Nestled along the Seine in the fourth arrondissement, just around the corner from trendy Le Marais, SO/Paris stands tall as a beacon of modern luxury, style, and exceptional hospitality. On my recent visit, I experienced the epitome of a five-star hotel, indulging in remarkable service and an array of impressive amenities.
Hotel
From the moment I stepped foot into the lobby and was handed a stunningly refreshing welcome drink (a combination of pureed rhubarb, pineapple juice, and rose and pepper tonic, I’d later find out), my stay at SO/Paris exceeded every expectation.
Though the design is a deviation from the classic Parisian interiors you’ll find in many other five-star accommodations in the city, it’s every bit as luxurious. The vibrant contemporary art adorning the walls was a refreshing touch, making me feel as though I was staying within a living gallery.
Room
The hotel boasts 162 rooms and suites spread across floors seven to 14. Each room is fitted with luxurious amenities, including plush bedding, a rain shower, Maison Codage toiletries, a Nespresso machine, and complimentary tea, coffee, water, and soft drinks. You’ll also have a well-stocked mini bar to raid if you so choose. Turndown service happens twice daily, and it’s likely you’ll be treated to some special treats left behind (in our case, delightful rose granola).
Another stand-out feature of the hotel is its focus on modern technology, including plenty of USB outlets, a steamer instead of a standard iron, Bluetooth speakers that extend into the bathroom, and digital hotel information and menus, accessed through your television rather than a traditional book.
I stayed in an Iconic Skyline room, which certainly lived up to its name. As the concierge kindly and excitedly escorted me to my home for the next two nights, I opened the door to a spacious room of 300 square feet (only slightly larger than their standard Collection rooms) and floor-to-ceiling windows that framed a breath-taking view of the Seine, Sacre Coeur cathedral and, of course, the Eiffel Tower.
The space was a true haven of comfort and sophistication, and the views made downtime in our room between meals and activities feel like an event in and of itself. The only downside? You might have trouble convincing yourself to leave.
Food and drink
One of the shining stars of SO/Paris is undoubtedly Bonnie Restaurant, Bar and Club. Inspired by the Space Age, the design firm Notaire created a unique and memorable space that shows off 360-degree views of Paris, located on the hotel’s 15th floor.
The restaurant is available for dining from 7.30am to 11pm, serving up decadence in the form of truffled Croque Monsieur and lobster rolls with avocado and mayonnaise, along with classic Angus ribeye, French fries, and a Béarnaise sauce. At 11pm, the space transforms into Bonnie Club, a trendy hub perfect for toasting and dancing until 2am.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed pace to sip cocktails and enjoy the view, make your way to Bonnie Bar, open for service at 5.30pm. There are no reservations required, and the massive black stone bar is an ideal place to join friends for a taste of the 60s and 70s-inspired cocktails.
Bonnie’s menu is also available for room service. The breakfast offering is comprised of something sweet, savoury, your choice of coffee, hot chocolate, and tea, and beautiful French pastries. I found it to be a great way to fuel up for a day of sightseeing while lingering for an extra hour in my plush hotel bed.
Spa
The Spa Codage is a tranquil and equally luxurious space located in the basement of the hotel, offering a menu of rejuvenating face and body treatments lasting from 60 to 210 minutes. All of the services are 100% personalised with tailor-made formulas crafted in France, suitable for both men and women.
In addition to treatments, guests also have access to a large hammam and Turkish steam bath for ultimate relaxation, as well as direct access to the Ô Zenhit sports club and its 20-metre-long swimming pool.
In a nutshell
SO/Paris encapsulates the essence of modern luxury and style, in a desirable location where the views truly shine. My stay left me with cherished memories and a longing to return.
Factbox
Rooms start from £250pn and are bookable via the hotel’s website.
Address: 10 rue Agrippa d’Aubigné 75004 Paris, France
Phone: +33 1 78 90 74 00
Website: so-hotels.com/en/paris
Photography (excluding main image and restaurant) courtesy of Gaëlle Le Boulicaut.
