New Luxury Hotel Opens at the Palace of Versailles
A new luxury hotel opens today on the grounds of the Palace of Versailles, one of France’s most visited attractions and the former residence of Louis XIV and Marie-Antoinette.
The Majesty of the Palace of Versailles
The site of royal decadence and debaucheries before the French Revolution, the Palace of Versailles – now a grand museum – is among the most visited attractions in France, second only to the Eiffel Tower. With its chandelier-laden Hall of Mirrors and roughly 2300 rooms filled with paintings, tapestries, and other treasures, it presents a breathtaking sight. Even the landscaped gardens are a masterpiece.
A New Attraction at the Palace
From today, it is the setting for one of the most anticipated hotel openings of the year. The Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle features 14 luxurious rooms, overseen by architect and designer Christopher Tollemer, known for previous collaborations with the Airelles brand including their flagship hotel, the five-star Alpine Les Airelles Courchevel. The hotel draws inspiration from Louis XVI’s personal style, showcasing designs reminiscent of the 18th century. It includes a private spa by Valmont and a restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse, renowned for Le Jules Verne.
Exclusive Experiences Await
This luxury hotel, strategically located on the palace grounds, grants guests exclusive access to the iconic château ‘after hours,’ allowing for private tours, including visits to Marie Antoinette’s much-loved English Gardens and Louis XIV’s Grand Trianon. Each room features its own dedicated butler, and guests can enjoy unique experiences such as secret dinners in The Orangery Gardens and private concerts in The Royal Opera Theatre.
The Road to Opening
The hotel was initially slated to welcome guests in 2020, but its grand opening faced delays due to the pandemic. Now, it opens just a week before France reopens to international visitors on June 9.
Pricing and More Information
Experiencing a royal sleepover on the grounds of Versailles comes with a price tag. Rates begin at approximately €1700 (US$2070) per night for two adults. For further details, visit here.
Visit the Palace of Versailles
For those whose budgets may not accommodate such luxury stays, the palace remains accessible. Visitors can explore the magnificent 18th-century rooms, as Château de Versailles has reopened to the public after a period of closure. Social distancing measures are in place, and protective masks are required indoors. Tickets can be acquired online.
This article was first published on October 12, 2019 and updated on June 1, 2021.
