In April stay in a revived  Russian imperial palace when Four Seasons Lion Palace opens  in the former 19th century Lobanov-Rostovsky residence in the historic Admiralteysky district, two blocks from the Hermitage Museum and close to Nevsky Prospekt. Guarded by two marble lions, (hence the name) the  hotel will have 177 guest rooms, including 26 suites with views of Saint Isaac's Cathedral, Alexandrovksy Garden and the landmark Admiralty. We particularly like the idea of the glass-topped spa.