Explore Enchanting Locations in France and Their Comparable Gems in the U.S.!
Voyage Éclat
TABLE contentsof
Mont Saint-Michel & Giverny
EXPLORE THE BEAUTY OF MONT SAINT-MICHEL AND THE CHARM OF GIVERNY.
Experience Bordeaux to Napa
DISCOVER THE EXQUISITE WINE EXPERIENCES OF BORDEAUX, FRANCE, AND NAPA VALLEY, WHERE EVERY SIP TELLS A STORY.
France’s Hidden Gem
DISCOVER FRANCE'S HIDDEN GEMS, WHERE STUNNING LANDSCAPES AND RICH CULTURE AWAIT.
French-Inspired Places to Visit in the U.S.
EXPLORE CHARMING FRENCH-INSPIRED CITIES IN THE USA, WHERE CULTURE AND CUISINE COME ALIVE.
French Beauty Must Have
UNVEIL THE ESSENCE OF FRENCH BEAUTY WITH ESSENTIAL SKINCARE, PERFUMES, AND MAKEUP.
Interview with Michaela Renee Johnson
7 PRIMAL WOUNDS
Voyage Éclat Travel Magazine
This month, we're celebrating the beauty of France and its rich culture, highlighting French inspirations and cities in the USA that echo its charm. Introducing VOYAGE ÉCLAT: An Insider's Guide by our Editor-in-Chief, Kathy Copcutt. May you have a VOYAGE ÉCLAT (Sparkling Voyage)!
Editor-in-Chief Kathy Copcutt
Managing Editor Cameron Copcutt
www.voyageeclat.com
kathy@voyageeclat.com
@voyageeclat
Content Director Shahla Owhady
Welcome to this month's issue, where we embark on a delightful journey from France to the charming French quarters right here in the U.S. If a trip to France isn't in your plans, fear not! We've curated a list of wonderful locations for you and your family to explore, bringing a taste of French culture closer to home.
fromthe editor letter
France holds a special place in my heart. When I first visited in my early 20s, I must confess that I wasn't fond of Paris. I vowed never to return. However, fate had other plans for me, and I found myself back in the City of Light. This time, I discovered the magic that Paris truly offers. From the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower to serene boat tours along the Seine, the city revealed its beauty in ways I could never have imagined. Shopping on the Champs Élysées, marveling at the art in the Louvre—each experience was enchanting.
One of my favorite districts, Montmartre, is a historic area known for its artistic heritage. Perched high in the 18th arrondissement, it boasts breathtaking views of the city and is adorned with cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and a lively atmosphere. If you ever find yourself in Paris, spending a day in Montmartre is a must!
As you read through this issue, I hope you find inspiration to explore the French quarters near you or even dream of a future trip to France.
"Le voyage est la seule chose qu'on achète qui nous rend plus riche." – Anonymous
Editor-in-Chief
KathyCopcutt
France
Mont-Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in a bay shared by Normandy and Brittany, was established as a religious sanctuary in 708, with the abbey construction beginning in 966 by Benedictine monks. This architectural marvel has a fascinating origin story: originally named Mont Tombe, it was founded after Archangel Michael appeared in a dream to Bishop Aubert of Avranches, urging him to build an oratory. After ignoring the request twice, the archangel finally left his mark by burning a hole in Aubert's skull, compelling him to heed the divine call and bring Mont-Saint-Michel to life
GGiverny, Nestled in the enchanting landscape of Normandy, France, this quaint and magical region serves as a wellspring of inspiration for artists, particularly those of the Impressionist movement. Renowned as the birthplace of Impressionism, Normandy captivated painters like Claude Monet with its unique light, stunning coastline, and breathtaking scenery, encouraging many to pick up a paintbrush and capture its beauty.
The very essence of Normandy has shaped the Impressionist legacy Its distinctive light and atmospheric conditions, especially along the coast and the Seine River, drew artists to its shores. Seaside towns such as Honfleur, Le Havre, Dieppe, Deauville, and Trouville-sur-Mer became vibrant canvases for these painters, providing picturesque settings that sparked creativity.
