Never have I witnessed luxury and design so beautifully combined as it is at Hotel de Nell in Paris. Part of Charm and More Hotels and Resorts, this establishment is in the calm and intellectual 9th arrondissement. There is a feeling of exclusivity as you walk through the smart glass doors and speak to the suited man on reception. It is instantly clear that the staff here are passionate about their workplace and pride themselves on providing the finest service.
We were in a lovely first floor room, flooded with natural light. The space was impressively large, one of the biggest bedrooms I’ve seen in a Parisian hotel. The airiness was emphasised further by the soft shades of white and brown seen throughout the decor. Fine materials like Oregon myrtlewood, organic wool and Egyptian cotton made the room look and feel luxurious. Every room is equipped with the latest technology and we noticed these features everywhere, particularly the comforting underfloor heating. A plump Queen sized bed was made up in the crispest, whitest linens… It guaranteed a blissfully indulgent sleep.
The bathroom was the highlight. A huge Japanese bathtub, carved from a single block of marble, was spa-worthy; in fact they do offer massages in the room. The ultra deep bath was incredible, great for a soak and scrub, especially using the invigorating Charm and More toiletries. Following the bathroom round we discovered an expansive walk-in black stone walled rainfall shower with numerous different settings. Two grand sinks allow couples their own space for beautifying and cleansing.
There are endearing touches in the detailing at Hotel de Nell. A box of chocolate treats from A la Mere de Famille (the neighbourhood institution and favourite Parisian chocolatier) was left for us in the room. There was also an extensively stocked mini-bar and intriguing design books to flick through.
In the morning, after a long hot bath, I sat by the balcony in my towelling robe and listened to soothing classical music, part of the Sunday service drifting from the giant Sainte Cecile church opposite. Looking out at this 19th century religious building across the road, I breathed in the warm incense hinted air and admired my contrasting minimalist surroundings.
Those guests interested in gastronomic delights will enjoy the prestigious restaurant at Hotel de Nell run by chef Bruno Doucet. I would recommend booking ahead for a table as it is one of the hottest eateries in town. For relaxing there is a library and a glass roof bar for evening cocktails. A small spa caters for visitors in need of some TLC.
More information and book a stay at Hotel de Nell here.
Thanks to the Paris Tourist Board, more information here.
