Chateau Marmont, Los Angeles

The Chateau Marmont was built as the first deluxe high-rise apartment complex on Sunset Boulevard, opening its doors in February of 1929. Its gothic charm and old-world European flair were inspired by the Chateau Amboise in the Loire Valley, where Leonardo da Vinci was said to have spent his final years.

With each passing decade, every Hollywood icon of its generation -- from Greta Garbo and Clark Gable to Marilyn Monroe and James Dean -- has called it home. It has remained the hotel of choice for the entertainment industry, music, fashion and art world ever since.

Within its thick, poured concrete walls and among its lush tropical foliage, it is still the favored hideaway of a clientele looking for the utmost in discretion, privacy, and excellent service with all of the warmth, personality and charm of a boutique hotel.