At the heart of this artistic journey lies Monet's beloved Giverny, where his lush gardens and serene water lilies inspired some of his most celebrated works.
Rouen also holds a special place in Impressionist history, as Monet's famed series depicting the city's majestic cathedral reflects the profound impact of its architecture and atmosphere. The Impressionists' commitment to outdoor painting allowed them to embrace the everchanging light and landscapes of Normandy, capturing fleeting moments that resonate even today.
As you wander through Normandy, the enduring legacy of these masterpieces can still be admired, inviting visitors to retrace the steps of the artists who found magic in its scenery and inspiring a new generation to explore their own creativity.
Bordeauxto Napa Experience
Discover the journey from Bordeaux, France, to Napa Valley, California, where the rich heritage of French winemaking meets the innovative spirit of California's vineyards.
Welcome to Bordeaux, France, a region steeped in rich history and renowned for its exceptional wines, making it a true paradise for wine lovers. With its picturesque vineyards, charming châteaux, and the scenic Garonne River, Bordeaux offers a captivating blend of culture and natural beauty. The region's diverse terroir, characterized by its clay, gravel, and limestone soils, contributes to the distinct flavors found in its wines, particularly the celebrated reds made from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
For those unable to visit Bordeaux, Napa Valley presents a remarkable alternative. Known for its stunning landscapes and world-class wineries, Napa Valley captures the essence of fine winemaking Here, visitors can explore a variety of vineyards, each offering unique tasting experiences and breathtaking views of rolling hills. The valley's commitment to sustainable practices and innovation in viticulture mirrors the tradition found in Bordeaux, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the world of wine. Whether in Bordeaux or Napa Valley, the experience of savoring exquisite wines amidst beautiful surroundings is truly unforgettable.
Renowned for its majestic allure, Domaine Carneros is a winery in Napa that mirrors the elegance of the Taittinger château in Champagne, France, co-owned by the esteemed Champagne brand, and boasts a stunning wrap-around terrace that provides breathtaking views of its beautifully arranged gardens and the scenic Carneros landscape, evoking the grandeur of Versailles.
Château Margaux origins reaching back to the 12th century, Château Margaux has evolved from a feudal estate known as "La Mothe de Margaux" into a prestigious wine producer, especially after coming under the stewardship of the Lestonnac family in the 16th century. Its legacy as a Premier Cru Classé was firmly established by the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, securing its esteemed position among the finest wineries in the world
Renowned for crafting some of the globe's most exquisite wines, Château Margaux boasts certain vintages that are particularly exceptional, making it essential for wine enthusiasts and collectors to identify the best years for building a valuable collection or making a significant investment. Situated in the Médoc region, this distinguished wine estate benefits from a unique terroir and has been under the ownership of the Mentzelopoulos family since 1977.
France'sHiddenGems
Discover our top 12 hidden gems in France, where enchanting landscapes and charming villages await your exploration!
When visiting France, these breathtaking locations are truly captivating. Start your journey in Paris, then catch a train to each stunning destination on your itinerary. The train system is easy to navigate, making travel a breeze, and for added comfort, you can even book sleeper cars on some routes, allowing you to rest peacefully and wake up refreshed at your next destination.
Eguisheim, Alsace
Just a 15-minute drive from Colmar and an hour from Strasbourg, Eguisheim is one of France's bestkept secrets. With its vibrant facades, charming Alsatian architecture, and stork nests, this picturesque village feels like a fairy tale come to life.
L'île Louet, Carantec
This charming, tiny island in Carantec's Morlaix Bay is a delightful escape. Named after Monsieur Louët, a close friend of its first owner, Charles Cornic, it now offers overnight stays managed by the Carantec tourist office.
Menton, Côte d'Azur
Nestled near the Italian border, Menton is one of France's most colorful towns. While it may not be as famous as Nice or Cannes, it has become a sought-after resort on the Côte d'Azur, just a 50-minute drive from Nice Airport—ideal for extended stays or day trips.
