The perfect location
A petite but perfectly formed, cute and cozy, boutique hotel with a literary twist. Comprised of 26 rooms, each one is dedicated to a different letter of the alphabet – and in turn a great writer from European History – from B for Baudelaire, S for Shakespeare and Z for Zola. Set on a classically Parisian and picturesque street corner in the 8th Arrondissement, Le Pavillon Des Lettres is distinctly personal and welcoming thanks largely to its size and the staff who are extremely helpful and accommodating.
The Location
The ideal location for seeing the West of Paris, Le Pavillon des Lettres on Rue des Saussaies, is a stones throw from the Elysée Palace. For the perfect day out hit the Yves Saint Laurent museum, a 10/15 minute walk away (5 Avenue Marceau, 75116 Paris) to take a peek in his studio and see the many fabulous garments on display. You’ll find the Jardin des Tuileries and Grand Palais a 10 mins walk away and The Louvre and The Musee des Art Decoratifs so be sure to pre-book top exhibitions before you get there. Sometimes there’s nothing better than exploring Paris on foot and if you’re up for it a walk to Saint Germain takes between 30 and 40 minutes and picture-perfect views from West to East.
The Rooms
The lettered theme really comes alive in each of the rooms; quotes are subtly screen-printed onto hessian-lined walls and etched into the glass of the bathroom door – offering a warm, bespoke feel. The rooms are spacious – at least by Parisian standards – helped by the original large glass-paned French doors that open out onto the street – some with views of the Eiffel tower. There is no shortage of wardrobe space - perfect for Eurostar travellers with all that extra luggage allowance. We also loved the speaker in the bathroom, which is connected to the TV, because who doesn’t want to listen to Netflix while you’re in the shower?
The Breakfast
Every guest has the option to have breakfast in bed at no extra charge. All you have to do is tick a few boxes on a card left in the room at turn-down and hang it on the back of the door, opting to have it brought up to your door. We went all out and enjoyed a selection of warm pastries with jam and marmalade as well as selection of cheese and ham, fruit, yoghurt, orange juice and tea and coffee. Laid out perfectly on a large tray and with the low winter sun coming in through the windows it made for a very Instagram-friendly shot.
The Vibe
The vibe is very chilled and there’s a sense of privacy. There’s a bijou bar space downstairs around a well-stocked book case, sofas and fire. Twice a year the Hotel hosts an exhibition which features everything from paintings to literary works.
The Extras
Vintage lovers, rejoice! Just 100 yards to the left of the hotel you’ll find Vintage Paris Valois, which is a treasure trove of vintage super-brands and everything from Chanel to Schiaparelli.
What Else
The hotel really encourages you to think of this as a second home / home from home. We love the idea of the honesty bar: you can help yourself to your tipple of choice every evening whilst you pour through one of the many fabulous glossy books. And, you can nibble on a selection of cheeses and cured meats too, all included, of course.
The Need To Know:
Hotel: Le Pavillon Des Lettres, 12 rue des Saussaies – 75008 Paris. + 33 1 49 24 26 26
Price: Around £350 per night
Rooms: 26
Check in: 2 pm
Check out: 11 am
Spa: No