The Distinction of Palaces de France
In the last four years, 16 French hotels have been bestowed the unique classification of Palaces de France. They promise comfort and elegance on a completely different scale, something for which the biggest stars on the planet have developed a taste. Customized service is their trademark. Artists, designers, painters and sculptors are associated with them. Their chefs compete for Michelin stars. They are:
Hôtel Four Seasons George V (Paris)
Hôtel Le Bristol (Paris)
Hôtel Le Mandarin Oriental (Paris)
Hôtel Le Meurice (Paris)
Hôtel Le Park Hyatt Paris Vendôme (Paris)
Hôtel Le Plaza Athénée (Paris)
Hôtel Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris (Paris)
Hôtel Le Shangri-La (Paris)
Hôtel du Palais (Biarritz)
Hôtel La Réserve (Ramatuelle-Saint-Tropez)
Hôtel Château de La Messardière (Saint-Tropez)
Hôtel Le Byblos (Saint-Tropez)
Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat (Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat)
Hôtel Les Airelles (Courchevel)
Hôtel Le Cheval Blanc (Courchevel)
Hôtel Le K2 (Courchevel)
PARIS
Villa Saxe Eiffel
Opened: February 2014
www.villa-saxe-eiffel.com/en/home-paris-hotel
The four-star Villa Saxe Hotel has opened its doors in Paris' prestigious 7th arrondissement. Ideally located just steps away from Les Invalides, the boutique hotel boasts 48 rooms and suites. After one year of renovation, the 19th-century building was transformed into a modern hotel, focused on providing a warm, harmonious and serene environment. Unlike any other establishment in Paris, the hotel's facade is composed of Corten steel, a material that produces color nuances ranging from red to brown, which perfectly complements the hotel's charming Japanese gardens.
The Salon Opéra of the InterContinental Paris Le Grand
Paris
Opened: June 2014
http://www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/gb/en/paris/parhb/hoteldetail
Conscious of wishing to preserve its unique heritage, the InterContinental Paris Le Grand invested 6 million euros in the renovation of its Salon Opéra. More than 50 of the best artisans in France (roofers, glass workers, goldsmiths, trompe-l’oeil experts, historic décor experts, gold leaf appliers, cabinetmakers, woodworkers, carpenters, locksmiths etc.) were brought together for the rehabilitation of historic paintings and sculptures, the refurbishment of the ceiling and floor and much more.
The Peninsula Paris Hotel
Opened: August 2014
http://paris.peninsula.com
Glamour, style and French art de vivre come together with the opening of The Peninsula Paris – the culmination of a six-year labor of love with a focus on French craftsmanship, culinary knowhow and artisanal heritage. Taking over a former "grand hotel" that was one of 19th-century Paris’ most glamorous and stylish addresses, The Peninsula takes up the challenge of celebrating the very best of old and new, and setting new standards in design, luxury and comfort for its 200 luxurious rooms, including 34 suites.
Plaza Athénée
Paris
Opened: August 2014
http://www.dorchestercollection.com/paris/hotel-plaza-athenee
After a 200-million-euro ($268 million) expansion and renovation, the Plaza Athénée has integrated the three buildings that surround the hotel, including two luxury townhouses, and added 14 guest rooms (bringing to 15 the number of rooms with a direct view of the Eiffel Tower) and three event spaces, including a modest but sumptuous ballroom.
Hilton Paris Opera
Opened: September 2014
concordeoperaparis.hilton.com
In September 2014, the Concorde Opera Paris hotel began a $50 million restoration and enhancement program ahead of its re-launch as Hilton Paris Opera, with 268 guest rooms including 29 suites across five floors. The hotel's new designs and interiors will offer travelers a modern blend of history and glamour, with sleek styling in celebration of the 125-year legacy of this classic Parisian hotel. The hotel is situated in the heart of the city’s Right Bank district, just a stone’s throw from the Champs-Elysées, Opéra Square and Rue de la Paix, as well as a huge host of eating, shopping and cultural attractions.