France’s Hidden Gems
Colmar, Alsace
Over time, Colmar has blossomed into one of France's most popular destinations, frequently attracting visitors who rave about its beauty. The city was even voted "Best Destination for Spring" by travelers worldwide.
La Roque Gageac, Dordogne
Situated in the Dordogne region, La Roque Gageac is an ideal off-the-beatenpath getaway. While here, explore the stunning Dordogne Valley, including sacred Rocamadour and the charming village of Collonges-la-Rouge.
Sénanque, Gordes - Luberon
Home to the stunning Notre-Dame de Sénanque Abbey, Gordes is recognized as one of France's most beautiful villages. Visitors can explore both the abbey and the picturesque village with its famous ‘gories’ in a single day.
Nonza, Corsica
Located in southern Corsica, the quaint village of Nonza is a mere hour from Bastia Airport and is celebrated as one of France's most beautiful villages.
Cancale, Brittany
An hour's drive from both Saint-Brieuc and Rennes airports, Cancale is a hidden gem known for its delectable wild oysters, turquoise waters, and stunning beaches. This quaint town, home to 5,000 residents, attracts visitors from around the globe.
Riquewihr, Alsace
Renowned as one of Alsace's most beautiful villages, Riquewihr is a standout among off-the-beaten-path destinations in France. Its well-preserved architectural heritage remains intact, thanks to being spared during both World Wars.
Estérel Massif, Golden Island
The majestic Estérel Massif is one of France's remarkable natural wonders. Located in Var, this volcanic mountain range is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and beaches, regarded as some of the finest in the country.
Eze, Côte d'Azur
Perched on a rocky peak overlooking the Mediterranean, Eze is a stunning 13th-century village just minutes from Nice. Visitors are drawn to its picturesque views and authentic medieval charm.
L'île Louet, Carantec - Morlaix - Brittany
This charming, tiny island in Carantec's Morlaix Bay is a delightful escape. Named after Monsieur Louët, a close friend of its first owner, Charles Cornic, it now offers overnight stays managed by the Carantec tourist office.
Nonza, Corsica
Louise Carmen Paris
Louise Carmen
With a mission to create beautiful and user-friendly inspirational notebooks that reflect your essence, Louise Carmen has captured the hearts of many. Renowned in Paris for their exceptional quality and artisanal craftsmanship, these luxurious journals offer customizable features that allow you to infuse your personality into every detail. From personalized initials to custom phrases, each journal becomes a cherished keepsake, encouraging you to document your adventures and manifest your aspirations. You can experience the magic in person by visiting their enchanting stores in Paris, or conveniently order them online to begin your journey of self-expression and discovery from anywhere in the world.
Visiting Paris for the first time is like stepping into a vibrant painting, where every brushstroke tells a story of beauty and wonder. The city is alive with a vivacious array of sensations, from the dazzling city lights that twinkle like stars against the night sky to the intoxicating scents of fragrant French perfumes wafting through the air.
At the heart of this enchanting experience lies the iconic Moulin Rouge, a pulsating hub of music and dance that draws you in with its vibrant energy. The shows are a dazzling array of color and movement, capturing the essence of Parisian nightlife. Just a short stroll away stands the Eiffel Tower, a majestic iron lattice that dominates the skyline. Ascending it offers an unparalleled view of the sprawling city below, a mosaic of rooftops and monuments bathed in golden sunlight
A serene boat tour along the Seine reveals the city’s hidden charms As you glide past historic bridges and timeless architecture, the gentle lapping of water creates a tranquil soundtrack, allowing you to soak in the beauty of Paris at a leisurely pace. Shopping on the Champs Élysées is an experience in itself, where luxury boutiques and quaint cafés coexist, offering a delightful mix of indulgence and relaxation.
The Louvre, a treasure trove of art and culture, invites you to marvel at masterpieces that span centuries. Each hallway is a portal into the past, showcasing the genius of artists who have shaped history.
