Imagine this: stepping into a former mail-sorting center, now transformed into a stylish haven. That’s Brach, a captivating hotel in Paris’s 16th arrondissement, where modern design meets vintage charm. Forget the ordinary; here, luxury blends seamlessly with a relaxed vibe.
A Sanctuary of Style and Wellness
The heart of Brach is its Sports Club, a hidden gem in the basement. Step into a world of hushed elegance, where a 22-meter indoor pool, Jacuzzi, treatment rooms, and a salt cave await. Don’t be fooled by the retro-inspired gym; it’s equipped with state-of-the-art equipment.
The hotel encourages movement. Daily group classes cater to every preference, from Pilates and boxing to invigorating aqua classes and calming yoga. And for exploring beyond the hotel, complimentary e-bikes are at your disposal, inviting you to discover the city’s hidden gems and nearby Bois de Boulogne.
A Spa Experience Like No Other
The Sports Club isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a sanctuary for holistic well-being. Alongside traditional treatments like massages and facials, expert consultations with sports coaches, osteopaths, naturopaths, and physiotherapists ensure you leave feeling rejuvenated.
I opted for the Ren Urban Body Treatment and Facial, a blissful 80-minute escape. The full-body massage was soothing, although perhaps not vigorous enough for deeply tense muscles. However, the facial left my skin feeling supple and refreshed. Following a recommendation, I spent 15 minutes in the salt cave. While a calming experience, the proximity to the gym, separated only by a beaded curtain, meant I couldn’t fully escape the sounds of exercise.
A Place for Everyone
Brach attracts a diverse crowd, from young trendsetters to Parisian art collectors. The hotel buzzes with an air of cool sophistication, often playing host to magazine photoshoots. The Sports Club seamlessly blends with locals and hotel guests, creating a tranquil atmosphere, even with young children around.
Chic and Comfortable Rooms
The hotel’s unique design extends to the rooms. Each one is a symphony of modern elegance and rustic artistry. Choose from 52 bedrooms or seven suites, each with its own personality. Spacious bathrooms clad in white marble boast stand-alone baths and rain showers. Comfy king-size beds invite you to unwind, while blackout blinds at the touch of a button ensure restful nights. The minibar is stocked with the hotel’s own brand drinks and cocktails, and a playlist on the wall sets the mood.
A Culinary Journey
Brach’s dining experiences are a journey for the senses. The main restaurant serves refined, yet unpretentious Mediterranean fare, while the open-air terrace on the first floor offers Japanese-inspired bites. I was particularly fond of the homemade breads, especially the focaccia with olives and confit tomatoes. To my surprise, the tomato sorbet was delightful. While the Moroccan tagine lacked a bit of flavor, the fresh produce shone through. Breakfast, ordered à la carte, was a delicious affair, offering options like avocado on toast with ricotta, sautéed wild mushrooms with poached eggs, and a generous selection of granola, yogurt, fresh fruit, and juices. The hotel’s own patisserie creates stunningly beautiful cakes, as well as fresh bread, pastries, and desserts for the restaurant. Live DJ sets fill the restaurant and bar on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.
Brach: A Parisian Escape
Brach is more than a hotel; it’s a meticulously curated experience. It’s a place to rejuvenate, explore, and indulge in Parisian elegance. From the stylish design to the exceptional amenities, Brach offers a sanctuary of luxury and comfort. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are a blend of the familiar and the unexpected, resulting in a truly unforgettable experience. Room-only doubles at Brach start from €430 a night.