Hotel Indigo Paris - Opera
Paris
Opened: September 2014
http://www.ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/us/en/paris/parin/hoteldetail
Located in a charming and quiet pedestrian street just next to Place de l’Opéra, this elegantly fully renovated four-star boutique hotel is a modern interpretation of authentic Parisian style. It offers 57 vibrant and very spacious guest rooms, including 12 suites and duplex apartments. The hotel is also home to the appealing and unique Tartares restaurant, a wine bar with a terrace and a gym.
Maison Souquet
Paris
Opened: Early November
http://www.maisonsouquet.com
A few steps from the Moulin Rouge in Paris' Pigalle neighborhood, the Maison Souquet takes you back to the Belle Epoque, a time when the City of Lights was at the height of its splendor, and socialites, Bohemian riffraff and high-class courtesans reigned. They would gather in pleasure houses like the Maison Souquet, a former mansion of the Duc of Orléans that is undergoing its latest metamorphosis into a luxury 20-room accommodation, complete with a lounge bar, winter garden and spa.
Le 5 Codet
Paris
Opening: November 2014
http://www.le5codet.com
Located in a 1930s former telephone exchange at the heart of Paris' select 7th arrondissement, Le Cinq Codet is a hotel like no other. Architect and designer Jean-Philippe Nuel has deftly created a different type of luxury accommodation – one that is surprising, convivial and characterized by great elegance and refinement. Design elements more commonly found in private interiors are used to establish an ambience that is both residential in feel and visually breathtaking. The 68 guest rooms boast immense floor-to-ceiling windows and have been created in the spirit of an artist’s studio or a collector’s loft.
Grand Pigalle Hotel
Paris
http://www.grandpigalle.com/
Opening: December 2014
The Experimental Cocktail Club team has established some of the trendiest cocktail bars, wine bars and restaurants in Paris, London, Ibiza and New York. Now it has decided to embark on a new challenge: a 38-room rock 'n' roll and chic hotel designed by Dorothée Meilichzion.
Generator Paris
Opening: January 2015
generatorhostels.com/en/blog/paris-coming-soon
With nearly 950 beds, its rooftop garden, bar, restaurant and patio, Generator Paris is the largest hostel in Europe. It has a selection of premium bedrooms some of which have a terrace and luxury dorms with private bathroom. A 15 minute walk from Gare de l’Est and Gare du Nord stations, Generator Paris is an ideal base for exploring Buttes-Chaumont Park or relaxing by the Canal Saint-Martin.
Hôtel de Crillon
Paris
Opening: 2015
http://www.crillon.com/en
The Hôtel de Crillon, a majestic building that has become a legend among luxury hotels and a living symbol of French art de vivre, is currently closed for a complete renovation. The renovation marks a milestone in the history of one of the world's most elegant palaces. The project, which involves some of the world’s leading design talents, seeks to create a new hotel in an 18th-century style, complete with a Michelin-starred restaurant, reception rooms, pa and swimming pool.
Ritz Paris
Opening: Late 2015
www.ritzparis.com
When its unprecedented restoration is complete, the legendary Ritz Paris hotel will unveil three restaurants; three bars (including Bar Hemingway); gardens and terraces with retractable roofs and floor heating; afternoon tea in the historic Salon Proust with its wood-burning fireplace; an expanded Ritz Escoffier cooking school; a signature spa featuring an indoor pool, treatment rooms and a modern fitness center; a tunnel ensuring private guest arrivals/departures from the Place Vendome; and 71 rooms and 72 suites, including 15 one-of-a-kind prestige suites. As a gift to Paris, the hotel is also restoring the Column in the Place Vendôme.
ALSACE
Hostellerie de la Cheneaudière's New Spa
Colroy-la-Roche (Alsace)
Opened: June 2014
www.cheneaudiere.com
This four-star Relais-Châteaux has opened a new "Nature Spa" whose low-energy-consumption buildings are particularly respectful of the environment. There are large indoor and outdoor spas, a calm-water pool, hammam and saunas with panoramic views. The two "Kraxenofen" spas – steam baths combined with organic alpine hay at 149°F – release coumarin and help calm the mind while stimulating the body. There is also plenty of water, air and forest for a natural recharge.
