What becomes a legend most? Is it the fancy fair and location? The illustrious list of guests dating back to the turn of the century? Or could it be a cat? Maybe more than one.
Two of the most elegant residents of Parisian Grand Palace hotel are the renowned Burmese cats Fa-Raon and his new lady companion Kléopatre. Curious Fa-Raon is the one member of Le Bristol Paris family who is entirely indifferent to the impression he makes, with aloof self-confidence, he refuses to meet the schedules of journalists or photographers, but affectionate and playful Kléopatre won him over immediately.
I had a chance to visit with my friend Audrey who just opened her new bijoux store called Niiki.
Bastide was not impressed. But the two became very curious and followed us on our magical mystery tour around the hotel, through the corridors, lounges, and the famous French garden. LuxEco Living photo credit.
Everyone who has entered this hotel knows about the most important residents.
Whether you come to shop on the famous Rue du Faubourg St. Honoré take note that your footsteps are entrenched in history beginning in 1715 when the French monarchy reestablished itself in Paris.
The word Faubourg means that this area of Paris was once a suburb, and was reintegrated into the city in 1860.
Today, thanks to the elite history of Parisian design, beginning in the 1880’s with Thierry Hermés, founder of the world famous luxury brand who moved his saddle shop to the Faubourg, soon followed by Jeannine Lanvin and other luxury brands citing Le Bristol in the epicenter of fashion.
An astounding history of this epic palace began in 1923 when Hippolyte Jammet purchased the property and his mission was to transform it into one of the most luxurious hotels. Fascinating to learn that during the Second World War, Hotel Le Bristol would become the home of the American Embassy and host American nationals living in Paris at that time.
The list of celebrities that have frequented and some have lived here for longer periods of time is quite impressive. Charlie Chaplin, Rita Hayworth, Sophia Lauren, Princess Grace of Monaco, Mick Jagger, Barbara Bach and Ringo Star, and now of course, Bastide, our precious little pet who travels with us when we can’t transport Journey over seas.
From then to now, this Leading Hotel of the World stakes its reputation as the only hotel in all of Europe that can claim 4 Michelin Stars and is considered by the worlds leading gastronomic experts as the best.
It stands alone as a coveted part of the Oetker Collection, which is owned by German industrialist Rudolf August Oetker. Each of their properties in the collection including Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa, Château Saint-Martin & Spa, and Palais Namaskar are quintessentially unique. One of a kind.
Speaking of famous designs, the building has a large limestone facade and a glass and wrought-iron elevator. The most impressive feature is the swimming pool which resembles the front of a large sailboat. Designed by architect Professor Pinnau who is renowned for designing the yachts of the Onassis and Niarchos family.
The five-star hotel holds 188 entirely renovated rooms. The luxurious amenities include a La Prairie Spa, a pool viewing the Sacré-Cœur, Paris and a fitness centre. Le Bristol is also recognized for its exquisite dining and offers a variety of dining experiences.
Let’s Dine with 3 Star Michelin Chef Eric Frechon
When it comes to the pleasures of the palate there are so many choices at Le Bristol. Epicure; Looking out on the Bristol garden, Epicure offers gastronomic dining, 114 Faubourg; Well known for its menu being created by Chef Charles Cauquil and being supervised by Chef Eric Frechon who was nominated for the Three Stars Espoir in the Michelin Guide 2008 and who received the world renowned Legion d’Honneur by the President of the French Republic, Nicolas Sarkozy, in March 2008.
We were so fortunate to be able to spend time with Chef Eric Frechon as we dined with Nathaniel Most at his table in the magnificent Epicure Restaurant.
I can boast about our luxurious experience by sharing my personal reflections. From the moment we entered Le Bristol we were welcomed as if we were coming home.
The grace and hospitality of the staff, accompanied by the pleasures of the palate, the serenity and ambiance of the gardens, the magnificent interiors of our suite, all added up to one of the most memorable experiences of our lives.
And if I could recommend a special treat for you I would say put Le Bristol Paris on the top of your list anytime of the year.
Editor’s Notes:
Le Bristol Paris, 112 rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré 75008 Paris France
- Restaurant Le 114 Faubourg received its first start in the 2013 Michelin guide
- The La Prairie Spa awarded the American Spa Award, 2012
- Guest Recognition at the Leaders Club Awards, 2012
- European Hospitality Awards, 2012
- Luxury Family Hotel at the World Luxury Hotel Awards, 2012
- Best hotel in France and Europe at the World Travel Awards, 2012
- World Luxury Spa Awards, 2012
- Laurent Jeannin, Pastry Chef of the year, 2011
- Member of the Leading Hotels of the world and of the “Comité Colbert”.