Among the favorite districts is Montmartre, a bohemian haven perched high in the 18th arrondissement This historic area is steeped in artistic heritage, where the spirit of creativity still lingers in the air. Its cobblestone streets wind through a tapestry of charming cafés, each with a story to tell. As you stroll through this lively neighborhood, breathtaking views of the city unfold before you, reminding you of the beauty that Paris holds at every turn.
In every corner, Paris reveals itself in ways I could never have imagined, each experience, enchanting and unforgettable, weaving together a rich tapestry of memories that will forever linger in my heart.
Lyon
Embark on a magical journey from the enchanting city of Paris to the vibrant heart of Lyon, a mere 1 hour and 53 minutes by train, where the picturesque French countryside unfolds like a painted tapestry. In a single day brimming with adventure, indulge in the exquisite flavors of Lyonnaise cuisine, glide through the charming streets in a pedicab, and marvel at the majestic basilica that stands as a sentinel of history. Explore the echoes of time in ancient Roman amphitheaters, still alive with the spirit of performance.
Lyon, the illustrious birthplace of cinema, cradles the legacy of the Lumière brothers, who captured the world's first moving image here in 1895. The city’s cinematic charm extends through its streets, having been the backdrop for films that resonate through time, including the captivating "The Clockmaker" and "Les Lyonnais."
Renowned as the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon tantalizes the senses with its Michelinstarred restaurants and beloved "bouchons," where culinary wonders like quenelle de brochet and saucisson await. Vibrant food markets like Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse beckon with an array of local delicacies, inviting all to savor the richness of its culinary heritage.
Steeped in history, Lyon's roots trace back to its Roman past as Lugdunum, where remnants of grandeur still whisper tales from Fourvière Hill. The UNESCO-listed Renaissance architecture of Vieux Lyon enchants with its winding cobblestone streets, hidden courtyards, and the intriguing traboules, once trodden by silk workers. Meanwhile, modern masterpieces like the Musée des Confluences and the striking "Orange Cube" reflect the city's innovative pulse.
With a vibrant cultural scene alive with theaters, an opera house, and the celebrated Musée des Beaux Arts, Lyon's spirit dances through its festivals, such as the luminous Fête des Lumières and the artistic Nuits de Fourvière. Each moment in this captivating city is a brushstroke on the canvas of experience, inviting you to lose yourself in its charm.
Lyon, France
Église Saint-Georges is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, designed by the renowned architect Pierre Bossan, who also crafted the iconic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Officially opened in 1848, the church showcases intricate details and soaring structures that reflect the artistic aspirations of its time.
Nestled on the banks of the picturesque Saône River, the church is situated at Place François-Bertras in the 5th arrondissement of Lyon, offering a serene backdrop that enhances its architectural beauty.
Under the stewardship of the Primatiale parish, Église Saint-Georges is dedicated to Saint George and stands as a vital landmark in Lyon. It embodies the city’s rich history, spiritual heritage, and artistic legacy, making it a must-visit site for both locals and tourists alike.
French-Inspired Places to Visit in the U.S.
Discover five U.S. spots that captur Orleans with its lively French Quarter, Savannah s historic elegance, Charleston’s refined architecture, Napa Valley’s scenic vineyards, and San Francisco’s cosmopolitan vibe.
Experience France in the USA!
NewOrleans,Louisiana
Known for its vibrant French Quarter, New Orleans is rich in French culture, architecture, and cuisine The streets are lined with wrought-iron balconies, and you can enjoy authentic Creole and Cajun dishes.
Savannah,Georgia
With its charming cobblestone streets, historic homes, and beautiful public squares, Savannah exudes a romantic, European vibe that resembles some of the quieter towns in France.