Hotel D
Strasbourg (Alsace)
Opened: September 2014
http://www.hoteld.fr
Hotel D is the latest hotel of the Group Hotels & Residences Diana. A boutique hotel with a minimalist design, modern furnishing and outstanding service, Hotel D is an exclusive address for business trips, family vacations or weekend gateways in an unforgettable setting in the heart of Strasbourg.
AQUITAINE
A New Look for the Hôtel Régina et du Golf
Biarritz (Aquitaine)
Opened: July 2014
http://www.mercure.com
The Regina, iconic hotel of the Belle Epoque, has just reopened after a head-to-toe renovation. Mercure, the owners of the 1906 Art Deco building, wanted to resuscitate its past splendor, marry it to contemporary designs and add it to their MGallery Collection. Entirely redecorated in dark colors, the 65-room room hotel also added a spa and sea-view restaurant under the guidance of Georges Blanc.
Hotel Yndo
Bordeaux (Aquitaine)
Opened: September 2014
www.yndohotelbordeaux.fr
This new five-star haven promises exclusivity, privacy and serenity in the very heart of Bordeaux. Set in a typical but fully renovated 19th-century mansion, the 12 spacious rooms and suites each have unique decorations and styles, in keeping with the owners desire to combine old-world charm with the creativity of famous designers.
La Grande Maison
Bordeaux (Aquitaine)
Opening: Late 2014
http://www.lagrandemaison-bordeaux.com/en/home
Bernard Magrez, also known as "the man with 40 châteaux," will soon open La Grande Maison, a boutique hotel of only five high-standard rooms and a suite with a view on the garden, next to the Institut Culturel Bernard Magrez. Within the hotel, Joël Robuchon, the famous French chef (who has held as many as 28 Michelin stars, a world record), will open L’Atelier, a gourmet three-star restaurant, the first one in Bordeaux!
A Wine Cellar by Philippe Starck at Château les Carmes Haut-Brion
Pessac-Léognan (Aquitaine)
Opening: Early 2015
www.les-carmes-haut-brion.com
Designer and architect Philippe Stark has partnered with architect Luc Arsene-Henry, a man dedicated to the 16th-century Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion, located in the suburbs of Bordeaux. The two men have designed a new wine cellar, a new fermenting room and designer reception areas in which to appreciate the estate's wines.
La Cuve à Mon Loup: A Wine-Vat Bedroom
Moulon (Aquitaine)
vignoblesjoelduffau.fr
Imagine opening the door of a former wine vat to discover a comfortable, modern room. That's the surprise offered by the owners of the guesthouse at the Château La Mothe du Barry, an ideal place to stay when visiting the Entre-deux-Mers wine-producing area. Less than 20 miles from Bordeaux, the region boasts a rich architectural heritage with Romanesque churches, windmills, forts and fabulous scenery.
AUVERGNE
Hotel Le Lion
Clermont-Ferrand (Auvergne)
Opened: June 2014
http://www.hotel-le-lion.com/en/
Previously called the Hotel de Lyon, this newly renovated hotel has been rebranded as the three-star 29-room Hotel Le Lion. Situated in the center of Clermont-Ferrand, it overlooks the main Place de Jaude. All the modern amenities include a new-look, but traditional brasserie.
Les Sources du Haut Plateau
Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid (Auvergne)
Opening: June 2015
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Les-Sources-du-Haut-Plateau/493871787411495
There will soon be a new spa in the highlands of Auvergne. The fully equipped facility will meet all wellbeing needs and desires through numerous spa treatments, massage, physical activities, relaxation and dietary programs, and more.
Cabanes du Bois Basalte Adds a Restaurant and Spa
Manzat (Auvergne)
Opening: 2015
http://cabanes-auvergne.fr/en
Newly opened in early 2014, the Bois Basalte has continued its growth. Structural renovation currently underway will result in a restaurant and a spa. Bois Basalte consists of sustainable cabins for two, four or eight people. Picnic baskets are available for all meals.
