Paris is renowned for its iconic hotels, like the Ritz, the Plaza Athénée, and the Crillon. But nestled in the charming side streets, away from the bustling boulevards, lie discreet, five-star havens, waiting to be discovered. One such gem is the Hotel San Régis, a privately owned mansion, just a stone’s throw from Avenue Montaigne.
A Century of Glamour and Tradition
Established in 1923, the San Régis is celebrating its centenary year, a testament to its enduring charm. The hotel, with its 30 rooms and 12 suites, retains the golden-era glamour of a bygone era, having hosted a constellation of stars, including Lauren Bacall, Gene Kelly, and Romy Schneider. The legendary US Vogue editor, Carmel Snow, found solace in the San Régis’ proximity to Dior’s atelier on Avenue Montaigne, making it her base for editing her iconic magazine. The former Ferrari chairman, Luca Cordero di Montezemolo, once shared a story with a Parisian newspaper, saying, “Yves Montand told me about the San Régis the day I met him on a flight from Paris to New York… That says it all.”
A Family Legacy of Tradition and Modernity
In 1950, Elie Georges and his brothers acquired the mansion and brought it into the modern era, upgrading the facilities to the highest standards. However, Georges understood that the hotel’s traditional architecture and décor were integral to its character, and he painstakingly filled the mansion with antique art objects and paintings, working with the renowned interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon. This ensured that the hotel’s timeless charm remained intact.
A Tapestry of Time and Elegance
Today, the San Régis continues to exude timeless elegance, its walls draped in silken, pastel toile de Jouy fabrics. Comfortable armchairs, art objects, and drapes add splashes of red and golden yellow, creating an atmosphere of refined sophistication. The hotel is now recognized as one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the world and is run by Elie’s daughters, Zeina and Sarah Georges, who bring their expertise from the luxury industry to the hotel.
A Warm Family Welcome and Parisian Traditions
“Our desire is to offer a warm family experience here,” says Sarah, who, along with her sister, are committed to preserving the San Régis’ legacy. They have invited the celebrated French pastry chef, Jessica Préalapato, to revive the hotel’s culinary tradition. Every Sunday, the San Régis invites guests to a traditional “goûter,” a delightful afternoon snack of biscuits, pastries, and fruit.
“It may seem a little old-fashioned, but Jessica has an incredibly modern approach based on old ways of cooking, and ‘goûter’ is also the time when, as little girls, we used to come to the San Régis to visit our father. It’s such a convivial family moment that we wanted to bring it up to date to celebrate the 100th anniversary,” explains Sarah.
Parisian Culture and Conversations
The Georges sisters have also initiated Les Petites Confidences du San Régis, a regular event where guests can enjoy lunch prepared by chef Michele Fanciulo while listening to expert talks. “We’ve already covered the histories of Parisian Couture, Parisian residences, and changing tastes in French etiquette,” says Zeina. These intimate gatherings offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Paris and a chance for guests to engage with local experts.
A Timeless Parisian Experience
The Hotel San Régis is not just a hotel; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to step back in time, to immerse yourself in the elegance of Parisian history, and to enjoy the warm hospitality of a family-owned establishment. From its meticulously preserved interiors to its thoughtfully curated events, the San Régis offers a glimpse into the heart of Parisian charm. If you’re looking for an escape from the ordinary, a haven of luxury and tradition, the San Régis awaits.
