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Paris’s streets are full of ornate, delicate-looking 16th century buildings, and if you’re after somewhere to stay that’ll give you all that quintessential charm – paired, of course, with the comforts of a slick hotel brand – then consider Maison Colbert Meliá Collection.
Acclaimed philosopher, activist and feminist Simone de Beauviour used to live in this place, but the plaque immortalising her presence on the exterior wall is far from the only historical nod that you’ll find. Inside, the decor is inspired by the dreamy works of Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla, and some of the rooms even come with a view of the newly reopened Notre Dame, which is just a five minute stroll away.
What are the rooms like at Maison Colbert?
A lot of enjoying Paris’s charm involves turning a blind eye to how cramped it can be, but that isn’t a problem at Maison Colbert. Our Superior Room Partial Notre Dame View had ample space for storing a city break’s worth of luggage, and the en suite – with a large walk-in shower (and insanely good water pressure) – was separated from the bedroom area by curtain rather than wall, making it feel all the more spacious throughout. Oh, and you could just about peak the cathedral’s towers from the window.
A replica of one of Joaquín Sorolla’s pleasing luminist paintings was the focal point of the room, filling the wall above the bed, but nods to its vibrant summery tones continued throughout the rest of the space. Bright turquoise velvet covered the chairs, headboard, and curtain, with a clever use of a large mirror and glinting corners on the table and nightstand edges making it feel exceptionally bright, despite being a north-facing room. And that delicious smell? That’ll be the hotel’s exclusively designed scent, which has wafted in from the hallway.
What are the best things to eat and drink at Maison Colbert?
To the right of the check in desk is Café Clotilde (the name of which comes from Spanish author and Sorolla’s other half, Clotilde García del Castillo), where you can enjoy lunch, a swish afternoon tea by pastry chef Nina Métayer, or an indulgent morning menu – we’re talking croissants, yoghurt, fresh fruit, and eggs however you like them, plus coffee and juice, if you opt for the Clotilde’s Breakfast.
What’s the area like around the Maison Colbert?
This hotel is appealing in its own right, but the location is where it really shines. You’re a mere five minute walk from Notre Dame, and only three minutes from the very busy but still sweet Shakespeare and Company bookshop. Also within a 15 minute stroll are le Jardin du Luxembourg, Le Marais and the Pantheon – the list goes on.
Long story short, this is one of many brilliant neighbourhoods in which to base yourself if it’s your first time visiting Paris. The Latin quarter is on your doorstep, and you’re also walking distance from Saint-Germain-des-Prés, both brilliant spots for cafés (Kozy, Café Jade), restaurants (Takuto, Pastavino) and bars (Le Caveau de la Huchette, Pamela).
Why you should book a stay at Maison Colbert
You’re not in Paris to spend loads of time at your hotel, and Maison Colbet’s spacious, comfortable rooms, hearty breakfast offering and prime sightseeing location make this a brilliant base for a city break.
DETAILS
Address: 7 Rue de l’Hôtel Colbert, 75005 Paris, France
Price: Double rooms (including breakfast) start at €450 per night in low season, and €650 per night in high season.
Closest Transport: Maison Colbert is a six minute walk from the Saint-Michel Notre-Dame RER station, which whisks you to Gare du Nord for all Eurostar connections in just 12 minutes.
Book now: Click here
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