The new Mansion sits across the street from Forsyth Park and within walking distance of much of the historic district.

The latest place to lodge in Savannah may very well be its best. Mansion on Forsyth Park combines classic with contemporary. It isn't a stuffy historic play on this iconic locale. The Mansion creates a fresh, chic destination while celebrating its storied city.

Where You Sleep
Located on Forsyth Park on the south end of the historic district, the Mansion's cornerstone is an 18,000-square-foot manor. Next door, a new building mirrors the Romanesque architecture, looking as if it has been there for decades.

Each room boasts at least 450 square feet and includes vintage or whirlpool tubs, flat-screen TVs, and original artwork.	More than 400 original works of art grace the Mansion in the public areas and the guest rooms.

Step into the lavish black-and-gold lobby where marble columns and front desk, a crystal table, and an antique chandelier set off the Versace furnishings. Over the top? Maybe, but in a fun and jazzy way.

Oil paintings adorn the walls--some contemporary, others antique. Owner Richard C. Kessler handpicked the more than 400 original pieces of art. If that's not enough, three Viennese Bösendorfer pianos grace the hotel.

As opulent as the public areas are, it's the 126 guest rooms and 6 suites that satisfy visitors. Each boasts a marble bath with tub and a roomy shower. A friendly sage wall color sets off a white bed. All but 13 rooms have king-size beds, while the others offer two queen-size ones. An Italian marble writing desk, antique mirrored nightstands, a velvet sofa, candelabra, and an armoire with a 27-inch flat-screen TV complete the environment.

The Poseidon Spa offers massage therapy and body treatments, as well as yoga classes, a cardio workout facility, and steam rooms.	Guests staying on the Bohemian Floor have a London taxi ready to motor them anywhere in Savannah.

Like hotels new and old, each room isn't quite equal. The second level, dubbed the Bohemian Floor, offers an innovative bath design featuring beautiful draped walls. Rates for rooms on this floor range $299-$469, depending upon the view.

The least expensive rooms face the back of the property, the side streets, and the courtyard. These start at $249, while those facing the park start at $279. If that seems steep, consider that Savannah's historic inns typically begin in that price range too.