Text: Pikke Allen
Image: Edouard VII Hotel
The Palais Garnier is the centrepiece of a often overlooked neighborhood in Paris, poised above the expensive jewellery stores and designer boutiques. The Edouard 7th hotel, named after the English monarch who stayed there, is located on the Avenue de l’Opera, a funky and four star experience at the heart of this neighbourhood.
Having arrived through the almost hidden entrance which feels very secluded and romantic, you encounter the amusing lobby, decorated with unique fixtures and a colour scheme inspired by fashion. The bar is fun, and with a new decor and a separate street entrance it hopes to draw a new and hip crowd from the neighborhood. The deep colours and sensuous fabrics distinguish this enclave from the rest, as does the jovial bartender who makes a mean Lemon Drop Cocktail. Delicious! I shouldn’t forget to mention the artwork in the bar, which is a collection of images of beautiful women in sexy lingerie.
Many European hotels invest all their money on their lobbies and restaurants, relegating the rooms to an afterthought. Not so here. My room on the top floor had wonderful rooftop views, a sinfully large bathroom and tub, and a bed stuffed with 500 thread count sheets and my new favorite pillow, the European Square. The bed, with its deep red velvet headboard and leatherette walls, invited you to dive in and indulge.
The delightful breakfast that arrived to the room the next morning was a decent array of French classics, though the price was a little steep. The flat screen TV and internet access were easy to operate, suitable for techno-junkies and luddites alike. The service was friendly and helpful; the hotel staff and manager were quite accommodating despite my arrival after 6 on a Saturday evening without a reservation.
The hotel is conveniently located near to the Opera bus-stop, where you can hop on a bus that will take you directly to Charles De Gaulle Airport. So if you’re visiting Paris why not treat yourself to a stay at this decadent and delicious delight, or just go there to enjoy the atmosphere of the intimate bar.
Edouard VII Hotel
39, Avenue de l´Opera 75002