An owner-run petite hotel, in which much care has been invested. Three rooms are ‘modern’, in an Art Deco-style. The remaining are more like the rest of the hotel, reminiscent of an Edwardian country retreat. Sip tea in the conservatory and become part of an Agatha Christie novel.
Telephone: +33 (0)1 45 44 38 11
Url: www.hotel-abbaye.com
Price: €205–472
Tucked away within a charming inner courtyard, down a quiet street in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the Hotel de L’Abbaye has been run by the same independent owner since its opening in 1973.
It’s a mish-mash of design: the hallways have been furnished with black-and-red patterned carpets and timber squares on the walls, lending it a Japanese feel; three other rooms have a more masculine, contemporary look; while the remainder are typically ornate and Parisian. All the rooms are surprisingly spacious, given the densely built location.
Downstairs a cosy fireplace is ideal for a warming winter drink, while in the summer months tables are set out by the courtyard fountain. The rooms lack the modern sophistications today’s travellers are used to, but there is something a little more decadent and – dare I say it – Parisian about having room service bring you up your nightcap. So much love and care has been put into running this hotel, it’s hard to believe it only carries three stars.