Charleston,SouthCarolina
NapaValley,California
Known for its vineyards and wineries, Napa Valley offers a taste of French wine country The region's beautiful landscapes and gourmet restaurants create a French-like atmosphere
Similar to Savannah, Charleston boasts well-preserved historic architecture and a rich culinary scene. The city's ambiance and southern hospitality can remind visitors of France. 05 04 03
SanFrancisco,California
With its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, vibrant arts scene, and diverse culinary options, San Francisco has a cosmopolitan feel similar to cities like Paris. The city's neighborhoods, like North Beach, also have a European charm. Église Notre Dame Des Victoires is a Catholic church located in San Francisco, California Established in 1856, the church was created to serve the French Catholic community
Must haves FrenchBeauty
Discover Sothys: The Essence of French Beauty
Indulge in the luxury of Sothys, a prestigious French skincare brand that has redefined beauty since 1946. Founded by the visionary Dr. Hotz in Paris, Sothys is synonymous with excellence in professional treatments and at-home skincare.
Sothys offers an exquisite range of products, including cleansers, serums, creams, and masks, crafted to bring the spa experience directly to you. Elevate your skincare routine with formulations that blend well-being and efficacy.
With a family-owned legacy led by Christian Mas, Sothys is committed to rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness. Each product is designed to deliver results you can see and feel.
Sothys utilizes innovative active ingredients such as root extracts, the unique BP3 tri-complex (saffron-sophora-peptides), and marine exopolysaccharides, ensuring your skin receives the best nature has to offer.
Join the ranks of beauty aficionados who trust Sothys for their skincare needs. Experience the allure of French beauty and transform your skin today!
Unlock Youthful Radiance with Yon-Ka's Anti-Aging Collections!
Transform your skincare routine with Yon-Ka Paris, the quintessential French brand renowned for its expertly crafted anti-aging collections. Harness the power of natural ingredients and advanced formulations designed to target the signs of aging, delivering visibly youthful and radiant skin.
Born from the botanical passion of the Mühlethaler family on a charming farm, Yon-Ka began its journey by creating a unique essence of essential oils for medical use, aiding in the treatment of burns during World War II. This legacy of excellence continues to thrive today.
Join the ranks of celebrities like Sherilyn Stetz, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Jennifer Lopez, and Angelina Jolie, who trust Yon-Ka facials and skincare products for their beauty needs. Experience the transformative power of Yon-Ka, available exclusively at Estelle Beauty Lounge.
Embrace the essence of French skincare and reveal your most luminous self with YonKa!
Les Eaux Primordiales
Experience the Elegance of Le Soin Primordial by Les Eaux Primordiales
Introducing Le Soin Primordial, a captivating new skincare range from Les Eaux Primordiales, infused with the iconic notes of the Couleur Primaire fragrance. Embrace purity and delicacy in perfect harmony, offering you a stunning sensorial experience with every application.
This exquisite trilogy of cleansing and comforting skincare products isn’t just complementary; it’s a transformative ritual. With a fresh, addictive fragrance, Le Soin Primordial elevates your daily skincare routine to new heights of freshness and softness.
Founded by visionary perfumer Arnaud Poulain, Les Eaux Primordiales emerged from a rich background in craftsmanship and a passion for olfactory artistry. Arnaud's journey began in Arras, where his family’s dedication to artisan values inspired him to explore the world of fragrances. After discovering his remarkable sense of smell, he trained under the guidance of mentor Amélie Bourgeois, setting the stage for his creative evolution.
Since establishing Les Eaux Primordiales in 2015, Arnaud has become known for his boundless creativity and innovative spirit. Each fragrance is a work of art, infused with childhood memories and emotional reactions to the world around him. His artistic vision is fueled by painting, photography, and the emotions they evoke, ensuring that every scent tells a story.
Indulge in Le Soin Primordial and let the artistry of Les Eaux Primordiales transform your skincare experience into a dreamlike journey. Discover the future of fragrance and skincare today!
Embrace Nature with Le Rouge Français
Discover Le Rouge Français, the revolutionary plant-based makeup brand that redefines beauty with a commitment to sustainability! Utilizing natural pigments from Madder, Indigo, Damask Rose, and Hibiscus, Le Rouge Français replaces synthetic colors with vibrant, botanical alternatives through a patented process.