FRENCH ALPS
Les Suites du Montana
Tignes (French Alps)
Opened: November 2014
http://www.vmontana.com/uk/hotel-les-suites-du-montana-tignes.php
This characteristic Savoyard mountain hotel of luxurious suites and unspoiled views offers traditional hotel values with outstanding service. All of the five-star suites are set up for families and have their own steam rooms, whirlpool baths and expected modern conveniences. There is also free access to the hotel spa's indoor heated pool, sauna and Oriental steam room. Rounding out the services are a ski shop with direct access to the slopes, private garage with valet parking, porter and shuttle bus.
Quatre Tridents Club Med, Val Thorens Sensations
Val Thorens (French Alps)
Opening: December 14, 2014
http://www.clubmed.us/cm/resort-val-thorens-sensations-france_p-115-l-US-v-VTHC-ac-vh.html
In line with the resort’s modern, dynamic identity, Val Thorens Sensations is chic, relaxed and informal. It combines the thrills of a party atmosphere in a refined, welcoming setting. Its goals are to make communication with guests easier and more personalized, to simplify their arrival at the heart of the Village and to promote Club Med’s friendly, sociable ethos. It will comprise 384 rooms.
The Maison Cheval Blanc Courchevel
Courchevel (French Alps)
Reopening: December 2014
http://www.courchevel.chevalblanc.com/en/index.html
The Maison Cheval Blanc Courchevel’s chalet has been fully renovated and doubled in size with three bedrooms, a private spa and terraces with views of the fir trees and mountain. The 3,400-square-foot interior has been entirely redecorated and furnished by Sybille de Margerie. There are two playrooms for kids and teenagers staying at the hotel. The "carousel" and its secret passages whisk little ones away to another world. Teenagers can chill out in the "paddock" equipped with the latest technology, bespoke table football and a private projection room.
L'Or Blanc et le M
Courchevel (French Alps)
Opening: December 2014
http://les3chalets-courchevel.com/the-or-blanc / http://les3chalets-courchevel.com/the-m
These two new chalets have been decorated in a modern mountain style. Filling 2,400 square feet each, they have five rooms, a cinema, garage and spa. Ten staff members provide quality service.
L'Illulisat
Courchevel (French Alps)
Opening: December 2014
http://chalet-ilulissat.com/index.cgi?ln=en
L’Illulisat has a cosy interior in which guests can soak up the premium, elegant and modern yet vintage atmosphere. Its three double-room suites and children's room sleep up to eight guests. A shuttle bus is available to take guests to the foot of the slopes and pick them up.
Le Yule
Val d’Isère (French Alps)
Opening: December 2014
http://www.leyule.fr
Ski-in/ski-out is the main feature of this new five-star design hotel located at the foot of the slopes. The 41 south-facing rooms have outstanding views across the pistes and a sun-kissed brasserie called Le Schuss! There are a bar lounge, wellness zone (three private treatment rooms, a hammam and two saunas), ski shop, games room, cinema room and two conference rooms. And, on a cold night, there are also quiet evenings by the fireplace.
Annapurna
Courchevel (French Alps)
Reopening: December 2014
http://www.annapurna-courchevel.com/en/home/home.htm
The five-star Annapurna has been renovating its rooms, lobby, reception and lounge. Courchevel's highest hotel – perched on the Pralong trail at 6,250 feet above sea level – the Annapurna faces south into an awe-inspiring view. The Annapurna is today one of the last two luxury hotels in Courchevel still owned solely by the families that founded them.
Le Chabichou
Courchevel (French Alps)
Reopening: December 2014
http://www.chabichou-courchevel.com/en
Le Chabichou has redecorated a dozen rooms, its reception area, ski shop and fine dining restaurant. Still notable for its two white wooden chalets, this 41-room, family-run hotel boasts an elegant dining room and the largest spa in the French Alps, featuring a bio-marine swimming pool, with multi-jets, counter-current, and neck and back massages jets, as well as a steam room, sauna, salt cave and arctic plunge!
