Picture this: You turn on a quiet street in a chic, upscale neighborhood in Paris’ 16th arrondissement to enter an elegant oasis. A fountain bubbles, surrounded by greenery at the center of a pebble-filled drive leading to a standalone château.
You’ve arrived at Saint James Paris, a hotel suited to royalty, if not luxury-oriented travelers.
The property has a storied past. The site served as Paris’ first balloon landing field until the residence that still stands was created as a home for the Thiers Foundation in 1892. Later, in the 1980s, the Saint James Club of Paris took up residence. Starting in 1991, it was run as a club and hotel before joining the ranks of Relais & Châteaux.
While Saint James’ grand exterior leaves a first impression, its interior is breathtaking.
The hotel was fully outfitted by interior designer Laura Gonzalez, who describes the Saint James as a space in which “time stands still, but never in the past.” Gonzalez and her team worked to encompass different periods of Parisian style, including neoclassical, Art Deco, and other design elements.
The lobby is characterized by plush furnishings and a bright, mezzanine-like structure with a grand staircase leading to upstairs accommodations. Steps away, an intricate front desk houses keys to let guests into rooms, suites, and apartments—which live in a separate villa less than a block away.
The apartments are fully serviced and are designed as a pied-à-terre, set to offer the same feel as the rest of the property but with a more intimate, private feel.
Entry to our two-level suite warranted a “wow.” The layout included a lounging area, multiple closets, a full and half bathroom, a king-sized bed, unique decor touches, and a tall window overlooking the property’s entrance.
The bathroom was distinguished by its marble detailing, featuring a double sink next to the tub of our dreams, perfect for a soak before slipping into a provided bathrobe and slippers.
While it may feel hard to step out of its beautifully wallpapered private rooms, Saint James’ property offers plenty more.
The hotel is home to multiple dining options, including The Library Bar, Bellefeuille, and La Terrasse.
The Library Bar is open all day and offers light bites and fabulous cocktails in a low-lit environment that feels intellectual, invigorating, and classy.
Guests are also welcome to have breakfast and lunch in the restaurant’s dining room, which is filled with natural light and features a “semi-gastronomic” menu.
Saint James’ Bellefeuille restaurant is a gastronomic option. The eatery is focused on nature-inspired cuisine and has been awarded one Michelin star under the leadership of Chef Julien Dumas.
In the summer, Saint James Paris opens La Terrasse in its back garden, operating May through August. Room service is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.
Guests will find Saint James’ Guerlain Spa, which includes treatment rooms alongside a fitness area, a stunning pool, and a sauna.
The pool is equally luxe as the rest of the property – it’s aesthetically pleasing and relaxing, with readily available lounge chairs, chilled drinking water, and a sauna steps away.
Saint James Paris is perfect for those with an eye for the finer things. It’s among the most beautiful properties we’ve had the pleasure of booking. And if you’ve ever dreamt of life as a royal, you won’t regret making a reservation tout de suite for your next visit to the City of Light.
Top Takeaways
Location: Paris, France (16th arrondissement)
Star-Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: Fit for royalty – the hotel’s grounds are beautiful, and the chaâteau itself is beautiful. Inside the building, the opulence only continues, becoming even more grand.
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel? The design – Saint James Paris is a wonder, and it’s a privilege to stay there for many reasons. But the hotel’s interior is incredible – not a single opportunity to add detail and character, further elevating the already grand property was missed.
Food + Drink: Room service is available 24/7 at The Library Bar, Bellefeuille, La Terrasse.
Any Neighborhood Recs?: Nomicos, Fondation Louis Vuitton, Ladurée Place Victor Hugo, A La Petite Marquise, Agnes B, Kujten.
Amenities: Filtered water, coffee and tea in the room, WiFi, pool, sauna, bikes, valet parking, and “well-behaved” pets are welcome.
What’s Nearby?: Trocadero, L’Arc de Triomphe, Avenue Victor Hugo, Palais de Tokyo.
Rooms: 56
Pricing: Rooms start at €680 per night
Closest Airport: Paris-Orly (21 KM), Charles de Gaulle Airport (30 KM)
