Curator’s statement
While visiting Panama, I had the opportunity to conduct a site visit of the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo. It's a new hotel, just opened in December 2022 and is situated in the historic district of Panama City, called Casco Viejo, a UNESCO protected site. The hotel provides an excellent waterfront location while only being steps away from restaurants, shops and historic buildings nearby. The hotel has a fascinating history; it was once called the Union Club, built in 1917 for use as an elite social club. It was then abandoned for over 30 years until the Sofitel Legend decided to transform the historical site into a luxurious hotel.
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Rooms:
The hotel has 159 rooms, with each room having views of either the Pacific Ocean, the interior Plaza or the Casco Viejo neighborhood. Most rooms average in size of 40 square meters, with many offering balconies overlooking the ocean with even downtown Panama City in the distance. There are also 35 suites which allow guests to have separate living and sleeping areas. The rooms are beautiful with a perfect blend of timeless historic touches and modern amenities.
Here is a quick overview of room types:
Superior King with Plaza or Ocean view
Luxury Queen with Historic city view
Luxury King with Plaza view or Oceanfront, both with terrace and sitting area
Magnifique King with Plaza, Historic city, or Oceanfront view and balcony with sitting area
Magnifique Full with Two Beds with Plaza view and balcony with sitting area
Pool/Spa/Fitness:
Recognized as the largest pool deck in Casco Viejo, the stunning pool sits ocean front to the Pacific Ocean offering gorgeous views from every lounge chair. There is a covered juice bar and food and beverage service as well. There is also a luxurious spa and a 24- hour fitness center on site.
Restaurants and Public Spaces:
There are a variety of food and beverage choices at the property.
Calata Restaurant - Led by Michelin starred Executive Chef, Lorenzo Di Gravio, Calata is a refined Mediterranean Brasserie centered on seafood and fresh local ingredients. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Ammi Bar - This rooftop bar offers incredible views of the ocean and skyline. The skybar has an indoor dining space and dance floor.
Mayda Bar - Located near the lobby entrance guests can choose to sit inside and enjoy Mayda's specialities or enjoy a table at the outdoor Plaza overlooking the ocean. In the afternoon, guests have the option to enjoy a signature afternoon tea.
Pool Bar - Located just below the Plaza terrace, in the morning it serves fresh juices and smoothies and come midday healthy snacks, bowls and a variety of drinks are served poolside.
Vera Cafe - Open every day from 7am-6pm, guests can enjoy a specialty coffee alongside breakfast pastries, gourmet sandwiches and other grab and go treats.
I think this would be a great choice for guests looking for a luxurious getaway in the heart of the old district of Panama. It would also be a terrific location for family travelers and business travelers, too.
Need to know
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Panama. In need of further inspiration? Check out Barbara Zerbe’s guide, Time to Unwind on a Panamanian Beach.
Travel Advisor
Laura Cox
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