Hôtel Le Samovar
Val d’Isère (French Alps)
Reopening: December 2014
http://www.lesamovar.com/en
Recently equipped with an amazing wellness centre (pool spa, Jacuzzi, hammam, sauna and massage area) this charming three-star hotel with 19 rooms is located in La Daille at the foot of the slopes. And it has been getting an upgrade that will earn it its fourth star: a new mineral spa, a new bar lounge, a new huge terrace for all rooms on the first floor! Le Samovar also proposes six chalets for rent by the week.
Le Kandahar
Val d’Isère (French Alps)
Reopening: December 2014
http://www.hotel-kandahar.com/uk/index.php
Built in 1960, Le Kandahar was completely renovated in 1994 and then extended in 2001 and 2014. Located in the heart of the village, it champions the traditions of Savoy’s architecture, with wood and stone as the dominant features. There's a relaxing spa, a Tavern d’Alsace and, as of this winter, five new rooms, mainly for families of three or four people, and newly renovated common areas.
MMV Les Arolles
Val Thorens (French Alps)
Reopening: December 2014
http://www.mmv.fr
The MMV hotel and residences group has built its new Les Arolles Club Hotel in the former Club Med building, which has been refurbished for the occasion. There are 204 bedrooms with two to three beds, one wellbeing area (sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi), one spa (for Pure Altitude treatments) and three kids’ clubs (for 18 months to 16 years old).
Le Chasse-Montagne
Les Gets (French Alps)
Opening: 2015
http://www.lechassemontagne.com
What began life in 1820 as a farm and later became a holiday centre will, in 2015, become a traditional hotel of distinctive character. From 4,400 feet above sea level, the Chasse-Montagne and its 360-degree view of Mont Chéry and the surrounding mountains are perfectly positioned for both the ski slopes in winter and the golf course in summer. When the refurbishment is complete – using traditional materials and keeping things simple as befitting the original 19th-century farmhouse – there will be 11 spacious bedrooms, four of which will be family rooms. The Chasse-Montagne restaurant will serve both traditional and more elaborate cuisine, all made from locally sourced produce.
GUADELOUPE
Hotel Bois Joli
Les Saintes (Guadeloupe)
New wing opened: February 2014
www.hotelboisjoli.fr
The Hotel Bois Joli in Les Saintes is going high-end with a new wing featuring 16 luxury rooms overlooking the Pain de Sucre.
La Toubana Hotel & Spa
Grande-Terre (Guadeloupe)
New section opening: Early 2015
http://www.toubana.com
In early 2015 the 4-star La Toubana Hotel & Spa on Grande-Terre, will unveil a decidedly VIP section, featuring three 12-room villas which will include exclusive services like a personal butler and a private chef.
LANGUEDOC
Maison de Mon Père
Aigues-Mortes (Languedoc)
Opened: June 2014
www.maisondemonpere.fr
This four-room upscale bed-and-breakfast is a charming little residence situated in one of Aigues-Mortes' prettiest little streets. Each of the four rooms, set around a shared patio and salon, has its special character, including one with a view of the city ramparts and another with an in-the-room raised bathtub.
New Park & Suites Residence in Nîmes
Nîmes (Languedoc)
Opening: 2016
http://odeon.groupe-vanadis.com/#1
The Park&Suites Group is a leader in operating holiday residences for business and leisure travelers in France. Their newest residence, originally built in 1846, is being opened in a remarkable neoclassical building in Nîmes. The current work on it preserves and highlights its Haussmannian qualities, and gives the structure new life. The residence will consist of 63 four-star full-service luxury suites complete with a hammam, sauna and gym in the building.
LIMOUSIN
Hôtel Joyet de Maubec
Uzerche (Limousin)
Opened: Summer 2013
http://hotel-joyet-maubec.com
Fully renovated in 2013, the Hôtel Joyet de Maubec is located in a 16th- and 17th-century mansion at the heart of the told town of Uzerche, also known as the Pearl of Limousin. Its eight rooms, each of distinct character, are superb perches with views of either the Vézère Valley or the tiled roofs of Uzerche. Its restaurant, La Treille Muscate, has tables by the fireplace in the main dining room and in a private space in the turret.
