oasis in the City: Urban Island (Outdoor Pool) & Indoor Pool in THE SHILLA Seoul Review
Urban Island: A Slice of Paradise
The Shilla Seoul’s outdoor pool, Urban Island, is truly an exotic oasis in the heart of the city. Beyond the main pool, there’s a warm Jacuzzi on the second floor and a dedicated kids’ pool, offering something for everyone.
My personal favorite spot was the sunbed area where you can lie back and gaze directly at N Seoul Tower. It’s easily the best spot! Each room gets two complimentary sunbeds, but it’s first-come, first-served, so if you want that prime real estate, arrive early.
In the evenings, they even screen movies (like Van Gogh and Peppa Pig!) by the pool, creating a wonderfully atmospheric experience. The illuminated N Seoul Tower against the night sky is incredibly romantic.
You can tell they pay great attention to water quality, and on cooler days, the warm Jacuzzi or the (paid) heating zone are absolute saviors.
Urban Island Tips: Operating hours vary seasonally (e.g., May 1-14, 10:00-20:00; May 15-June 30, 10:00-22:00). Children under 140cm must be accompanied by an adult and wear a life vest in the adult pool, while infants under 36 months need a swimsuit and waterproof diaper.
Diving is prohibited, and only tubes under 1m in diameter are allowed in the kids’ pool. If it gets too crowded, you might have to wait for entry. My top tip for grabbing a good sunbed (on the first floor) is to head there right after check-in. Otherwise, consider visiting between 4 PM and 6 PM, or in the early morning/late evening before check-out, as it tends to be less busy.
Indoor Pool: Year-Round Serenity
The indoor pool boasts a 25m x 6m lap pool, a dry sauna, and indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis. What truly sets it apart is the glass dome roof that offers stunning Namsan views as you swim.
When the indoor pool’s folding doors are fully opened, it feels almost like an outdoor pool, bringing in a fantastic sense of openness. This retractable ceiling allows for an outdoor atmosphere on beautiful days, truly blurring the lines between indoor and out.
It’s generally less crowded than the outdoor pool, making it a perfect spot for a quieter swim or some relaxed family fun with kids. Plus, swimming caps are available for free rental, which is a nice touch!
Recharge Your Batteries: The Fitness Club Experience at THE SHILLA Seoul
Facilities & Offerings
Located on the 3rd floor, The Shilla Seoul’s Fitness Club is meticulously designed for holistic wellness. It seamlessly blends areas for systematic physical training with spaces for ultimate relaxation.
They offer a wide array of state-of-the-art exercise equipment and even run Group Exercise (GX) programs. Whether you’re into calming Yoga (Vinyasa, Flow, Hatha), Mat Pilates, Core Stretching, or more energetic options like Zumba Dance and Aerobics Mix, there’s something to suit every preference and fitness level. For those seeking a more personalized approach, Personal Training is also available.
Hours & Regulations
The gym is open from 05:30 to 22:30, making it incredibly convenient to maintain your fitness routine even during your Hocance. While they close on the third Wednesday of every month (subject to change on public holidays like Chuseok), the extended hours are a huge plus.
Please note that the Fitness Club is accessible to guests aged 16 and over. You must wear proper athletic wear and indoor athletic shoes, but here’s a fantastic perk: training clothes and socks are available for free rental, saving you precious luggage space! For everyone’s safety, access may be restricted if you’ve been drinking.
A Feast for the Senses: The Parkview Breakfast Buffet in THE SHILLA Seoul Review
Hands down, The Shilla Seoul’s The Parkview breakfast buffet is legendary. It consistently ranks among the top hotel breakfasts, and after experiencing it, I wholeheartedly agree! This part of your THE SHILLA Seoul Review is vital for food lovers.
A Culinary Journey
The Parkview’s breakfast is a true feast, offering an impressive array that transcends typical hotel buffets. Guests can savor a diverse selection of high-quality dishes spanning Korean, Western, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines, alongside fresh seafood, comforting live station specials, and a delightful assortment of desserts and refreshing beverages.
Ambiance & Views
Breakfast is served from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM. If you snag a window seat, you’ll be treated to views of Namsan Tower or the charming ground-level lounge, making your meal even more enjoyable. My tip? Arrive early to secure one of those coveted window spots for the most picturesque dining experience.
Quality & Satisfaction
The consistent feedback on The Parkview is that not only is the variety extensive, but the overall quality of the food is exceptionally high. The meats, Chinese dishes, and salmon were particularly noteworthy for their freshness and perfectly balanced flavors. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that feels truly worth every penny, providing value far beyond its cost.
The Full Experience: Other Facilities & Services at THE SHILLA Seoul
Guerlain Spa: A Sanctuary for the Senses
On the 3rd floor, you’ll find the Guerlain Spa, a true haven for healing. With expertise passed down from Guerlain’s 185-year-old Paris headquarters, their specialists offer treatments that perfectly blend with the serene views of Namsan. It’s the ideal spot to melt away the stresses of city life, offering packages like 120-minute sessions for one or 60-minute sessions for two.
Pastry Boutique: Edible Art
Located just to the right of the lobby, the Pastry Boutique is a feast for the eyes, resembling a high-end jewelry boutique with its exquisite displays. Here, you’ll discover artisanal pastries and baked goods crafted by master patissiers.
They are particularly famous for their cakes, renowned for their beautiful, sophisticated designs and exceptional quality. Seasonal delights like fig tarts and cream cheese tarts are available, alongside macarons, dacquoises, and other delectable desserts. And for a cute souvenir, keep an eye out for the adorable Shilla Rabbit Bear keychains – they’re a huge hit!
Other Facilities & Impeccable Service
The Shilla also boasts an indoor golf driving range, beautiful walking trails, jogging courses, and an arcade, ensuring there’s always something to keep you entertained within the hotel.
But what truly elevates The Shilla experience is the staff service. From the moment you arrive, with staff eagerly taking your luggage and delivering it to your room, to every interaction throughout your stay, the genuine hospitality and thoughtfulness are palpable.
They even offer a complimentary shuttle service within the extensive hotel grounds, making it easy to navigate. Overall, the flawless service and friendliness characteristic of a 5-star hotel truly make your Hocance here feel exceptionally special and deeply satisfying. This comprehensive THE SHILLA Seoul Review aims to capture every detail.
Klook.comHotel Price & Booking
THE SHILLA Seoul is more than just a luxury hotel—it’s a brand deeply rooted in Korean hospitality, offering a refined retreat at the base of Namsan Mountain. With its secluded ambiance and impeccable service, it’s often chosen by discerning travelers seeking calm within the city.
Room rates typically start around KRW 350,000 to KRW 500,000 for standard rooms, while Executive Room types or Suites—especially with lounge access—can easily go beyond KRW 700,000 to KRW 1,200,000, particularly during peak season.
💬 When I booked my stay, I found that prices on Agoda and Trip.com were consistently lower than on the official site—especially for Executive rooms with breakfast and lounge access.
🔗 Trip.com – Check current rates → [Click here]
🔗 Agoda – View the latest deals → [Click here]
My Verdict: The Shilla Seoul – A Masterclass in Relaxation and Indulgence
My “Hocance” in a Deluxe Double Room at The Shilla Seoul was a truly unforgettable blend of grandeur and comfort. With impeccable facilities, world-class service, and culinary excellence, it’s a premier urban escape that delivers genuine rest and rejuvenation. This THE SHILLA Seoul Review confirms it’s a top choice for luxury in the city.
About the Author
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