The Angel of the Independence is one of Mexico City’s most iconic landmarks. Towering 148 feet into the sky on the capital’s central Avenida Paseo de la Reforma, this golden angel (modeled on the Greek goddess Nike) shimmers in the Mexican sunlight, holding aloft a laurel of victory and a broken chain to symbolize freedom.

Francophile President Porfirio Diaz ordered the construction of the monument in 1910, commemorating one hundred years since the start of Mexico’s War of Independence. Those with a keen eye may notice some similarity to the July Column, found in Place de la Bastille in Paris — a reflection of Mexico City’s French connection. The monument is also a mausoleum, with Mexico’s most important war heroes (including Miguel Hidalgo and Vicente Guerrero) interred there.

The Sofitel Mexico City Reforma acts as a beautiful frame for El Angel, which is an unmissable focal point from its 40 glass-fronted floors. There are many unique ways to enjoy her beauty from inside the hotel, but here are our top five:

1. Soaking in the huge tub of the Opera Suite

Draw a bath with your selection of oils, bubbles, rose petals, and salts and pour a glass of cold, fizzing champagne to (literally) soak in the beauty of the Angel from your private tub on the 36th floor. It is nearly impossible to imagine a bathtub with quite such an iconic view —why not order a few colorful French macarons or some chocolate-dipped strawberries just to add to the decadence? The tub is big enough for two, so slide in with your beloved to enjoy this memorable view together.

2. Traversing the Mesoamerican-inspired staircase

The Sofitel’s iconic staircase snakes up and through the hotel, like a modern-day Quetzalcoatl— the feathered-serpent God of the Aztec or Mexica people. This geometric wooden staircase is cut with light, which glows from within the lines. The design, inspired by the tectonic plates on which the country stands, also gives a nod to Mesoamerican imagery. Wind your way up and around the truly eye-catching staircase to enjoy the view of the Angel and the urban expanse from multiple vantage points.

3. Indulging in Breakfast or a Late-Night Signature Cocktail at Cityzen Bar

Enjoy a fine French pastry or Cocotte Francés alongside rich French coffee and a mimosa while overlooking the Angel. The view from the terrace of the Cityzen bar on the Sofitel’s 38th floor adds to its appeal as one of the most sought-after spots for a morning meal in Mexico’s capital, and breakfast here on Sundays is an extra delight as the Paseo de la Reforma comes alive with the Sunday bike ride. The roads are closed to cars and thousands of capitalinos head to this central avenue to enjoy a Sunday cycle with their friends and family (roller-skaters and skateboarders are also welcome).

As night falls on the metropolis and the city lights up like a film set coming to life, the Cityzen bar takes on a chic feel, with low lighting that complements the pulsing beat of music and conversation. El Angel, which is also lit up after dusk, is as majestic at night as she is by day, so let her inspire you with her glory while you sip on a lavender-infused tequila cocktail — the perfect nightcap.

4. Floating in the Pool

Imagine swimming in a jade-colored pool, flanked by black tiles and gold geometric-patterned walls with a view out over the ever-expanding urban center of Mexico City. Now imagine that the pool has a reflective glass ceiling that lets you see the Angel of Independence while floating in its warm, salted water. This is the reality of the Sofitel pool, which feels open and expansive, like you are part of the city, while you enjoy a swim inside. The Sofitel Mexico City Reforma pool, located on the 38th floor, really is one of the most spectacular and unforgettable spots in the city from which to admire one of Mexico City’s most beautiful landmarks.

5. Bubbling in the Jacuzzi in the Spa with L’Occitane

If the pool wasn’t enough, you can also get a wonderful view of Mexico City’s angelic centerpiece while indulging in a massage treatment with your partner in Sofitel’s Spa with L’Occitane. The couple’s massage cabin has a jacuzzi with prize views of the Angel. After indulging in the volcanic Feu Treatment or a gentle sleep and reset massage, make sure you immerse yourself into the jacuzzi and take in the golden view. Whether you are celebrating an anniversary, a birthday, or even just the fact that it is Friday, the time you relaxed in a bubbling hot tub and admired Mexico City’s Angel of Independence will be a memory that will last forever.