LOIRE VALLEY
Maison Ailleurs
Chartres (Loire Valley)
Opened: October 2013
www.maisonailleurs.com
The history of Maison Ailleurs (Home Away from Home) goes back to the 14th century and includes kings, confessors, feuding brothers, the Church and perhaps even Marie-Antoinette. Located in the historic centre of Chartres, near the cathedral and the pedestrian quarter, the three well-appointed high-ceilinged rooms are full of character and the breakfast is a delight.
Fontevraud L'Hôtel
Fontevraud (Loire Valley)
Opened: May 2014
http://www.fontevraud.fr
After three years of study, 20 months of work and 16 million euros, the Saint-Lazare priory at Fontevraud Royal Abbey has been turned into a hotel and restaurant, the first "cultural resort" in France. Now it is possible to sleep in the calm silence of the Abbey, have breakfast in the priory orchard or walk alone through Fontevraud as night falls. The design concept for the hotel is anchored in its choice of materials (wood, metal and fabrics), the organization of its spaces (spacious, light-filled rooms), and in the design of its furniture and objects, specially created by Patrick Jouin and Sanjit Manku and made by local craftsmen. The hotel’s 54 bedrooms offer the comfort and services of a four-star hotel. On arrival, guests are presented with an iPad that enables them to access all their documentation and hotel services. The hotel includes an innovative iBar (with touch-screen tabletops) located in the priory's former chapel and a restaurant installed around the cloister.
Troglododo
Azay-le-Rideau (Loire Valley)
Guesthouse opened in 2002. Will be a 3-star hotel in January/February 2015.
http://www.troglododo.fr
In keeping with the curious architecture of the region, this guesthouse is dug into a hillside overlooking the Indre Valley. Four of the rooms are carved out of the rock. An additional room is located in the loft space of a farmer's dovecote. The location is perfect for the exploration of the castle's and culture of the western part of the Loire Valley.
Hôtel les Trois Cépages
Reuilly (Loire Valley)
Opening: 2015
http://www.loirevalleytourism.com
A young Japanese couple, Takashi et Hikari Sato, have joined forces with the city of Reuilly to completely restore a 19th-century, former municipal hotel fallen on hard times. The emerging three-star, seven-room establishment will also have a gourmet restaurant that focuses on regional food and wine.
Les Douves
Onzain (Loire Valley)
Opened in 2011, continuing renovations.
http://www.loirevalleytourism.com
There are new and unusual lodging option at Les Douves, a guesthouse on the green and moat-surrounded site of the former Château of Onzain. First is a four-room family suite with a private terrace, rebuilt on 500-year-old foundations. Second is the spacious and high-ceilinged Tour d'Hélion room, set in the remains of a 14th-century dungeon.
LORRAINE
La Clairière aux Cabanes
La Bresse (Lorraine)
Opened: April 2014
http://www.bol-d-air.fr
Look for your pillow in the trees. That's where some of these 13 new and unconventional theme cabins are located. From sculpted wood banisters to shaded terraces surrounded by birdcall, there's a heavy emphasis on immersion in nature. Six tree houses, including the "Tribu," a multilevel ensemble of three cabins, are complemented by seven ground-level cabins, three in the reception building (called the Giant Snail) and four built against the hillside.
MARTINIQUE
Le Village de la Pointe
Le Vauclin (Martinique)
Opened: June 2014
http://villagedelapointe.fr
Just 300 feet from Faula Point, one of the most beautiful beaches – and the best kitesurfing spot – on the island, the Village de la Pointe is the first residential recreation park on Martinique. Set in the island's largest palm grove, the village consists of 80 cottages supported by a full menu of high-end services.
