Hôtel Lancaster

"So, can you tell us a little about this place?The creative spirit of former residents like Marlene Dietrich, Grace Kelly, and Greta Garbo imbue the spaces of this elegant spot, which began in the 1880s as the residence of a Spanish aristocrat, then was enlarged into a hotel in the Roaring ‘20s. The private home feel lingers, with antique accents, original detailing, and portraits by 1930s Russian artist Boris Pastoukhoff (another former resident) balanced by comfy, contemporary furnishings. The place was updated in 2020 by Studio Jean Philippe Nuel. Ooh, sounds swanky. What’s the crowd like?Artists and creative types have always felt at home here, and today mingle with other discerning (and deep-pocketed) travelers who value tradition and the finer things, but also a little soul with their sophistication. Got it. Now, onto the good stuff: Tell us about the digs.Set along winding corridors, the 45 rooms and 11 suites are bright and beautiful, with tall windows, street or garden views, and a residential décor, in keeping with the mansion’s history. Antique pieces, gilded frames, and original flourishes like brick-lined fireplaces and time-worn herringbone parquet floors are enlivened by clean-lined furniture, whimsical rugs, and a palette of grays, creams, and the odd pop of pink or yellow. Wow—beautiful. Are we going to sleep well here?You'll sink into cloud-like beds topped with high-end linens and cushy duvets. Perfect. How about the little things, like the mini bar, or the shower goodies? What made your stay more comfortable?There aren't a ton of in-room amenities (maybe as a nod to the residential atmosphere?), but a TV with Chromecast and free Wi-Fi have the essentials covered. The Marlene Dietrich Suite honors the icon with extras like a baby grand piano. That's definitely the one to book. And please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down?Lined with geometric white marble, the bathrooms have both a tub and shower (in most categories), and refreshing Clarins products. Excellent. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is complimentary. Great. How about room service?Room service is available 24/7. Phew! Any other services or features you'd like to shout out? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Named for a friend of Dietrich's—known simply as "Monsieur"—who loved to both cook and explore the French countryside, the hotel's refined restaurant serves elevated lunches and dinners that draw from farm-fresh seasonal ingredients, and work perfectly with something from the noted wine list. You'll find well-heeled locals and curious tourists enjoying a coffee on the courtyard patio, surrounded by flowering vines. As of 2022, Copper Bay, one of the capital’s top craft cocktail bars, has moved into the hotel and taken over the bar operation. Another recent feature: the private spa perched on the hotel’s top floor (treatments must be booked 24 hours in advance), alongside a sliver of a fitness room. Laptops and iPad are available to borrow, pets are welcome, and a Clefs d'Or concierge is on hand for suggestions. Sounds like they love Dietrich! We'll have to try that restaurant, though. So, bottom line: What will we get from a stay here?Feel at home in one of Paris's chicest districts, thanks to this former mansion's refined service and civilized style." - Sandra Ramani