Immersed in artistic and literary history, the Hotel Pont Royal in Paris is a sanctuary for imaginative individuals. The hotel’s lobby is adorned with framed portraits of famous writers like Albert Camus and Oscar Wilde, cultivating a literary ambiance. Nestled in the cultural Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, the hotel provides guests with the chance to steep themselves in the vibrant past and atmosphere of the Left Bank.
During the interwar era, the hotel’s bar became a renowned meeting spot for literary and artistic luminaries such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Joan Miró, and Ernest Hemingway. This legacy endures today, with the hotel’s mixologist, Frederic Maitre, crafting exquisite cocktails like the gin-infused ‘Grant Green’ and the Remy Martin-inspired ‘The Duke.’ The bar’s setting exudes inspiration from a bygone time, encouraging visitors to write and conjure the spirits of the past.
Along with its literary legacy, the Pont Royal Hotel showcases mesmerizing panoramic vistas of Paris. Guests can savor iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, and the Grand Palais from the balcony of room 705 on the seventh floor. Surveying the dynamic city life from such heights is a calming experience, especially with a potent drink in hand. Evenings on the veranda are enchanting, as the Eiffel Tower twinkles with lights, casting a romantic hue over the metropolis.
Our room, though cozy akin to most Parisian lodgings, featured ample storage, a comfortable armchair, and a petite table. The bathroom boasted both a tub and a shower, ensuring a pleasant stay. Breakfast at the inviting Salon Mosaic, bathed in natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a Japanese garden, was delightful. The buffet spread included a variety of choices such as fresh fruits, cheeses, and personalized egg dishes.
For a delightful post-breakfast sojourn, it’s recommended to bring your preferred beverage to the adjacent Salon Velin. This refined sitting area is adorned with arc-shaped lights, artworks reminiscent of Jackson Pollock by Martina della Rocca, and book-filled shelves. The glass-topped tables, lush armchairs, and sofas foster a hospitable setting for literary discussions or moments of introspection. Just past this area is The Signature Bar, exuding a vintage cigar lounge vibe with its cozy leather armchairs and mahogany walls. On Monday nights, jazz performances transport guests to a bygone era.
The proprietors of the hotel, Denise Dupré and Mark Nunnelly, who also own properties in Champagne, Burgundy, and St. Barts, have planned a series of author-centric evenings to honor the hotel’s literary history. These events are set to commence in the fall. With attractions like the Seine, the Louvre, and the Musée d’Orsay within walking distance, the Pont Royal Hotel serves as the ideal centrally located hub for exploring Paris.
For navigating Paris, I rely on the efficient services of Blacklane, an international network spanning multiple countries. The diverse drivers of this company engage in intriguing conversations, presenting unique insights into various cultures and histories. During one journey, our chauffeur Karen shared captivating anecdotes about Armenia, enriching our overall experience.
Lastly, make sure to visit Galerie Jantzen, an enchanting shop just a brief five-minute stroll away. Prepare to be dazzled by its wonders – but I’ll leave the rest to your own discovery.
