— The hotel
SkyPenthouse & SPA with FREE Parking
First Impressions
When I first walked into SkyPenthouse & SPA with FREE Parking, I’ll be honest — the name pretty much tells you everything you need to know. This four-star property sits on the 18th floor of a modern building on Anniņmuižas bulvāris, and the views hit you immediately. It’s not your typical hotel setup either; it feels more like staying in someone’s really well-appointed city apartment than a standard hotel room.
The Space
The penthouse layout is actually quite clever — you get proper living areas with a full kitchen setup, which honestly saved me a fortune on eating out in Riga. The furnishings lean modern without being cold, and there’s enough space that you don’t feel like you’re living out of a suitcase. What really impressed me was how quiet it stays up there, even though you’re right in the city.
Location & Neighborhood
Anniņmuižas bulvāris isn’t exactly Old Town, but that’s actually a good thing if you ask me. You’re in a proper residential area where locals actually live, with decent shops and cafes within walking distance. The Daugava River is close enough for morning runs, and getting into the historic center takes maybe 15 minutes by car or tram. Plus — and this matters more than you’d think — the free parking is a genuine blessing in a city where finding a spot can be a real headache.
The SPA Experience
Now, the spa part isn’t some massive resort-style setup, but it’s thoughtfully done. There’s a sauna that actually gets properly hot (you’d be surprised how many hotel saunas are disappointing), and the treatment options are more personal than what you’d get at bigger places. I mean, when you’re sharing the space with maybe a handful of other guests instead of crowds, it makes a real difference to how relaxed you actually feel.
Why Guests Love It
The 8.6 rating makes sense once you’ve stayed here — it’s the little things that add up. The elevator ride to the 18th floor becomes part of the experience, especially at sunset when the whole city spreads out below you. You get the independence of an apartment rental with actual hotel services when you need them. And honestly, after dealing with Riga’s sometimes tricky restaurant opening hours, having that kitchen means you can eat when you want, not when the city decides you should.
Riga’s apartments welcome long stays with rooftop terraces over red-tile roofs, museum access, and bike routes to Kalnciema courtyards.
