I recently met with the charming Sato Naoya, a director from the Ritz Paris, who was in Australia to meet with select luxury travel advisors, providing a valuable update on what is one of the best hotels in the world.
The famous facade of the Ritz Paris*Founded in 1898 by César Ritz, in collaboration with chef Auguste Escoffier, the hotel quickly became synonymous with unparalleled luxury and impeccable service. Tucked away in the prestigious Place Vendôme, the Ritz Paris is still an emblem of luxury and a beacon of French art de vivre; it's not just a hotel, but a sanctuary that embodies the epitome of Parisian charm and sophistication. With its grand decor and a clientele list that reads like a who’s who of the 20th century, the Ritz Paris is more than just a place to stay; it's an integral part of Parisian history and culture. As a result, beyond its luxury, the Ritz Paris serves as a living museum; the hotel's hallways are adorned with art and memorabilia that recount its storied past, offering guests a journey through time. Each corner of the hotel offers a story, and each suite echoes a legend, making every stay an immersive historical experience.
Offering a unique array of rooms and suites, each is designed with classical elegance and modern comfort, some being famous for those who used to reside in them, such as 'Suite Coco Chanel', a homage to the fashion icon who lived at the hotel for years, and the 'Suite Windsor', where the Duke and Duchess of Windsor resided. To this day, the service at the Ritz remains the stuff of legend, with a staff-to-guest ratio that ensures personalised attention. Concierges are artisans of experience, crafting bespoke itineraries that cater to the personal tastes and preferences of each guest, much like they did for Coco and the Windsors, but also Maria Callas, Marcel Proust, F.Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, to name but a few, as well as many of today's A-listers.
The Coco Chanel Suite at the Ritz Paris*
The hotel’s culinary offerings are as illustrious as its history. L'Espadon, a Michelin-starred restaurant, offers a gastronomic experience that is a testament to the Ritz’s commitment to culinary excellence. Here, you can savour dishes that are both a feast for the palate and a homage to French culinary traditions. Currently, the hotel's Head Chef is Eugénie Béziat, the first woman to be Head Chef at the Ritz since it opened in 1898!
One of my favourite areas within the hotel to relax is Bar Hemingway, a cozy retreat with a cocktail menu crafted by the legendary bartender Colin Field. This bar captures the spirit of its namesake, Ernest Hemingway, and is a must-visit for those looking to enjoy the night in a setting that’s both historically rich and vibrantly alive (there are another 2 bars). Another of my must-visit parts of the hotel is the Chanel spa, a sanctuary of wellness set within the bustling heart of the city. A perfect escape, offering a range of treatments that blend traditional techniques with modern wellness practices, ensuring that guests leave feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. Don't forget to explore the largest hotel garden in Paris (it's 1600 square metres)!
The pool inside the Ritz Paris Club & Spa*
The Ritz Paris is not merely a hotel; it is a cornerstone of Parisian elegance and a testament to the timeless allure of French luxury. What I love about the Ritz is its ability to not just host guests but to enchant them, making each visit a cherished memory. For those in the dreaming or planning stages of their Parisian journey, consider the Ritz Paris not just as a place to stay but as a pivotal part of your travel experience. Whether you're looking to soak in the opulence of its rooms, indulge in its culinary delights, or simply bask in the aura of its historical corridors, the Ritz Paris promises to transform your Paris adventure into an unforgettable narrative of luxury, culture, and history.
Explore more about the Ritz Paris and book your stay through us to experience the epitome of Parisian elegance. When booking your stay with Wayfinder Travel, your Virtuoso exclusive benefits will include:
- Guaranteed upgrade upon reservation
- Roundtrip limousine transfers with VIP greet (who will meet you at the exit of the plane, in the boarding bridge)
- Flexible check-in and check-out times (Flight information is required upon reservation)
- American breakfast at Bar Vendôme or in your room
Sarah Webster
Wayfinder Travel - Complimentary fiber optic Wi-Fi
- Complimentary access to the Ritz Club Paris Spa
À bientôt!
Sarah x
*All images are courtesy of the Ritz Paris and copyrighted by Jerome Galland.
