Nostalgia is a powerful emotion, especially when it comes to design. Hôtel des Grands Voyageurs, a brand new boutique hotel nestled in the Left Bank Quartier of Saint-Placide, Paris, is a perfect example of this. It evokes the golden age of travel, a time when opulent voyages across the Atlantic were the epitome of luxury.
Imagine a bygone era of grand passenger ships with their elegant wood paneling, lavish furniture, and glamorous passengers dressed to the nines. The air would be filled with the aroma of fine food and the sound of lively conversation. This is the atmosphere that AD100 architect and designer Fabrizio Casiraghi has recreated at Hôtel des Grands Voyageurs.
A Collector’s Dream
Casiraghi’s vision is clear: he wants guests to feel as though they’re staying in the private residence of an art collector. The hotel is filled with stunning works of art, from lithographs by Gustav Klimt and Marc Chagall to bespoke mirrors created by Osanna Visconti di Modrone. Even the masks sourced from Indonesia, Africa, and Mexico add to the eclectic collector’s vibe.
Parisian Charm Meets American Flair
As you enter the hotel, you’re greeted by the lavish bar and restaurant. The ambiance is a sophisticated blend of American and Parisian influences. Think traditional Parisian brasserie motifs mixed with delicious American cuisine. The seafood-focused menu boasts poached oysters, line-caught sea bass, and even a lobster roll. And, of course, there’s a delicious burger that will satisfy even the most discerning palate.
Speakeasy Secrets and Fitness Delights
Venture down the sleek stairs to the left and you’ll discover a fully-stocked bookcase hiding a speakeasy called Poppy Bar. Here, skilled mixologists whip up playful cocktails like a Lemon Drop and Long Island Ice Tea, but with a crafty twist that elevates them to a new level.
The hotel also boasts a small but impressive gym. Guests can choose from cardio machines and free weights, all framed by stunning frescoes by Osanna Visconti di Modrone. There’s also an infrared sauna, showers, and lockers, ensuring a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Food, Drink, and More
The hotel features a standalone oval bar and restaurant on the main level, along with the Poppy Bar speakeasy located one level down. The seafood-focused menu blends American classics with a distinctly Parisian setting, a nod to the enduring love affair between France and the United States.
In addition to the fantastic dining options, guests can enjoy a range of amenities including two meeting rooms, underground private parking, and in-room amenities like record players and Diptyque toiletries.
Explore the Neighborhood
For a change of pace, take a stroll through the Jardin du Luxembourg, less than a 10-minute walk away. This serene green space is perfect for a morning walk, an afternoon picnic, or a leisurely evening stroll. Just across the street from the hotel is Maison Verot, a charcutier specializing in delicious meats like terrine and pâté.
A Perfect Parisian Retreat
The location of Hôtel des Grands Voyageurs is truly ideal. It offers the charm of historic Saint-Germain-des-Prés, while still maintaining a neighborhood feel. The hotel is also just a couple of minutes away from one of Paris’s most beautiful green spaces.
If you’re planning a trip to Paris for the Summer Olympics, Hôtel des Grands Voyageurs is a fantastic choice. Its location is a welcome respite from the Olympic frenzy, making it a truly tranquil and enjoyable experience.
Overall, Hôtel des Grands Voyageurs is a true gem in the heart of Paris. It seamlessly blends nostalgia with modern luxury, offering guests a truly unforgettable experience.
