Rates: from €89 per night
Added extras: the panoramic view over La Défense and Paris
Services: the two bars, restaurant and fitness room
Mélia doesn’t feel as if it’s in Paris – and that’s not just because it’s situated on the border with Courbevoie area. The immensity of this skyscraper gives off more of a New York vibe than a Parisian one. The business district is not only set apart by its aesthetic and geography, but also in its exoticism. The day and nightlife is either underground or dozens of levels above ground. And since there are no shops nearby, the hotels offer a full-package experience.
The magnificent 19-floor building was designed by Claude Vasconi and hangs above La Défense’s esplanade, facing in the direction of Pont de Neuilly. There’s ‘The Place’ lounge on the ground floor, the restaurant ‘Le Miroir’ which looks straight onto the Takis pool, the breathtaking panoramic ‘Skyline’ bar and fitness room: trust us, it will be difficult to leave.
The spacious rooms (369 in total, with 29 suites) were decorated by Jean-Philippe Nuel, starting at 32m2 and going up to 80m2 for the presidential suite. In addition to the modern, functional furnishings, are huge bay windows overlooking Paris and La Défense. It’s attention to detail that is key here: think office touches to finish the work day with a flourish, the ironing board for sorting your suit, the well-stocked minibar and coffee machine. International and business clientele have all their needs catered for. And then there’s the gargantuan breakfast: the traditional scrambled eggs, croissants, fresh fruits..and spring rolls!