With so many esteemed places to stay in Paris, the bar is high and hotels are all looking for that secret ingredient that sets them apart in a class above the rest in order to stand out. Relais Christine however, is a deeply reassuring reminder that the classics endure for a reason.
A colourful past
Set in a refined 17th-century townhouse built on the remains of a 13th-century Grands-Augustins Abbey, Relais Christine is a true hideaway in the heart of the French capital. Walking past, you might not even realise it’s a hotel, as it resembles a charming country house fit for royalty. Rue Christine, where the hotel is located, is named after Christine de France, the daughter of Henry IV and Marie de Médici, who was born in 1606.
Inside, the property is adorned with Louis XIII antiques, tasteful fabrics, plush sofas, and elegant design touches. Imagine yourself playing chess or reading a newspaper by a roaring log fire with a drink in hand from their honesty bar. There is nowhere else in the city quite like it.
Stress simply doesn’t exist here. A personalised handwritten note welcomes you upon arrival, and every turndown service includes chocolates from the iconic Angelina bakery. Do we even need to continue?
Romanticism, French style
The mansion is wonderfully spacious, and the 48 bedrooms are terrifically varied and surprisingly private. Among them, two Garden Suites with access to a private garden has probably the most countryside feel.
Even the smaller rooms are gorgeous. Luxurious four-poster beds are covered in rich floral fabrics by iconic brands such as Pierre Frey, Hermès, Le Manach, and Braquenié. Abundant armchairs complemented by wallpaper with geometric patterns, while dramatic floor-to-ceiling drapes frame windows that welcome Parisian sunshine, glinting off crystal chandeliers.
Guerlain spa
The spa here is thrillingly different by all means. Located in the historic vaults, it’s literally a “cathedral of relaxation.” Decorated with Guerlain products, it reflects a special partnership between Relais Christine and the renowned perfumery.
Pierre-Francois-Pascal Guerlain, a chemist and perfumer, opened his first boutique in Paris in 1828. Today, Guerlain has more than 40 spas worldwide, with only two outside of L’Institut Guerlain on the Champs-Élysées—one of them being at Relais Christine.
The spa offers a curated list of signature body and facial treatments delivered in two treatment rooms. Guests can choose from four Guerlain perfumes to scent their treatment room, while enjoying a range of therapies, such as the signature 60-90 minute Imperial Relaxing Massage.
This hallmark Guerlain treatment stimulates circulation, promotes oxygenation, and delivers irresistible relaxation. Other services include exclusive Guerlain facials, manicures, pedicures, and makeup services. You can even sample unique Guerlain fragrances not available in regular stores.
Next to the spa is a wellbeing area featuring a dry sauna, whirlpool, and gym equipped with a treadmill, elliptical, rowing machine, bike, weight-lifting machine, and free weights. Open 24/7, this space allows guests to relax or work out at their convenience. Simply grab your sportswear or a dressing gown from the room and enjoy the serene historic interiors.
Opulent breakfast
Breakfast is served in the atmospheric and elegant lounge. The entire area transforms into a setting of white-clothed tables adorned with crystal and silverware, evoking the charm of a period salon with a fireplace.
This setup provides a perfect opportunity to mingle with other guests while enjoying the continental buffet. The buffet includes fresh pastries, fruit, nuts, ham, and cheese, with eggs cooked to order. So you can enjoy eggs benedict surrounded by ornate statues and exquisite paintings.
The honey is sourced from beehives located in the hotel’s own garden as part of Relais Christine’s biodiversity and bee protection initiative.
There’s no on-site restaurant, which doesn’t matter as the hotel is located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, surrounded by countless dining options, some just steps away from the recently reopened Notre Dame.
Overall, though the hotel is close to major museums and sights, there’s a genuine sense that here you’re in the Paris of Parisians—which makes it all the more bittersweet to check out at the end of your stay.
More information about Relais Christine can be found here.
Image credits: © Relais Christine
