Rates: from €139 a night
Added extras: the smoking room and yoga wall
Services: wifi and restaurant
Hotels now have to make a statement: each new address tries to stand out with a stronger aesthetic, quirkier touches and more original décor. Take the aptly named Hidden Hotel, nestled at the bottom of rue de l’Arc de Triomphe, a few steps from the monument of the same name. The first of Elegancia’s ventures, which also runs OFF Paris Seine, boasts décor that will trump all the tired clichés.
The style is somewhere between the Flintstones and an old-style cottage; a beautiful blend of wood and stone, with brick walls, warm lighting, milky colours, super cosy sofas and large Nordic tables. It’s simple yet refined, contemporary yet timeless, unique without being over the top. Rooms are in the same tones (white, grey, black and wood) while the bathroom is full of surprises, opening onto the living room without a shower curtain. So probably best for couples...
The buffet breakfast is more of a brunch affair, making it difficult to resist seconds – or even thirds. And a few added touches: a smoking room and a yoga wall (not in the same space of course) for those who like to balance their vices. It makes total sense that this hotel was among the top five French hotels of 2016, according the TripAdvisor users.
