For more than a century, Saint James Paris was once a private mansion catered to scholars of famous Parisian universities as a residence through the Thiers Foundation, funded by the widow of former French President Adolphe Thiers in tribute to her husband. In 1992, the historic gem opened its doors with a bold, design-forward look that still embraced its past.
While the outside looks like a countryside chateau, the interiors by designer Bambi Sloan are decked out in vibrant, extravagant furnishings that are simply a joy to behold — the eclectic mix includes a graphic black-and-white lobby, individually designed rooms, a very clubby bar filled with leather-clad books and chairs. Saint James Paris is the only chateau-hotel in proper Paris, and sits on a corner within the heart of the 16th Arrondissement, a residential area with easy Metro access.
While the outside looks like a countryside chateau, the interiors by designer Bambi Sloan are decked out in vibrant, extravagant furnishings that are simply a joy to behold — the eclectic mix includes a graphic black-and-white lobby, individually designed rooms, a very clubby bar filled with leather-clad books and chairs. Saint James Paris is the only chateau-hotel in proper Paris, and sits on a corner within the heart of the 16th Arrondissement, a residential area with easy Metro access.
Our Inspector's Highlights
- In the chateau's original dining room, you will find Bellefeuille, which looks like a winter garden. The open kitchen trots out seasonal dishes featuring organic vegetables from the owners' estate south of Paris.
- The galley-shaped library bar to the left of the dining room is decorated with Persian rugs, velvet and leather club armchairs and, a telltale of its scholarly past, towering bookshelves filled with tomes from the Paris hotel’s boarding house days.
- In the summer, the green gazebo in the garden hosts The Terrace, a restaurant and bar with a great view of the chateau.
- Pamper yourself at Guerlain Spa, which comes with three treatment rooms, an extensive gym, a hot tub, a hammam, a sauna and a light-filled 15-meter swimming pool with Greco-Roman details.
- French amenities add to the Parisian atmosphere and include Guerlain grooming products available in every room. The minibar also offers Paris-made alcohol and sweets from local favorite Angelina.
Things to Know
- Membership may have its privileges, but at Saint James Paris, a private Parisian club with ultra-luxe amenities, anyone who books a room may enjoy everything on the premises. That includes the chateau’s library lounge, a renowned restaurant, a flowered garden with a gazebo and a spa that features Guerlain products.
- Bicycles are parked outside and available for guests to enjoy.
- If you prefer to work out inside, there is a spacious gym and swimming pool on the basement floor.
The Rooms
- Every one of the 50 rooms is bright, unique and artistic. They feature Pierre Frey fabrics and many different patterns.
- Eye-catching details found in various guest rooms include many pieces showcasing French craftsmanship, like the famous "mushroom" lamps by Jean Roger and even a baby-grand piano.
- There are 18 connecting rooms to enlarge the suites and separate townhouse options for those who prefer multiple floors and generous space.
The Restaurant
- Adorned with 18th-century panoramic wallpaper and plants, the gastronomic restaurant Bellefeuille is open to the public for dinner.
- Hotel guests and club members may enjoy this quiet side of Paris for a class French breakfast, lunch or dinner inside or outside in a lovely garden area, which is outfitted with a green pergola and plants blossoming in all seasons.
- Chef Julien Dumas has imagined the six- or nine-course dinner menu like a path through France. His dishes capture an ephemeral moment in nature, and all ingredients come from producers preserving the environment and conducting responsible fishing.
Getting There