Villa Alice Bay: Pure Luxury
Pointe Jacob (Martinique)
Opened: 2014
http://us.martinique.org/
The grounds of Villa Alice Bay cover 3,000 square yards of a residential neighborhood south of Le François. Charm, understated elegance, exceptional comfort and total privacy characterize the property that can host up to 10 people in five air-conditioned bedrooms, each with a private bathroom and walk-in shower. There is also a home theater, a huge patio, and a large living room looking directly out at the pool and the sea (the latter accessible via a private jetty).
Le Domaine des Fonds Blancs
Pointe Cerisier (Martinique)
Opened: April 2014
http://www.domainedesfondsblancs.com
This luxury property is a true haven of peace that delivers comfort, luxury and modernity. On four-acre grounds laid out in harmony with nature, it can accommodate 18 people who, wrapped in their cocoon of tranquility, have access to three lounges, a 2,000-square-foot terrace, a large swimming pool and a fitness room.
Habitation Lagrange
Le Marigot (Martinique)
Re-opening: Late 2014
http://us.martinique.org/
Founded by the Lagrange family, this property combines history, comfort and luxury. Set in a tropical garden right on the edge of a banana plantation, it was first converted into a luxury hotel in the 1990s and is currently under renovation.
MIDI-PYRENEES
Go 100% Eco with Chaumarty
Gaillac-Toulza (Midi-Pyrénées)
www.chaumarty.com
The Chaumarty guesthouse has been awarded Gîtes de France's "Coup de Coeur" prize in the category of responsible accommodations. The recognition celebrates the ecological management of this beautiful, perfectly-restored former farm set on a hillside looking out at the Pyrenees. No effort is spared to rely on natural and renewable resources for materials and power. It is the only accommodation in Midi-Pyrenees to have been labeled an Ecogîte.
La Maison des Lumières – Boutique Hôtel Restaurant
Beaumont-de-Lomagne (Midi-Pyrénées)
Opened: March 2014
www.maisondeslumieres.com
La Maison des Lumières (The House of Lights) is a handsomely renovated 18th-century building that now houses an upscale boutique hotel, a gourmet restaurant called Le Bec, a quality-wine cellar and antiques (for sale) from the 15th through the 20th centuries. Everything is centered around the owners' passion for travel and the many countries they have experienced.
Balnéa's Incan Baths and Winter Spa
Loudenvielle et Peyragudes (Midi-Pyrénées)
Opening: Late 2014/early 2015
http://www.balnea.fr
The recreational thermal spa of Balnéa at Loudenvielle has created an Inca space that includes an outside bath open to all ages set in a mini reconstructed temple, all given proper ambiance by Peruvian music. This newest theme space joins four existing ones: American Indian, Roman, Japanese and Tibetan. When winter hits, skiers and cold-weather buffs at nearby Peyragudes can save a trip to the valley by relaxing in the warmth and comfort of Balnéa's Spassio, a two-level mountain spa with indoor pools and treatment facilities. Large windows take in the snow-covered mountain views and the light.
NORMANDY
Cures Marines de Trouville, A New MGallery Thalasso Hotel
Trouville-sur-Mer (Normandy)
Opening: February 2015
www.mgallery.com
Trouville's newest hotel, also a full spa and thalassotherapy facility, will be the five-star Cures Marines, part of the MGallery Collection. The 103-room hotel occupies the palatial Trouville bathhouse adjacent to the casino. The building's yesteryear luxury has been restored with an interior design by Jena-Philippe Nuel, who also rehabilitated the Molitor swimming pool in Paris.
Hôtel Océania
Le Havre (Normandy)
Opening: Late 2015
www.oceaniahotels.com
This three-star hotel with 107 rooms and a large brasserie will be Oceania Hotels' first accommodation in Normandy, adding to its 26 others found throughout France.
Radisson Blu Hotel
Rouen (Normandy)
Opening: 2016
http://www.radissonblu.com
Starting in 2016, the four-star Radisson Blu Hotel of Rouen will have 91 rooms, a wellness center and seminar rooms.
