The Stanford Court, a Renaissance Hotel

Location. Stanford Court, A Renissance Hotel stands in the Nob Hill area of San Francisco, Calif. The hotel is located four blocks from the Grace Cathedral and four blocks from Union Square. The Transamerica Pyramid and Chinatown are one-half mile from the hotel. Coit Tower is one mile away. The hotel provides complimentary weekday transportation to and from the Financial District, located less than one-half mile away.

Hotel Features. This recently renovated Nob Hill retreat remains true to its heritage as the showcase mansion of Leland Stanford while incorporating modern touches, such as Aurea, the inventive restaurant and lounge. Tiffany- style stained-glass domes in the courtyard entrance and Aurea are reminders of the site's glamorous past. Recreational amenities include a fitness center with state-of-the-art cardiovascular and weight training equipment.

Guestrooms. The eight-story Stanford Court, A Renaissance Hotel offers 393 guestrooms designed as a sophisticated urban retreat. Feature include luxury bedding, 37-inch HDTVs, wired and wireless Internet access, laptop-compatible safes, CD player clock radios, reading lights and dual-line telephones. Bathrooms include bathrobes, heated towel racks, and Lather toiletries. Wake-up service includes complimentary coffee and tea. Rooms feature coffeemakers and irons and ironing boards.

Expert Tip. A cable car stop is located adjacent to the hotel and provides transportation to and from attractions throughout San Francisco, including my favorite, the Chinatown Gate that marks the entrance to Chinatown's eclectic shops, restaurants and art galleries.