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Le Bristol Paris: An old-world palace hotel that oozes luxury

Travel is officially back with a vengeance. If you’re looking to splurge while visiting the City of Lights, we’ve got you covered

By Elizabeth Lee - 

Le Bristol
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One of the oldest Palace hotels, Le Bristol is without a doubt an icon in its own right. Since the roaring Twenties, it has welcomed the likes of Charlie Chaplin and Rita Hayworth into its hallowed halls and in 1940 during the Second World War, it transformed into the headquarters of the American embassy. Today, it attracts a stylish set including models and musicians, and we spied a couple of fashion insiders hanging out at Le Bar du Bristol, which FYI was awarded the best hotel bar in the world in 2019 by Forbes.

Le Bristol

Another sort of celebrity sighting you can look forward to is of the four-legged kind. Once the home of a male Birman cat named Fa-Raon for 11 years, he is now a happily retired kitty that lives with one of Le Bristol’s receptionists and has since passed the reins of hotel ambassador to his son, little Socrate. During our stay, we spotted a flash of white fur jumping energetically across the freshly-mowed lawn, as well as snoozing away on one of the plush sofas near the lobby.

Le Bristol

Despite its fancy address and trappings, nothing ever feels forced at Le Bristol. Here, the staff are always courteous, and their welcome always warm. Yes, it oozes five-star luxury, but there’s also a feeling of coming home that makes a stay here truly special.

Address: 112 Rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré, 75008 Paris, France
Vibe: A Palace hotel with old-world charm and modern hospitality
Price: $$

The Rooms

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There are a total of 190 rooms and suites spread across the main building and Matignon wing, all with views of the greenery-filled courtyard or of Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. More charming than ornate, the decor remains bright and airy despite classic Louis XV-esque chairs, Persian carpets and antique furnishings. This might have to do with the fact that the hotel underwent a refresh in 2018 and now sports a harmonious green and pink theme throughout the property.

The Facilities

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Many hotels bake their own bread, but few can say that they have an in-house mill that processes its own flour. Head chef Eric Fechon is intrinsically tied to dining at Le Bristol, and it is under his charge that the hotel now boasts four Michelin stars: one at two-storey brasserie 114 Faubourg and three at French restaurant Epicure. He was the man who brought in the working mill and famed baker Roland Feuillas’ exacting techniques to the bakery and in 2020, a cheese room and chocolate factory were added alongside a wine cellar.

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If this obsession to the source and quality ingredients isn’t a sign that the food at Le Bristol is outstanding, then let us say make it clear: the croissant and pain au chocolat were some of the best pastries we’ve ever had.

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Located on the sixth floor, the swimming pool is an Instagram-worthy spot, even if you’re not in the mood for a dip. With a view of Sacré Coeur, the Eiffel Tower and the iconic rooftops of Paris, it is nautical-chic at its best. Try scoring a visit to the spa, and you won’t be disappointed by the facials that use La Prairie or the recently introduced Tata Harper range that’s done in a specially outfitted themed room.

The Neighbourhood

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While it might not be located right smack on Rue Saint-Honoré or Avenue Montaigne, don’t be fooled by this relatively quiet neighbourhood. It’s a short walk to the flagship Hermes Faubourg Saint Honore store, and right opposite a three-storied Rimowa in case you need to nip in and buy an extra piece of luggage to accommodate all that shopping.

Editor’s Tip

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If you’re a fan of Woody Allen’s film Midnight in Paris starring Owen Wilson and Rachel McAdams, you’ll be thrilled to know that part of the movie was filmed in the Panoramic Suite at Le Bristol. More of an apartment rather than a room (it’s upwards of 1725 sq ft), be prepared to shell out a pretty penny for this gorgeous space that has a rooftop view of famous sights like Montmartre, Opéra Garnier, Sacré Cœur and more.

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