In the heart of Milan’s fashion district, The Carlton is a new expression of the Rocco Forte Hotels’ approach to hospitality, bringing together Italian heritage, contemporary design, wellness and gastronomy under one roof.
During our time at The Carlton, we wanted to discover two experiences that invite you to enjoy Milan at a slower, more personal pace: an indulgent facial at the Irene Forte Spa, followed by dinner at Spiga, the hotel’s Italian restaurant led by Chef Fulvio Pierangelini.
Our experience began at the Irene Forte Spa, a 280-square-metre space inspired by the natural landscapes and Mediterranean heritage of Italy. Rather than feeling like a conventional hotel spa, the space unfolds organically, with sinuous walls, warm terracotta tones, natural woods and intimate treatment areas designed to encourage a sense of calm from the moment you arrive.
The experience continued with a facial at the Forte Vita Bar, where Irene Forte Skincare’s philosophy meets advanced technology and highly personalised treatments. From the initial skin analysis to the treatment itself, every detail is designed around the individual needs of the guest, combining high-performance skincare with techniques that leave the skin refreshed, luminous and revitalised.
After slowing down at the spa, we shifted from wellbeing to one of Italy’s other great pleasures: food.
At Spiga, Chef Fulvio Pierangelini takes a deliberately uncomplicated approach to Italian cuisine, allowing seasonal ingredients to take centre stage. The menu evolves with the seasons, with dishes that feel refined without becoming overly technical — a philosophy that is reflected in the restaurant itself.
Designed by Olga Polizzi in collaboration with Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen, Spiga is intimate and quietly elegant, with deep greens, muted pinks, soft finishes and a carefully curated art collection. The setting creates the perfect backdrop for a dining experience that feels sophisticated without losing its warmth.
What makes The Carlton particularly interesting is the way these experiences complement one another. A facial designed to restore and revitalise, followed by a meal rooted in the simplicity and richness of Italian tradition — two very different expressions of the same idea: taking a moment to slow down and appreciate the experience.
In a city that moves at Milan’s pace, The Carlton offers its own rhythm — one that invites guests to pause, indulge and experience the city through beauty, wellness, design and food.