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August 22, 2023

5 Exquisite Boutique Retreats in Paris

Image courtesy of Relais Christine

I adore the charm of boutique hotels in Paris – from secluded patios and distinctive decor to glimpses of the Eiffel Tower, they’ve got it all. At these establishments, you’ll blend in with the ultra-stylish Parisians and perhaps even adopt their flair. Dive into my curated list of beloved Parisian boutique lodgings, ranging from a trendy haven on the Right Bank to a luxurious jewel in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

Image courtesy of Hôtel Montalembert

Hôtel Montalembert

The Left Bank’s premier five-star establishment blends contemporary design with French elegance. Its 50 rooms radiate warmth, modernity, and brightness, adorned with meticulous touches such as Carrara marble, bespoke silk drapes, and polished wooden decor. Moreover, it’s a stone’s throw from iconic museums like the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, making it an ideal (and fashionable) starting point for diving into Paris’s must-see sites.

After soaking in the city’s wonders, unwind with a meticulously crafted cocktail by the fireplace in the hotel’s library. Later, savor a meal at the sophisticated Restaurant du Montalembert. For an added treat, indulge in Le Spa at Hôtel Bel Ami, the esteemed sibling of Hôtel Montalembert, nestled in the opulent realm of the Left Bank.

Les Jardins des Tuileries

Château Voltaire

Thierry Gillier, the visionary behind the fashion house Zadig&Voltaire, crafted this exquisite five-star sanctuary on the picturesque Rue Saint-Roch, mere steps from the Jardins des Tuileries. His discerning aesthetic is evident: the hotel exudes a minimalist, contemporary vibe, blending effortless sophistication with a dash of grandeur.

Wrap up your evening with a delightful meal sourced from local ingredients at Château Voltaire’s Brasserie l’Emil. Be sure to experience the ambient allure of its bar, La Coquille d’Or, for a final drink. Overindulged? The hotel’s sauna awaits the next morning to rejuvenate your senses.

Image courtesy of Relais Christine

Relais Christine

Relais Christine boasts an enviable position at the epicenter of the fashionable 6th arrondissement. Its strategic location offers easy access to the Latin Quarter, the iconic Louvre Museum and its Jardins des Tuileries, the serene Jardin de Luxembourg, Notre Dame, and some of Paris’s premier shopping destinations.

This distinguished hotel, proudly affiliated with Relais & Châteaux, is nestled in a serene gated courtyard opposite a quaint cinema club. The interior is a visual feast – vibrant hues, opulent marble hearths, rich wooden flooring, and quirky wallpapers that never fail to delight, coupled with unexpected design elements at every turn. The gym is a work of art, nestled within an ancient stone room boasting 13th-century vaulted ceilings. It’s the perfect setting to invigorate oneself before relaxing in the sauna. (Discover more top-tier hotel fitness centers.)

Fancy exploring beyond the Seine to the Right Bank? Consider a visit to Relais Christine’s sibling establishment, Saint James, for a regal experience in the 16th arrondissement. And here’s a perk: since Relais Christine and Saint James are under the J.MAK Hospitality umbrella, booking through me ensures you’ll be treated to exclusive VIP amenities.

Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin

Set to unveil its doors in the vibrant Le Marais this year; this designer hotel has me eagerly marking the calendar. The custom interior is the brainchild of renowned London-based designer Martin Brudnizki, who has artfully integrated the Marais’ deep artistic and literary roots into his design. Echoing the hotel’s whimsical charm, the in-house restaurant, Boubalé, is spearheaded by the culinary wizards behind some of Paris’s most avant-garde and enjoyable eateries, notably Shabour. While the much-loved Balagan has sadly shuttered, it left behind a trail of nostalgic fans. And the cherry on top? The hotel’s promising swimming pool. My bags are set and ready to go!

Hôtel Amour

Nestled in the emergent 9th arrondissement, Hôtel Amour is perfectly positioned between Pigalle and Montmartre, neighborhoods brimming with dynamic flair and an undeniably hip ambiance. Every floor pulsates with a distinct hue, and contemporary artwork graces its spaces.

Each guest room boasts vintage pieces, verdant walls, eclectic art, and some even surprises with a whimsical disco ball. The hotel’s garden is a cherished spot for a languid brunch, drawing both locals and visitors. Moreover, the iconic Sacré-Coeur, offering breathtaking Parisian vistas, is just a stroll away. Hôtel Amour encapsulates joy in its essence. My heart is captured by its spirited character, affordable rates, and authentic local ambiance.