Do you want to stay in one of the world’s best hotels in Paris? How about three of them, in the best locations in the City of Light, all owned by the same family? On my most recent trip to Paris, I discovered a trio of hidden hotel gems that had never been on my radar screen before: Baverez Hotels. This family-owned business (for more than a century) is owned by the Baverez family, who offer the utmost in personal attention to travelers. What also sets this brand apart, among many things, is that all three Baverez hotels are five-star luxury properties – a distinguishing factor in its success. Suffice it to say that Baverez Hotels is, in my opinion, the world’s best privately held hotel group. “Les Hôtels Baverez” is a shimmering gem in the history of Paris; a unique collection of luxury hotels built upon the dreams and history of one sophisticated Parisian family.
THE MAJESTIC HOTEL
Let’s start with The Majestic hotel, a luxurious, palatial property where rooms go for about 1200 euros per night. The property is located in the 16th arrondissement, which is a very wealthy area. Many of the rooms stand out, including #205 with kitchenette, coffeemaker, and microwave; it was the home of Enrique Iglesias on a recent trip to Paris. The Majestic has also been home to numerous photo, TV and movie shoots featuring Bruce Willis, Catherine-Zeta Jones, and Rupert Everett, and 40% of its customer base is repeat guests. Most of the hotel’s guests come from Europe, the USA, Canada, and also Saudi Arabia, where one family typically books three floors.
One of the highlights is the spa where I luxuriated with a facial of Matis products that are made in France. For 100 Euro, you can enjoy the pampering “initial” treatment consisting of cleansing, exfoliation, and application of serum and mask. There’s a gorgeous pool area, along with a workout area, where I was able to get in a quick 30-minute workout before my facial. (I try to hold true to my author’s reputation as a “Gorgeous Globetrotter.”)
https://www.leshotelsbaverez.com/en/home/majestic-hotel-spa
RAPHAEL HOTEL
Baverez Hotels also include the 83-room Raphael Hotel, another five-star showpiece hotel, which was constructed to resemble a private house. A member of Leading Hotels of the World, the Raphael features rooms whose attention to detail, and whose décor and design, will transport you. VIP suite #509, for example, features a gorgeous tiled bathroom, huge living room, and king-sized bed. Number 515, the Honeymoon suite, is a junior duplex suite with a spiral staircase that leads to the outdoor terrace on the 7th floor, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Paris. Rooms are the Raphael start at about 900E per night and can go up to 2,000E per night. The Eiffel Tower Suite, where Hollywood actor Ryan Gosling once stayed, is #609, and it is also actor Frank Langella’s favorite suite. It’s palatial, decorated in a classic style, and its huge stone terrace is a great place to watch the Bastille Day fireworks. My favorite suite is #601, all outfitted in white, which is soigne and elegant.
Hungry yet? We had lunch in the Lounge Bar, where Chef Thomas Chegarae served delicious foie gras, Pommes Frites, Caesar salad, and turbot. https://www.leshotelsbaverez.com
THE REGINA HOTEL
The Regina hotel, ideally situated in the heart of Paris on the Rue Rivoli and across from the Louvre, and within a short distance from the Opera and Galeries Lafayette, was the high point of our recent travel to Paris. General Manager Valentino Piazzi, who graduated from hotel school in Munich and also from Cornell University, oversees the daily operations of this Grand Dame. Filled with charm, the Regina is a delightful haven, that, says Mr. Piazzi, “is part of the most authentic and unique hotels – a family hotel group – which has been owned by the same family for 150 years. There are more family values that come into every decision,” he added. “It’s a unique property, whereas corporate-run hotel properties lack the human touch,” he added. Our suite, Number 301, featured something that all romantics and honeymooners will appreciate: a little alcove for the king-sized bed, surrounded by blackout drapes, which, create the impression of being in your own little world. The bath features tub and shower, double sinks, separate toilet room, and heated towel racks. There’s also a separate alcove/office area, where you’ll discover one of the handiest hotel accouterments I’ve ever encountered: a beautiful leather-covered box that contains four different electrical outlets, so you’re sure to find the one that fits your country. You can forget your adapter.
The hotel has a room for every need, and it even features rooms with bunk beds for children, which you’ll find in Room #604. Grandparents, parents, and kids can also enjoy themselves in this suite, which even features mini bathrobes for children, and darling Le Petit Prince amenities. Baverez Hotels assure that everyone feels like royalty, and their silken surroundings are for kids of all ages who like to travel.
