The Villa by Barton G

Blinding opulence and VIP service in this glitzy palace on iconic Ocean Drive, once owned by Versace

Cameras are flashing as we park next to the velvet rope on Ocean Drive. The iron gates open and, past a big crowd of curious onlookers, we are ushered inside like celebrities. The excitement outside is focused on the former mansion of the deceased fashion designer Gianni Versace, one of the most photographed houses in the US, and not on us, it transpires. But it felt good while it lasted.

Built in 1930 in homage to Christopher Columbus' son's family home, this historic villa with its unique Spanish architecture and distinct reminders of the Versace era, has been exquisitely revamped into a 10-suite boutique hotel by famed event impresario Barton G. Weiss. Inside the intricately tiled courtyard with its restored fountain, we catch glimpses of the magnificent mosaic pool set in a lush garden. Our private butler welcomes us with champagne before taking us on a tour of the hotel - check out the Rooftop Lounge and the Onyx Bar - then onto our suite, as we squint at the dramatic decadence surrounding us.

Spa addict extraordinaire, I glance at the treatment menu and give the Villa Indulgence massage a mental thumbs-up, before the 4-digit price tag makes me choke on my Cristal, and I focus back on the flamboyant décor. Effortlessly blending tasselled textiles, colourful murals, ostentatious blue-and-gold mosaic walls, Greek statues, thick Persian rugs, and faux-Baroque antiques, this sumptuous, luxurious villa is nothing short of spectacular.

Highs

• Dinner in the mosaic pebbled dining room is magical, as is the food. Delicious a la carte breakfast, too. Prices, however, may induce vertigo
• Impeccable service, especially from the private butler catering 24/7 to your every whim
• The garden is of mesmerising beauty, the pool laid with 24k gold tiles
• Such an unusual gilded palace, it is sure to make a lasting impression; a lifetime experience
• Close to fine dining options and nightclubs

Lows

• Rates will be out of reach for many
• Such concentrated lavishness might not be to everyone's taste and could evoke a feeling of guilt
• The villa often hosts exclusive events and weddings, meaning you might not be able to enjoy all public areas - but then again, chances are you will spot a celebrity
• Mink and cashmere throws… really?