Set the scene for us: Where is this hotel, and what does it look like?
The Marais neighborhood’s Place des Vosges has often been called one of the most beautiful squares in the world, so it’s a good thing that this family-owned hotel’s ivy-covered, 17th-century façade fits right in. The insides are pretty photo-worthy, too: past the extensive private garden courtyard—a fairytale come to life when all lit up—the interiors by Didier Benderli of Kérylos Interiors mix Old World touches like original antiques, marble fireplace mantles, and richly-colored oil portraits of aristocratic faces with contemporary-styled furnishings and clean lines, resulting in a vibe that’s both plush and un-fussy.
It sounds divine. What’s the crowd like?
With its quiet-but-central location and boutique spirit, the hotel appeals to privacy-seekers and worldly travelers who seek out something a bit more personal and authentic than your typical five-star.
Makes sense! Now, onto the good stuff: Tell us about the digs.
Exposed wood beams, bold fabrics, gabled ceilings, marble fireplaces, a wall of gilded mirrors—the 56 rooms and suites each feature a different style and décor, so be sure to ask in advance if you prefer antique over modern, or vice versa. Classic and Superior rooms run small, but are enlivened by brightly patterned wall paper, colorful throws, or wrought iron window boxes filled with flowering plants. The signature Suite de la Reine keeps the colors and furniture contemporary to balance a handcrafted chandelier, 17th-century fireplace, and original Versailles parquet flooring.
How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?
In-room amenities are standard—flatscreen TVs, iPod docks, individually controlled air-conditioning—but perhaps the biggest perk of all is the quiet, which comes courtesy of the tucked-away courtyard location. Nespresso machines, tea kettles, and iPads are available upon request.
Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
Most bathrooms are small, but have a modern style, bathrobes and slippers, French-made Codage products, and rainfall showers. Some of the higher category rooms have a second half-bath, while the top suite has a tub in the bathroom, and a separate shower off the bedroom.
Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?
Wi-Fi is complimentary.
Room service: Worth it?
Even though there's no full-service restaurant on site, there's a limited room service menu available 24/7.
Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.
Guests can partake in a generous breakfast buffet, with hot and cold options, until 10:30 a.m., and then afternoon tea service later in the day. Drinks from the honor bar can be enjoyed in the library or around the lounge's fireplace; non-hotel guests are welcome from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., then it's hotel residents only. (The full-service Anne restaurant, which will serve lunch and dinner to both hotel and external diners, is in the works.) The Spa by Codage has a small gym and Jacuzzi open to all guests, and two rooms for treatments using the French anti-aging line. Complimentary bikes are available and, unusual for the city, car parking is free, too.
Bottom line: worth it, and why?
The French countryside feel with a heart-of-the-city location gives this charmer more bang for the buck.
28 Pl. des Vosges, Paris
France
http://www.pavillon-de-la-reine.com/en/