Imagine a gathering of Paris’s most iconic hotels – the Ritz Paris, the Crillon, the Meurice, the George V, and the Plaza Athénée. It’s a scene straight out of a glamorous novel! You’d have five distinguished gentlemen, each with their own unique charm, and one captivating lady who adds a touch of intrigue. This lady, the epitome of Parisian sophistication, embodies the spirit of the Plaza Athénée, the most alluring of these palace hotels.
A Timeless Beauty Renewed
After a year-long transformation, the Plaza Athénée reopened its doors, welcoming guests with a refreshingly modern touch. While the hotel boasts six brand new suites, two additional rooms, and a stunning new restaurant led by the renowned Alain Ducasse, its essence remains unchanged. The essence? Pure, unadulterated Parisian elegance.
The hotel’s charm lies in its ability to seamlessly blend tradition with contemporary style. Think red canvas awnings adorning each window, a touch of sportiness that contrasts beautifully with the classic French interior. The hotel’s Art Deco décor, evident on the seventh and eighth floors, adds a touch of glamour, while the remaining floors exude a refined Parisian ambiance. The geraniums cascading from the window boxes, a seemingly ordinary detail, contribute to the hotel’s vibrant personality. It’s these seemingly simple touches that add a unique flair, a hint of Riviera charm that makes the Plaza Athénée both grand and playful. And let’s not forget the awe-inspiring lobby; a true masterpiece that takes your breath away.
Eiffel Tower Views That Steal the Show
What truly sets the Plaza Athénée apart is its collection of breathtaking Eiffel Tower view suites. Room 361, with its baby grand piano and a symphony of deep pink and charcoal gray, is the jewel in the crown, offering unparalleled views of the iconic monument. This coveted room is a favorite among guests and comes with a hefty price tag of 12,000 Euros per night. The renovation also introduced two additional rooms with captivating Eiffel Tower vistas, rooms 461 and 561.
But the Eiffel Tower views don’t stop there! The hotel holds a treasure trove of rooms offering glimpses of this Parisian landmark. For instance, Room 750, a spacious Art Deco penthouse with a terrace, provides a mesmerizing view of the Eiffel Tower from the waist up. Turning to the right, you’ll be greeted by the spire of the American Church and the dome of Sacre Coeur in Montmarte, a truly captivating panorama. And if you’re seeking a Parisian sanctuary with a touch of elegance, Room 740 offers a similar view of the Eiffel Tower from both the living room and bedroom. Even the newer rooms like 215/216, located on the Avenue Montaigne side, offer a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower if you peek out from the living room window. This room is a symphony of silver grays, white, and purple, a true Parisian masterpiece.
A Culinary Journey Through Parisian Flavors
While the hotel boasts a three-star Alain Ducasse restaurant, a culinary haven, the Plaza Athénée’s hidden gem is the no-star Relais Plaza brasserie. This brasserie, with its Michelin-star-worthy cuisine, transports you back to the golden age of Parisian elegance. The restaurant’s décor replicates the 1930s steamship Normandie, a true Monument Historique, creating a cosmopolitan club atmosphere. The guests themselves add to the ambiance, each with their own story to tell. At lunch, I found myself seated next to a silver-haired gentleman, impeccably dressed in a baby-blue windowpane jacket, an Hermes print tie, and a Bombay-stripe shirt, and his wife, who exuded the same elegant charm as Christine Lagarde. Across from me, an American lawyer, in a beige cotton suit, summed up the allure of this brasserie: “I come here every day for lunch when I’m in Paris. The same people are here all the time.” It’s this sense of community, combined with the exquisite cuisine and timeless atmosphere, that makes the Relais Plaza brasserie a true Parisian treasure.
The Plaza Athénée isn’t just a hotel; it’s an experience, a journey through Parisian elegance, history, and charm. It’s a place where you can indulge in luxurious comfort, breathtaking views, and exceptional dining. And at its heart, the Plaza Athénée embodies the essence of Parisian life – a timeless blend of sophistication, charm, and a touch of playful intrigue.