POITOU-CHARENTES
Center Parcs' Domaine du Bois aux Daims
Les Trois Moutiers (Poitou-Charentes)
Opening: Spring 2015
http://www.boisauxdaims.fr
Center Parc owns five territories in France designed with full-service, modern cottages (built out of ecological materials) fully integrated with the nature – and animals – found at the hearts of preserved forests. The car-free, 800-cabin, 650-acre grounds of the new Domaine du Bois aux Daims (a forest full of deer) is organized into three zones: shared woods within which humans and animals live together, an animal-centered area in which animals can be observed from trails and other human touches, and a sanctuary in which there are no human traces. There are also many outdoor and sports activities beyond contemplation of nature.
Hôtel Les Loges du Parc & Spa
La Roche-Posay (Poitou-Charentes)
Re-opening: April 12, 2015
http://www.chateauxhotels.com/Les-Loges-du-Parc-Spa-2804
The façade of this Belle Époque beauty is a clear indication of the exceptional quality and setting of this Châteaux & Hôtels Collection property. A landmark in this spa town, it has all the charm of the turn of the century, combining Art Deco with Andalusian style, including its rose garden and peony beds in a large park with a hot spring pool around which a range of treatments is available. Once renovations are complete, the hotel will add a fourth star to its rating.
RHONE-ALPS
Hôtel Mont-Blanc
Chamonix (Rhone-Alps)
Reopened: November 2014
http://www.hotelmontblancchamonix.com/en/index.php
The top-to-bottom renovations of the Hotel Mont-Blanc have brought new elegance to this more than 100-year-old establishment situated in a calm street in the city centre. The work was overseen by renowned French interior architect Sybille de Margerie and highlights the beautiful typical architectural style of the Chamonix valley with some added contemporary touches. Le Mont Blanc gourmet restaurant and an exclusive spa round out the top-quality on-site services.
Hotel les Dromonts, a Legendary Address
Avoriaz (Rhone-Alps)
Opening: December 2014
en.hoteldesdromonts.com
Surrounded by beautiful snowcapped peaks, Hotel des Dromonts was the first accommodation to be built in this revolutionary ski area in 1964. Having become legendary as the host of the Film Festival Fantastique from 1973 to 1993, it is now an elder of 50 years old. And yet it remains young at heart, preserving its original spirit while bringing in new, modern touches. Retaining its original shingle-style siding – a hallmark of the ski area and the period – it also boasts an interior that's a mix of 60s and modern comfort. It's a decor of bold and revolutionary lines revisited with convivial touches bringing out all the best of the mid-century mod style.
Héliopic Hotel
Chamonix (Rhone-Alps)
Opening: December 2014
http://heliopic-hotel-spa.com/en.html
Facing Mont-Blanc and at the foot of the Aiguille du Midi, this new four-star hotel's four-story chalets were carefully constructed in an upscale "retro-chic" mountain decor that celebrates the charm of the Great Age of Mountaineering of the 50s/60s. Stone and wood were treated with care – the materials used are sustainable and the textures have been chosen for their comfort. The hotel includes a restaurant and, on the lower level, a full spa with high ceilings and bay windows opening onto the mountains.
Four Stars for the Grand Hôtel Au Rond Point des Pistes
Courchevel (Rhone-Alps)
www.rppcourchevel.com
Now Courchevel's seventh four-star establishment, the Hôtel Au Rond Point des Pistes, located at the foot of the slopes, consists of 32 rooms and eight suites, and counts a restaurant with beautiful mountain views.
ST BARTS
Cheval Blanc St Barth – Isle de France
Baie des Flamands (St Barts)
Opened: October 2014
http://stbarthisledefrance.chevalblanc.com/en
Set directly on one of the finest beaches in the Caribbean, Cheval Blanc St-Barth continues to guarantee the kind of personalized service and laid-back spirit that have made it a long-term favorite. Each of its 40 rooms, suites and villas is like a private residential universe, complemented by a spa set in the heart of a tropical garden the culinary imagination of chef Yann Vinsot, who fuses French savoir-faire with local inspiration.