Founded in 2018 by Elodie Carpentier and Salem Ghezaili, this bio-cosmetics brand prioritizes your health and the environment, all while exuding French elegance. Every formula is organic, vegan, and completely free from petroleum, mica, chemical pigments, and titanium dioxide.
Certified by ECOCERT, Le Rouge Français ensures that at least 95% of ingredients are natural, using only recyclable materials in their packaging. Plus, every order contributes 1% to plant baby mangrove trees in Indonesia, making your beauty choices impactful!
Proudly made in France’s “Cosmetic Valley” in Normandy, Le Rouge Français is your go-to choice for eco-conscious, cruelty-free cosmetics. Elevate your makeup routine with the beauty of nature!
BreakingFree:Dr.MichaelaRenee
JohnsonExploresthe7PrimalWounds inHerTransformativeNewBook
In her groundbreaking book, 7 Primal Wounds: Break the Patterns Keeping You Stuck, Dr. Michaela Renee Johnson, a licensed marriage and family therapist, takes readers on a heartfelt journey to uncover the hidden beliefs that sabotage our relationships, careers, and self-worth. With over a decade of experience working with couples and individuals, Johnson has identified a recurring theme: despite their desire for change, many people find themselves trapped in the same emotional patterns.
“Throughout my years as a therapist and coach, I realized there’s a root cause hiding in plain sight: primal wounds,” Johnson explains. “I wrote this book to expose them, name them, and guide people toward breaking the patterns that keep them stuck.”
In her work, Johnson combines insights from neuroscience, therapeutic practice, and case studies drawn from her extensive clinical experience. She reveals seven core wounds that shape human behavior, such as “I am insignificant,” “I am not good enough,” and “I am damaged.” Her aim is to help readers rewrite their emotional narratives and reclaim their lives.
The Inspiration Behind the Book
When asked what inspired her to write 7 Primal Wounds, Johnson candidly shares, “Honestly? My life. I’ve had enough plot twists to keep Netflix in business for a decade failed marriages, career pivots, growing up in poverty, and even winning an air race. I wanted to turn all that turbulence into a flight plan for those feeling stuck in a perpetual emotional loop.”
Through her personal experiences and professional expertise, Johnson provides a unique perspective on healing. She identifies primal wounds as the deep emotional bruises we acquire early in life, which dictate our reactions, relationships, and self-sabotaging behaviors.
Recognizing Primal Wounds
Johnson’s clinical observations reveal a familiar pattern among individuals and couples struggling with these wounds. “It’s the same dance, different song, ” she notes. “People either armor up and attack or disengage and become resentful. One partner’s wound often triggers the other’s, leading to a cycle of defensiveness and withdrawal.”
Understanding these wounds is crucial for personal and relational growth. By naming the wounds, individuals can shift from blaming each other to recognizing the deeper emotional triggers at play. This awareness transforms the dynamic from a reactive battle to a collaborative healing process.
The Intersection of Neuroscience and Therapy
Johnson emphasizes the connection between neuroscience and therapeutic insights in her work. “Your brain is like a high-tech computer running on ancient software,” she explains. “Neuroscience explains why primal wounds impact us the way they do. They activate our amygdala, triggering a fight-or-flight response before we even know why.”
By integrating these fields, Johnson provides readers with the tools to rewire their emotional responses, helping them to navigate their relationships without being held hostage by past traumas.
Practical Steps to Healing
For those eager to address their primal wounds, Johnson recommends a series of practical steps. “Start by recognizing when you become activated in relationships or at work,” she advises. “Take a moment to pause, breathe, and get curious instead of furious. Ask yourself, ‘The story I’m telling myself is...’ This helps you detach from the emotional narrative and see it from a different angle.”
By identifying which part of oneself is activated and allowing time for reflection, individuals can begin to heal. This process involves letting go of immediate reactions and seeking repair from the part of themselves that needs it most.
Success Stories of Transformation
Johnson shares a powerful success story from her practice: “I had a couple married for 20 years, caught in a sexless marriage filled with resentment. They thought they were fighting over trivial matters, but once they recognized the deeper wounds him feeling insignificant, her feeling inadequate they shifted their focus. They moved from arguing about chores to addressing the real issues, ultimately reigniting their intimacy.”
