fbpx

Tested by Travellers Society: Saint James Paris

France

Reviewed by the Travellers Society: Saint James, Paris, France
June 27, 2017 Pauline

Paris will always be Paris and will always continue to make visitors from around the world dream. And what could be more beautiful than staying in a Parisian palace? If you've already been shown The Bristol, the hotel Saint James Paris also welcomes you in a truly unique setting for an unforgettable stay in the capital. Unique is indeed the word when talking about Saint James: far from the sometimes cool elegance of certain grand hotels, Saint James charms, surprises, and captivates you.

At Saint James Paris, English decorator Bambi Sloan indulged her highly imaginative style. Although the establishment is part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux, it certainly doesn't lack originality! All 48 rooms and suites are unique, and their decor instantly makes you feel at home. Couples will love the boudoir room and its ultra-cozy atmosphere.

The only château-hotel in the capital, Saint James Paris boasts a Clefs d'Or concierge and offers a plethora of services to make your stay even more enjoyable: laptop and iPad available, convertible SMART car rental, not to mention a Guerlain Spa to meet your relaxation desires. Not to treat yourself to a treatment during your Parisian stay would be sacrilege!

The Michelin-starred restaurant at Saint James Paris will delight you: a dining room from another century, completely enchanting, invites you to a timeless experience. You can enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, and if you're lucky and the weather is nice, you might even be able to enjoy the terrace. Absolutely divine, it stands out as a rare jewel in the capital. An additional note: lunch is reserved exclusively for hotel residents and members of the Saint James Club. And if you're wondering why there are so many hot air balloons at Saint James Paris, it's simply in homage to the land's original purpose: it was the very first hot air balloon airfield in the capital.

In a nutshell

  • An unusual place, a member of Relais & Châteaux.
  • Each room is tastefully and elegantly decorated.
  • The only castle hotel in the capital, it transports you to another century.

Restoration: Le Pré Catelan

It's impossible to visit Paris without booking a table at one of the capital's Michelin-starred restaurants. And while you're at it, you might as well choose a three-Michelin-star one! In addition to divine cuisine, Le Pré Catelan welcomes you to a sumptuous setting. Indulge in the "Menu du Pré," which will allow you to discover a palette of flavors. Just a few minutes from the Arc de Triomphe, experience a unique gastronomic moment. Of course, reservations are mandatory, but your concierge will take care of that for you!

With the kids

You can of course book at Saint-James Paris with children. However, the hotel is more designed for a solo stay or for two. Nevertheless, older children will enjoy the old-world decor.

The grand staircase is sure to dazzle them, and they'll no doubt imagine themselves in costume, descending the steps for a ball! Saint-James is an excellent starting point for visiting the many museums and monuments of the capital.

 

Address

Relais & Châteaux Le Saint-James, 43 Avenue Bugeaud, 75116 Paris – website – From €400

Inspiration

Shopping
To extend your experience after leaving the Spa, the Guerlain boutique awaits you on the Champs-Élysées.

Out for a walk
Paris can't be visited in a day, but in a weekend, you can thoroughly enjoy the neighborhood: Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, Trocadéro… all the greatest monuments are just a stone's throw from Saint James Paris. Take advantage of your visit to step inside the unclassifiable Palais de Tokyo.

Zen
The Guerlain Spa at Saint James Paris is legendary! Featuring two treatment rooms, it also boasts two hammams. We love the Imperial Sunday package: a 2-hour «Guerlain Dédicace» face and body treatment followed by brunch. Admit it, that sounds like the perfect Sunday!

In the suitcase
Some elegant outfits for dinner and why not, that pretty hat that gives you a bit of a starlet look.

Recommended Reading
The Mystery of the White Coats by Jean-François Parot