Standing as a symbol of elegance and rich history in the heart of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Hotel Le Royal offers an unparalleled blend of colonial charm and modern luxury. Originally opened in 1929, this hotel has played a prominent role in Cambodian history, hosting royalty, dignitaries, and prominent figures from across the world. Part of the prestigious Raffles Hotels & Resorts group, Hotel Le Royal is a haven for travelers seeking to experience the cultural essence and historical significance of Cambodia while enjoying world-class amenities and service.
Historical Background
Hotel Le Royal, located strategically in Phnom Penh, was constructed during the French colonial era and opened in 1929. Designed to reflect the grandeur of early 20th-century architecture, the hotel features French colonial elements combined with Khmer influences, a style preserved through careful renovations.
During the Cambodian Civil War in the 1970s, the hotel became a refuge for journalists, diplomats, and international figures, famously housing foreign correspondents covering the conflict. In the 1990s, the Raffles group took over the hotel, carefully restoring its historical elements while modernizing its facilities, reopening it in 1997 as Raffles Hotel Le Royal. Since then, the hotel has continued to be a landmark of luxury and history in Cambodia’s capital city.
Accommodations
Hotel Le Royal offers a range of elegantly appointed rooms and suites that balance historical charm with modern comforts. The accommodations are classified into rooms, suites, and signature suites, each offering a unique ambiance and spectacular views of the city or the hotel’s lush gardens.
State Rooms
The State Rooms at Hotel Le Royal are designed with a blend of French and Khmer aesthetics, offering a cozy yet sophisticated setting. These rooms feature polished wood floors, ceiling fans, and hand-woven silk fabrics, which reflect Cambodia’s artistic heritage. Equipped with king-sized or twin beds, en-suite marble bathrooms, and modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars, these rooms provide an ideal blend of luxury and comfort.
Landmark Rooms
Landmark Rooms provide a step up in luxury with more spacious layouts and elegant decor. Designed with high ceilings and furnished with antique-style furniture, these rooms offer a sense of the hotel’s rich history. Some Landmark Rooms also feature private balconies with views over the pool or the lush gardens, perfect for enjoying the Phnom Penh sunset.
Personality Suites
Named after famous figures who have stayed at the hotel, the Personality Suites are among the most coveted accommodations at Hotel Le Royal. These suites are dedicated to icons like Jacqueline Kennedy and Somerset Maugham, with decor and artifacts that pay homage to their stays. Each suite includes a separate living area, a large bedroom, and unique memorabilia, providing guests with a personalized, luxurious experience steeped in history.
Royal Suite
The Royal Suite represents the pinnacle of luxury at Hotel Le Royal. With an expansive layout, regal decor, and opulent furnishings, the suite offers two bedrooms, a private dining room, a study, and multiple balconies with stunning views. This suite is a choice for VIPs and guests seeking the utmost in comfort and exclusivity.
Dining
Dining at Hotel Le Royal is a memorable experience, with several renowned restaurants and bars offering a diverse range of culinary options, from authentic Khmer dishes to international cuisine.
Restaurant Le Royal
Restaurant Le Royal is the hotel’s signature dining venue, offering a mix of Cambodian and French cuisine. With a menu crafted by talented chefs, guests can enjoy traditional Khmer dishes, such as Amok and Beef Lok Lak, alongside classic French dishes. Known for its refined ambiance, Restaurant Le Royal provides an elegant dining experience, with dishes expertly paired with wines from the hotel’s extensive cellar.
Café Monivong
Café Monivong offers a more relaxed dining atmosphere with a buffet-style breakfast and à la carte options for lunch and dinner. With a focus on international cuisine, guests can choose from an array of dishes inspired by flavors from around the world. The café’s bright and airy setting makes it a popular spot for casual dining.
Elephant Bar
One of the most iconic features of Hotel Le Royal, the Elephant Bar is a sophisticated venue known for its classic cocktails, extensive selection of wines and spirits, and a unique drink named the Femme Fatale, created specifically for Jacqueline Kennedy during her stay. Decorated with historical memorabilia and offering live jazz music, the Elephant Bar transports guests to a bygone era of glamour and elegance.
Amenities and Services
Hotel Le Royal offers a range of amenities designed to provide guests with a comfortable and memorable stay.
Raffles Spa
The Raffles Spa is a sanctuary of relaxation and wellness, offering a variety of treatments that draw inspiration from local healing traditions and natural ingredients. The spa features several treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam room, and a whirlpool. Guests can indulge in massages, facials, and body treatments that promote well-being and rejuvenation.
Swimming Pool and Gardens
The hotel’s two swimming pools are set amidst lush, tropical gardens, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Guests can relax by the poolside, enjoy light refreshments, and take in the serene ambiance surrounded by palm trees and vibrant flora.
Business and Event Facilities
For business travelers and event organizers, Hotel Le Royal offers versatile meeting and event spaces. The hotel has several conference rooms and a grand ballroom that can accommodate events of various sizes, from intimate meetings to lavish weddings. The dedicated events team is on hand to assist with planning and ensure every detail is handled professionally.
Boutique and Gift Shop
The hotel’s boutique offers a curated selection of luxury products, including Cambodian handicrafts, silk scarves, and souvenirs. It’s a convenient spot for guests to pick up unique gifts or mementos of their stay at this iconic hotel.
Exploring Phnom Penh and Surroundings
Hotel Le Royal’s prime location in central Phnom Penh makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s cultural and historical attractions.
Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
Located just a short distance from the hotel, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are among Phnom Penh’s most important landmarks. The palace, with its golden spires and intricate Khmer architecture, is a breathtaking example of Cambodia’s royal heritage. Visitors can explore the Silver Pagoda, which houses the Emerald Buddha, a revered religious artifact.
National Museum of Cambodia
The National Museum of Cambodia offers a fascinating insight into Cambodian art, history, and culture. Just a short drive from the hotel, the museum houses an extensive collection of sculptures, ceramics, and artifacts dating back to the Angkor period.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
For those interested in Cambodia’s more recent history, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum serves as a somber reminder of the Khmer Rouge era. Once a high school, the building was converted into a prison by the Khmer Rouge and now serves as a museum dedicated to remembering the atrocities of that time.
With its rich history, luxurious accommodations, and world-class amenities, Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience that captures the heart and spirit of Cambodia. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or business, the hotel provides a setting where you can enjoy both the comforts of modern luxury and the elegance of a bygone era. From its distinguished restaurants to the iconic Elephant Bar and the serene Raffles Spa, Hotel Le Royal continues to be a premier destination for discerning travelers seeking a unique, historical experience in the heart of Phnom Penh.