A New Perspective on Emotional Wellness
As Johnson embarks on an aerial book tour to promote *7 Primal Wounds*, she hopes to inspire a new conversation about emotional wellness and relational health. “I wanted to create an adventure that shows facing fears can be both fun and terrifying,” she reflects. “I want people to understand that they’re not broken. If I can acknowledge my wounds and still take flight, so can they.”
Looking ahead, Johnson is eager to explore how primal wounds manifest in business settings, shaping decisions and team dynamics She’s also intrigued by the intersection of human connection, vulnerability, and the impacts of technology on our relationships
Through her insightful work, Dr Michaela Renee Johnson invites us to confront our hidden wounds and embrace the journey toward emotional healing and self-discovery With clarity and compassion, she empowers readers to break free from the patterns that hold them back, offering a pathway to a more fulfilling life
Nestled on the prestigious Avenue Montaigne, Hôtel Plaza Athénée is far from an ordinary hotel—it's a luxurious experience that embodies the essence of Paris. Known as the heart of French fashion, this iconic location invites guests to indulge in the very best that the City of Light has to offer.
Hôtel Plaza Athénée: The Haute Couture Address in the Heart of Paris
At Hôtel Plaza Athénée, dining is elevated to an art form with five exquisite restaurants and bars. Each venue presents a unique atmosphere designed to cater to every mood, making it all too tempting to linger within the hotel’s elegant confines.
Paris, the City of Light and Love, captivates with its charming cobblestone streets and tree-lined boulevards. The iconic Eiffel Tower watches over the city, infusing it with a spirit that is both passionate and inviting. Every corner reveals a story, shaped by the vibrant personalities of its inhabitants.
Whether you're seeking a culinary adventure or a taste of high fashion, Hôtel Plaza Athénée promises an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most enchanting cities.
Hôtel du Couvent, Nice
Discovering Hôtel du Couvent: A Historic Gem in Nice’s Old Town
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Nice’s Old Town, the Hôtel du Couvent stands as a testament to the city’s rich history, dating back to the 17th century. This former convent, which last welcomed guests in the 1980s under the stewardship of the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary, has been given a stunning new lease on life thanks to the vision of hotelier Valéry Grégo.
Ten years ago, the mayor of Nice sought out Grégo, known for his innovative approach to hospitality with acclaimed properties like Les Roches Rouges and Le Pigalle. His mission was to revive this historic landmark, originally established in 1604 by the nuns of the Order of Saint Claire, who skillfully crafted the building from local materials, much of it salvaged from a nearby chateau. The mayor envisioned a destination hotel that would attract discerning travelers, transforming Nice from a mere stopover into a sought-after destination in its own right.
After a decade-long restoration process that meticulously preserved the convent’s architectural integrity while infusing it with modern luxury, Hôtel du Couvent opened its doors in June this year. The hotel features 88 beautifully curated rooms and suites, each reflecting impeccable taste. Guests will find a harmonious blend of custom furnishings and period antiques, complemented by thoughtfully selected books and exquisite barware in the minibars. Even the bath products and stationery are elegantly designed, down to the charming "Do Not Disturb" medallions adorned with ribbons.
A highlight of the Hôtel du Couvent is its on-site bakery, housed in the convent’s original baking facility, where fresh flour is milled daily to create delightful pastries for guests.
For those seeking relaxation, the hotel embraces Roman bathing traditions with multiple pools, each set at different temperatures. Wellness offerings include soothing massages using oils personally selected by Gregory, the resident herbalist, along with a dedicated movement studio. A stunning lap pool provides breathtaking views over the city and the sparkling Mediterranean, making it an idyllic spot to unwind.
Hôtel du Couvent is not just a hotel; it is a celebration of history, raftsmanship, and the art of hospitality, inviting visitors to experience the charm of Nice in a way that is both luxurious nd deeply rooted in tradition.
SEZANE
