The location: Fountain Court's five-star EQ2 apartments are located on Lower Gilmore Bank in Fountainbridge, overlooking the Union Canal and a handful of trendy bars and restaurants. It's just a short walk to Lothian Road and five minutes further to Princes Street.
The check-in: Arrived two hours before the official check-in time but the apartment was ready nonetheless. Cheery service from the receptionist that checked us in and gave a quick briefing on facilities, the various access keys and directions to the city centre.
The apartment: The two-floor, three-bedroom penthouse apartment was vast! A spacious kitchen was equipped with cooker, microwave, dishwasher and washing machine, as well as enough cutlery and crockery to entertain a party of eight. A breakfast pack – including bread, butter, milk, cereal and fruit juice – was replenished daily. The open-plan lounge and dining room was smart, light and modern, and featured chunky leather sofas, wall-mounted flat-screen TV, CD/DVD player, satellite TV, dining table and sliding doors to a small balcony. A toilet, trouser press and ironing facilities completed the line up. Upstairs, the master bedroom had an ensuite shower and toilet, wardrobe, mini-safe, hair dryer, television, dressing table and balcony. A second double bedroom had similar facilities minus the ensuite and balcony, and there's a smaller third bedroom too with double bed. A spacious bathroom with an excellent shower came with Molton Brown toileteries.
The facilities: There was complimentary wireless internet and a phone line with its own number for direct incoming calls. Parking is £6 per day. A cashpoint is just a stroll away and several supermarkets are nearby, plus there's a 24 hour reception and mobile contact number should staff be away from the desk.
The CHECKOUT: Dropped off the keys and was told the taxi I'd put in a request for the previous day was ready and waiting.
The verdict: A top quality apartment, stylishly furnished, modern and light, with great views over the city skyline to Edinburgh Castle. Well equipped and plenty of room to relax. In a great location – central, yet quiet – with plenty of good local amenities nearby.
The details: EQ2 is one of four Fountain Court locations throughout the city. Rates start from £140 per night for a one-bedroom apart-ment in low season and rise to £415 per night for a three-bedroom penthouse apartment in peak season. Minimum stays can apply during peak periods. Tel: 0131 622 6677; See: www.fountaincourtapartments.com Andy Hoskins
