Step into a world of tranquility at the Saint James Paris, a hidden gem in the heart of the city. This charming, five-star hotel, nestled in a beautiful neoclassical mansion in the 16th arrondissement, is a haven of peace, offering a unique blend of French elegance and timeless luxury.
The hotel, recently renovated by the talented designer and architect Laura Gonzalez, exudes French chic and art deco vibes. The hotel’s elegant interior is adorned with sculptures and paintings, reminiscent of a family home, culminating in a stunning 400-square-meter Guerlain Spa.
As you enter the spa’s warm and inviting hallway, you’ll be greeted by a floral chaise longue and a lamp designed by Laura Gonzalez herself. This sets the tone for the luxurious experience that awaits.
The hallway leads to three treatment rooms, where guests can indulge in Guerlain’s signature treatments. One popular option is the one-hour facial massage, designed to restore firmness and radiance, perfect for both younger and mature skin.
A Journey to Ancient Greece: The Spa’s Greco-Roman Inspiration
The true magic of this spa unfolds as you descend the stone staircase. You’ll be transported to another world, a world inspired by ancient Greece and Rome, where the spa’s incredible décor comes to life.
A geometric bas-relief by artist François Mascarello sits above the refreshing 15-meter turquoise swimming pool with its invigorating whirlpool. The pool’s mosaic tiles, reminiscent of antique ornamental friezes, shimmer in the sunlight that streams through the skylight.
The entire space, bathed in natural light, is a testament to the artistry of marble and trompe l’oeil techniques. The intricate moldings and marble accents beautifully accentuate the alcoves and basements, adding to the spa’s breathtaking ambiance.
Floral Elegance: The Ritz Club & Spa
Now, let’s journey to another Parisian sanctuary, the Ritz Paris. This iconic hotel, founded during the Belle Époque and restored in 2016 by architect Thierry W. Despont, recently unveiled its stunning floral-themed spa.
Accessible through a private entrance at 17 Place Vendôme, the spa welcomes guests with a magnificent suspended sphere adorned with porcelain flowers, a fitting tribute to the chosen theme. Each treatment room, with its floral paintings and elaborate petal-shaped porcelain ceiling lights, is named after a specific flower, each honoring a woman who has left a mark on the history of the Ritz Paris.
From the Edelweiss for Marie-Louise Ritz to the Iris for Colette, the Orchid for Zelda Fitzgerald, and the Rose for Ingrid Bergman, each room tells a story. The Ritz Club & Spa’s signature treatments, meticulously crafted with 100% natural, French floral oils, complete the experience, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
A Holistic Approach to Wellness: The Ritz Club & Spa
The Ritz Club & Spa offers a comprehensive range of treatments, each designed to enhance your well-being. Biologique Recherche protocols begin with a massage of the face, neck, and shoulders, focusing on breathing, oxygenation points, and smoothing techniques.
For those seeking to revitalize their hair, the “Spa du Cheveu,” created by Australian hairdresser and facialist David Mallett, offers the legendary Tokio treatment, known for restoring damaged hair.
The spa’s wellness journey continues as you descend a few steps, where you’ll find a turquoise pool, stretching 16 meters long, adorned with mosaics inspired by ancient Greece and the mythology of sirens. A majestic celestial fresco, rendered in the art of trompe l’oeil, graces the ceiling.
Members of the Ritz Paris Private Club enjoy exclusive access to the pool and a selection of 15 coached classes, including aquabike, boxing, cardio training, Hatha yoga, Pilates, and more.
Whether you seek a moment of quiet contemplation or a more active experience, both the Saint James Paris and the Ritz Paris offer a haven of serenity and a true celebration of the art of wellness.
