Residence Monastery - Prague, Czech Republic     

We arrived in a taxi at Residence Monastery after 10pm after over 30 hours of travel from Australia and felt like we had come home. On arrival there was no obvious reception, but when we rang the doorbell were told to go up to our room and to check in the next morrning. We had a couple of flights of stairs to go up, which didn't bother us,but might some travellers. There was the real character preserved of the renovated monastery. Walking into our room was just wonderful. On a chilly night it was beautifully warm (including heated bathroom floor), the decor was modern and clean, including a flat screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities. The room was on two levels with the bedroom upstairs in the loft of the building with a view across to the church in the monastery complex. The breakfast, which was included in the room rate was fairly standard, but well presented and there was plenty of food, all in a friendly breakfast room with attentive staff. The Residence Monastery is located above Prague Castle, 5-10 minutes walk downhill. It was also approximately 20 minutes walk down and about half an hour uphill from the Charles Bridge and Old Square. We really didn't mind the walking, and if we got tired, the number 23 tram stopped just outside the Monastery gates. The staff were very friendly and helpful. On our last day they were more than happy to organise a taxi for us, insisting on ensuring the driver was using his meter and advising us of the official rate to make sure we didn't get ripped off. We found a number of small restaurants nearby, and if you get sick of the crowds, there are some nice walks in the forest behind the hotel. One drawback for some people was the church in the Monastery grounds had a bell tower that rang occasionally, although we didn't really notice it. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would very happily stay there again. the only draw back is if you really do want to stay in the old town area.

Four of us visited Prague and stayed at the Monastery. It is just outside the centre and on a tram route which took us into the centre in just a few minutes. It looks down on Prague Castle and there are some spectacular views. This small but attractive hotel is very far from the usual idea of a monastery. Absolutely no bare cells or being woken at dawn! The rooms were spacious, well furnished and very clean, with lovely bathrooms (underfloor heating made them very cosy) All the usual amenities were offered, tea and coffee making facilities, mini-bar etc.The hotel is next to the church and situated at the edge of a lawned area with shady seats. The breakfast was varied and served in an area next to the reception. The staff were very helpful and most spoke excellent English. There were several bars and restaurants nearby but it's very easy to get into the centre. We had a peaceful, relaxing stay there and I would definitely go back.