Paris is always a good idea, at least that’s what Audrey Hepburn says. Home to world-class museums, romantic neighbourhoods, the Moulin Rouge and, of course, the Eiffel Tower, the French capital is one of Europe’s most popular cities for a romantic weekend away, that annual holiday with friends or a culture-packed family vacation with a trip to Disneyland thrown in for good measure.
If you’re looking to base yourself slap bang in the middle of all the action, Maison Albar Hotels – Le Pont Neuf is as central as they come. A five-star bolthole catering to everyone from trendy young couples to a wealthy international crowd, here’s why it’s one of our favourite places to bed down in the City of Light.
Hotel
A spectacular site in the luxe Les Halles area, Maison Albar Hotels – Le Pont Neuf’s original building was constructed in 1866, and today the hotel continues to respect this elegance and soul with its striking Hausmannian façade.
Inspired by the roaring ‘20s, its design and architecture are the brainchild of Alexandre Danan and Atelier COS Architecture, who have created a soothing space comprising lots of pale stone, wooden floors, soft hues of the textiles, velvet in the lounge and leather in the corridors. In addition to this chic minimalist-meets-haute luxe décor, the friendly and speedy welcome is also worth mentioning – we were checked in and whisked to our room within ten minutes of setting foot through the door.
Fun fact: the building was originally the headquarters of luxury fashion house Céline, which is rather fitting given Maison Albar’s emphasis on French elegance.
Rooms and suites
Comprising 60 rooms and suites, all similarly fitted in velvet, wood, leather and brass, and marble in the bathrooms, guests have the choice between an intimate upper room, executive room, junior suite, deluxe suite, the suite Pont-Neuf or, if you’re feeling flush, the rooftop suite which is perched on the summit of the building with 180-degree views over the capital.
High quality furnishings include king sized beds, deep-soaking bathtubs, beige and gold furnishings and plenty of natural light while, when night falls, lighting by Henryot and Cie and Tom Dixon simply adds to the lavish Art Deco feel. Further boxes are ticked with state-of-the-art technology and lights, curtains, entertainment and AC that are all controlled by wall-mounted iPads.
Food and drink
Home to two magnificent eateries, its signature French restaurant Odette and cosy lounge l’Auberge Urbaine, Maison Albar Hotels – Le Pont Neuf is a foodie’s paradise.
Open from morning until late, and named in honour of the grandmother of Céline Falco (née Albar), Odette, which is recognised by the Michelin Guide, was designed to resemble a new Parisian urban inn and you’ll feel right at home amongst its cosy atmosphere.
Food here is seasonal and crafted from only the finest of produce, so head down for breakfast and you’ll be treated to a delectable buffet with all the staples plus an En Commande menu comprising the likes of avocado toast with smoked salmon and walnuts, your choice or organic eggs or a smorgasbord of potatoes, sausages, tomatoes, mushrooms, ham, cheese, vegetable and fine herbs. Be sure to wash it all down with a glass or two of complimentary Joseph Perrier Champagne.
As for dinner, chef Rémi Hénaux serves up a menu of classic French dishes with a twist including turbot with orange, seared sea bream with lemon sushi rice and chicken breast served with green asparagus from Provence, while a lavish wine cellar stands at the centre of the bar complete with an impressive selection of delicious vintages.
The concept is devised by Caroline and Sophie Rostang, the sixth generation of the gastronomically prestigious Rostang family of restauranteurs, whose stable of Parisian restaurants include two with Michelin stars, so you’re in good hands.
Spa
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life for a few hours, the Spa Pont Neuf is a sizeable yet soothing space in which to relax and unwind, evoking a true sense of calm with a serene colour palette, relaxation deck, indoor pool and adjoining Jacuzzi.
Massages have been created by Jean-Louis and Nathalie Poiroux of the Cinq Mondes brand, with options for both couples and singles alike and inspired by beauty rituals from all over the world. Inspired by ancient Balinese traditions, the Spa Pont-Neuf signature treatment is 80 minutes of pure bliss, involving gentle Thai stretching and traditional soothing movements.
There’s also a Hammam, plus 24-hr fitness centre equipped with everything you need to squeeze in a quick workout before a day of sightseeing.
To do
When it comes to Parisian hotel locations, Maison Albar Hotels – Le Pont Neuf wins hands down. Located right in the very heart of Paris at 23-25 rue du Pont-Neuf in the 1st arrondissement, right near the Canopée des Halles and the famous Samaritaine department store, it is part of the burgeoning Louvre-Rivoli neighbourhood, which perfectly marries a vibrant atmosphere with luxury shops, tree-lined streets and street-side cafés serving up some of the best croissants in town.
The flagship Louis Vuitton store is just a stone’s throw away. When we visited we were able to set eyes on the huge sculpture in the likeness of Yayoi Kusama that has been erected on rue du Pont Neuf and portrays the Japanese artist repainting the façade of the building with coloured dots. You’re also just 700m from the Louvre Museum and, if you fancy a quick boat tour down the Seine, head to the Vedettes du Pont Neuf terminal just a few blocks away – it’s one of the best ways to see all the top sites in one fell swoop.
In a nutshell
Luxury hotels in Paris don’t come cheap and Maison Albar Hotels – Le Pont Neuf is no exception. If you’re looking for lodgings right in the centre of the action and walkable to pretty much all the main sites in the city, it’s a stellar choice for both long- and short-haul stays with excellent food to boot.
Factbox
Rates start at €485 per night for a deluxe room with breakfast.
Address: 23-25 rue du Pont Neuf, 75001 Paris, France
Phone: +33 1 44 88 92 60
Email: pont-neuf@maisonalbar.eu
Website: maison-albar-hotels-le-pont-neuf.com
