Pavillon de la Reine - Review

YOU’D BE HARD PUSHED TO FIND a prettier Parisian setting for Pavillon de la Reine – a tranquil, ivy-covered 17th century mansion tucked behind Place des Vosges in the chic Marais district.

Built by Henry IV, this impossibly pretty square was once a literary gathering place for the likes of Racine and Molière. Now beautifully restored, it’s one of those utterly special spots where you can stroll past bistros and antique emporia, and watch Parisians relaxing en famille at weekends.

Reached through an archway on the north of the square, luxurious Pavillon de la Reine feels more like a country chateau than a city townhouse. Clad in cascades of ivy, its box hedges, flower baskets and garden courtyard lend an air of leafy seclusion. Inside, historic features are everywhere – from the big stone fireplace and flagstone floors in reception to the wood panelled lounge, with its log fires in winter, tapestries and oil paintings.

French flair

Contemporary French flair has matched these historic surrounds with chic interiors and a pleasingly understated style. Bedrooms vary from the traditional – with beamed ceilings, four posters and walls covered in rich Toile de Jouy – to airy, split level duplexes with double height windows and a decidedly modish feel. It’s worth splashing out on a superior double room overlooking the pretty courtyard.

You might find burgundy walls or a purple sofa, black chandeliers, walls dressed in embossed shades of cream and gold, or framed monochrome prints. Silken plaid curtains, tasselled lanterns, velvet cushions and flatscreen TVs add cosseting touches. Unexpectedly roomy marble tiled bathrooms, come stocked with Molton Brown body care bottles.

Outstanding breakfasts win plaudits galore from guests, as does the honesty bar in Pavillon de la Reine’s plush lobby lounge, with its oil paintings and plum coloured drapes. It’s a great place to gather for drinks in the evening. Welcoming staff provide impeccable service and are ready to help with spot-on restaurant recommendations nearby.

This haven of civility in a wonderful corner of Paris is within walking distance of many big city attractions, with the cool Marais district on your doorstep. You’re ten minutes from the River Seine, with excellent Metro connections nearby.

Sit beneath the trees in colonnaded Place des Vosges, idle away an hour or three in one of the corner cafes listening to the musicians playing in the cloisters, or watch Parisians at play in this captivating corner of Paris. It’s hard not to be charmed.

Le Pavillon de la Reine was reviewed by Room for Romance