Maison Souquet

Velvet curtains, brocade wallpaper, silk cushions, gilded columns and plush divans evoke a fantasy of a 19^th-century maison de plaisir.

• The “secret” basement spa, which has an indoor pool, can be reserved for one hour of private use by hotel guests who need simply request the key from the concierge.
• That guestrooms and common areas are decorated with 19^th-century oil paintings and the hotel’s cozy library/bar is lined with sumptuous art catalogues.

With just 20 rooms, this five-star hotel cultivates intimate and romantic vibes. The design of the hotel is an ode to French romanticism of a bygone era. Interior designer Jacques Garcia (Hôtel Costes, La Mamounia) has spared no expense towards making the lobby, bar/lounge/library and winter garden pinnacles of Belle Epoque-style decadence. Low-lighting and plush fabrics in the common areas make for plenty of cozy corners.

The hotel's main entry hall has gilded columns and Moorish archways that soar over maroon marble floors. In the clubby cocktail lounge–cum–reading room, a round red velvet settee is lit (just barely) by a crystal chandelier with red shades. And in the winter garden, hand-embroidered silk cushions adorn velvety banquettes and lamps with red-tasseled shades provide just enough light to read the cocktail or breakfast menu. Those seeking to fulfill a certain kind of French romance fantasy need look no further, but the over-the-top sexiness is not for everyone.

The rooms, interestingly, are somewhat more staid than the public areas, but still feature paintings of nude women, boudoir-style sofas, ornate headboards and no shortage of luxurious textiles. Each room is decorated differently, inspired by a famous courtesan. The top-level suite-apartments are comfortable, but not palatial.

Return visitors to Paris looking for an over-the-top romantic getaway will enjoy staying at this pleasure house just down the hill from the Maison Rouge.