Saint James Paris

Tucked away in a quiet corner of the 16^th arrondissement, this whimsical 48-room hôtel particulier surrounded by lush gardens is the only chateau hotel in Paris, and is a charming country-style retreat within the city.

• The dramatic lobby with its grand, double-wide staircase that leads to guest rooms
• The verdant garden with tented gazebos where guests can enjoy an aperitif or afternoon tea
• The wood-paneled library bar, which is a perfect spot for drinks before dinner

Despite its Paris address, Saint James Paris feels more like a relaxed countryside retreat than a typical city hotel. Owned by the family that also owns the stylish and romantic Relais Christine, Saint James occupies an 1892 hôtel particulier on lush grounds that were once the world’s first hot-air balloon field, making the property simultaneously eccentric and grand, and the designer, Laura Gonzalez, has played up this duality in her playful and bold interiors.

This hotel is not for the faint of sight. Upon entering the hotel through it’s gated courtyard entrance, guests will find whimsical wallpaper in almost every room, and both color and trompe l’oeil abound. While all spaces share a residential quality, no two rooms are the same. Guest rooms run the gamut from airy and bright to cozy and dim, and while the hotel won’t guarantee particular rooms, preferences should be noted when booking.

The property doubles as a private social club, adding to its appeal (lunch at the restaurant is reserved for members only). Parisians stop by for cocktails in the classically English library (open to the public from 7 p.m. daily) and to enjoy meals in the impressive dining room over which Michelin-starred chef Virginie Basselot resides. He helped to reimagine the restaurant Bellefeuille, which has a gorgeous pergola bar with tables in the garden—perfect for summer dinners—and much of the produce is sourced from their garden outside the city. White wrought-iron furniture and tented gazebos occupy the garden where guests and members can make themselves comfortable for aperitifs in the warmer months.

Below the hotel, the Guerlain Spa provides further refuge for guests after a long day in the city. Within the 400 square meter space, guests will find three treatment rooms, a hammam, sauna and a 15-meter long pool, illuminated by a skylight above. Adjacent to the wellness center is a well-equipped gym weight lifting and cardio equipment.

An Instagram fantasy, the hotel has seemingly endless corners that hold charming surprises. As you stroll the grounds it will cross your mind that this would be the perfect place to hold a private event—but don’t get too excited: Due to its standing as a private social club, the hotel won’t allow takeovers in the spirit of ensuring its members can always stop by and enjoy the property.

Return visitors to Paris who are looking for a more relaxed and serene option, and don't mind being a taxi ride away from most sights.