Pavillon de la Reine is the true definition of a hidden gem, with all of the romance and charm that you could hope for during a stay in Paris.
We stayed at Pavillon de la Reine for my birthday trip to Paris and it was the perfect base for a memorable, luxurious stay in the heart of stylish Paris. A few years ago, we visited its sister hotel Pavillon des Lettres in the 8th arrondissement and we were pleased to find a few similarities.
The Location
Housed in an 18th century mansion, Pavillon de la Reine is the only hotel on the historic Place des Vosges in the Marais. It’s discreetly nestled between typically Parisian restaurants, art galleries and boutiques, and the hotel itself is accessed through a private courtyard.
The exterior of Pavillon de la Reine is picture-perfect with ivy scaling the white facade, a chic outdoor terrace and a playful shiny red sumo wrestler (from one of the neighbouring art galleries) guarding the hotel.
Designed by Didier Benderli, the 54-room hotel has a historic feel with reproduction oil paintings and heavy fabrics, yet the contemporary design features make it fresh and up-to-date.
Arrival
The lobby scene is quietly busy with guests relaxing over a pot of Mariage Frères tea or a drink from the honesty bar in the two elegant, cosy lounges and outdoor terrace. We even spotted a legendary American actor conducting interviews in the lounge and enjoying the sun in garden during our stay.
Pavillon de la Reine has long been a favourite Paris address for privacy-conscious A-listers, as it’s very discreet and away from the paparazzi’s glare.
The reception staff are ever so friendly and efficient, plus the Golden Keys Concierge are on hand to assist with those hard to get restaurant reservations and share insider city tips.
The Suite
Our Junior Suite overlooking the pretty Japanese garden was very spacious and beautifully-designed in a contemporary style. It was decorated in a soft palette of cream, stone and oatmeal with mauve highlights and tactile felt adorns the walls. The luxurious, minimal design is unexpectedly modern yet homely and an interesting contrast to the grandeur of the public areas.
I liked that the original wooden beams in the room were preserved, yet painted dove grey to match the interiors.
The focal point of the fabulous living area is a comfy seating with a plush sofa, comfy armchairs and a low coffee table. There is also a writing desk for working and two large storage cupboards, one containing the minibar stocked with premium drinks and snacks.
A Welcome Treat
We were kindly welcomed with a splendid bottle of Chateau Le Jard Chatain Lalande de Pomerol 2011, a bottle of mineral water and a hand-written note from the General Manager.
The bedroom is chic and understated with the most heavenly king-size bed covered in sumptuous linen, a wall-mounted LCD TV and a large walk-in wardrobe, making it ideal for a long stay in Paris. Other features include powerful air-conditioning, an iPod docking station, free wifi and use of an iPad on request.
The Bathroom
Our mosaic-tiled bathroom was an absolutely dream – so spacious and well-designed. It includes a deep soaking tub, separate walk-in shower, vanity table, double sink, plenty of luxurious, extra long hotel branded towels, embroidered bathrobes and slippers.
Two sets of travel-inspired Molton Brown bathroom products were provided, alongside standard bathroom vanity essentials.
An extra feature that will reassure guests is that at night, the large metal gate at the entrance of the hotel is locked for security. Arriving back after an evening at the Crazy Horse, we simply pressed the bell and gave our name and room number to get in.
Turndown
Our room had been turned down for sleeping and on our bedside tables were adorable dark chocolates with an image of the hotel printed on top. That night, we had a fantastic sleep, thanks to the heavenly bed and the peacefulness of the inner courtyard.
Breakfast
In the morning, a buffet breakfast is served across the two refined ground-floor lounges. The breakfast is one of the best I’ve had in a Paris boutique hotel, offering an abundance of classic breakfast items done exceedingly well.
Hot breakfasts can be hit or miss in Paris, but I was delighted to start the day with seriously good scrambled eggs and lean smoked bacon with fresh baguette and French butter.
Also on offer are eggs cooked to order, delicious mini pastries, cereal, traditional French yoghurts, fruits and freshly-squeezed juices.
The whole breakfast experience is just perfect – the large tables are covered in white table clothes, seating is plush and comfy and the exquisite branded china plates and silver teapot add a finishing touch of luxury.
Eating Out
The hotel doesn’t have a restaurant, but room service is available and there are so many good restaurants in the Marais to try. During our stay, we dined locally, having a boulangerie lunch at nearby Gerard Mulot, gourmet éclairs from L’Éclair de Genie and late-night steak and gratin dauphinoise at Cafe Hugo on the Place des Vosges.
For a spot of pampering, Pavillon de la Reine has a fantastic spa with a well-equipped gym, jacuzzi, steam room and two treatment rooms with treatments by Carita Paris. It’s a lovely addition to the hotel and perfect for unwinding after a long day exploring the city.
Pavillon de la Reine is a very special place to stay in Paris and its impossible not to fall in love with its inspiring location and romantic atmosphere.
Stays at Pavillon de la Reine from 380 Euros per room per night, based on two sharing on a B&B basis. For more information and booking, visit: www.pavillon-de-la-reine.com
Chérie City was a guest of Pavillon de la Reine
All photos by Chérie City
