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L'Hotel - An enigmatic gem in the heart of Paris

14th January 2008 Print
L'Hotel - An enigmatic gem in the heart of Paris The original Hip Hotel, L'Hôtel, sits on Paris's Left Bank, minutes from the cultural riches and literary heart of St Germain-des-Près. Renowned designer Jacques Garcia, has recently refurbished one of the capital's legendary hotels retaining its entire original attributes - 'une maison de charme', both intimate and discreet.

With its understated twist of British charm, L’Hôtel retains a true Parisienne feel.

Small details such as British-tailored uniforms, Wedgewood crockery and Vera Wang crystal lend the hotel a certain British flair whilst all staff are fluent in French and English. L’Hôtel’s convenient location in the 6th arrondissement means the Boulevard St Germain, the River Seine, the Louvre, Musee d’Orsay and Notre Dame are only moments away.

Lavish and exceptionally comfortable, the bedrooms at L’Hôtel are an attraction in their own right. Built around the magnificent six floor oval atrium, the rooms range from the Mignon room to Apartment. Exclusively designed in 1999, each room guarantees a unique L’Hôtel experience. Behind each door guests will find a name, memory and tribute to an individual period, such as Room 16 where Oscar Wilde lived. A framed copy of the final bill Wilde failed to pay, as he died “beyond his means" on November 30, 1900, hangs on the wall as a reminder of the room’s remarkable history.

Room 36, inspired by France’s legendary actress and singer Mistinguett, features her original art deco furniture. 40. The splendid Pierre Loti junior suite pays homage to the novelist, elected to the French Academy in 1891. The Oriental décor echoes Loti’s voyages as a sailor. Terraces overlook Paris rooftops and the belfry of St. Germain-des-Près. French windows and marble bathrooms boasting old-style bathtubs come as standard and l’Hôtel toiletries are exclusively designed by the renowned British Spa, C-Side.

L’Hôtel’s commitment to creating an unforgettable experience extends to the private pool and hammam. Beneath the stone vaulted ceilings of the basement guests may enjoy expert massages and even reserve ahead to enjoy the spectacularly romantic and peaceful pool in private with a glass of champagne.

Guests and visitors to the Hotel can sample exotic cocktails amid the dark wood and deep velvet sofas of the sultry, sophisticated bar - a demure ambience which continues into the petite, atmospheric, renowned Le Restaurant where local delicacies created by Philippe Bélissent - previously sous-chef at the Michelin 3-starred Ledoyen – can be savoured. Now an outstanding success within the Parisian gastronomic circles, Le Restaurant offers a seasonal menu of classical French cuisine with a distinct, light modern touch. The fait accompli is a 6-course Dégustation Surprise menu inspired by Bélissent.

L’Hôtel has been a secret hideaway for many illustrious guests over the years including Catherine Deneuve, Robert de Niro, Jim Morrison, Mick Jagger, Ava Gardner, Dali, Roman Polanski and Dita Von Teese. A popular haunt for A-listers today, L’Hôtel is seen as a private escape, away from the madding crowd.

L’Hôtel is situated at 13 Rue des Beaux-Arts, 75006, Paris.

For more information, visit L-hotel.com.

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L'Hotel - An enigmatic gem in the heart of Paris