By Naomi Serviss
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When Americans say “Four Seasons” in context of travel, they’re not talking about Vivaldi. They’re referring to top-of-the-line luxury accommodations. However, heed this caveat: when you’re in Paris and you tell a taxi driver to take you to the “Four Seasons” you might be met with a blank stare. Not because English is not understood. Because Parisians know this property as the George V (pronounced “Sank”). And in Paris everyone knows what the “George V” means. Outstanding luxury, incredible service and impeccable style, all steps away from the Champs Elysses.
So rest assured you will not be disappointed when you check into this recently refurbished state-of-the-art landmark hotel located a short walk away from the Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Concorde and the Eiffel Tower. Not that it needed spiffing up. It was always in gorgeous shape before 1999. But the hotel’s 2-year $125 million renovation, in collaboration with architect Richard Martinent and interior design wizard Pierre Yvess Rochon, has resulted in a breath-takingly beautiful work of art.
A total of 245 guest rooms includes 61 suites, and 30 have their own private balconies and terraces romantically overlooking the rooftops of one of the most fashionable quartier of Paris. The stunningly styled period décor matched with 21st-century infrastructure has created a remarkable visionary hotel experience.
The lobby itself is worth a visit, highlighted by immaculate marble columns and floors and augmented by flowers that simply glow with beauty. Architect Martinet, working with the unusual art deco façade and interior, commented, “The renovation has given us an incredible opportunity to return the building’s original charm and to reinforce the Hotel’s place in the architectural heritage of Paris.”
Arches have been restored to their original proportions, resulting in a grander perspective of the interior courtyard, which is both welcoming and private. Soft shades of beige, off-white and pale grey have lightened public places and richly textured fabrics and warm wood paneling from Normandy underscore the grandeur of the 13,000-square-foot meeting space. Tapestries from 17th century Flanders, a 500-square-foot Savonnerie carpet and an original bay window brings a feeling of greatness and history to this renowned property.
And a meal at the hotel’s famed Le Cinq may be pricey, but its well-earned 3-stars from the Michelin Guide proves that sometimes critics are right! A dining experience here is like a vacation—the service is constant but non-intrusive and you can linger for hours over a meal whose courses seem to improve with each serving.
Families are encouraged to bring their little ones to experience luxury on a small-scale: “George the Four Seasons Frog” was recently launched to introduce kids to manners, basic French sentences and a smattering of history. A welcome gift and special kid-friendly amenities will be found upon check-in, as will encouragement to participate in special games created just for them. All hotels should take notes!
A spa, unfortunately not available during my visit, should be up and running by the time you get there. Facilities include a swimming pool, cardiovascular equipment and fitness instruction as well as a separate men and women’s sauna, whirlpool, locker rooms, relaxation rooms and juice bar. Of course, massage services are also on the menu. Perhaps that’s enough incentive for me to return!
