The swanky Hotel Raphael Paris – a favorite haunt of Hollywood stars – lands on the prestigious list of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
Hotel Raphael Paris
One of most famous photos The greatest Cary Grant ever photographed shows him on the roof of a hotel in 1956, with the postcard-perfect skyline of Paris behind him. With his usual impeccable taste, the legendary actor, who had just started his legendary collaboration with Alfred Hitchcock, decided Hotel Raphael Paris like his luxurious digs when visiting the City of Lights.
Sixty-five years later, the five-star hotel, a bastion of timeless elegance, understated luxury and unparalleled service, is as alluring as ever, having recently opened a new rooftop terrace that Grant would surely have fascinated as much as Paris’ Beau Monde.
Hotel Raphael Paris
The property originally opened in 1925 and is part of the famous Parisian hotel group Les Hôtels Baverez, part of their boutique collection of five-star hotels that have been run by the same family for four generations.
It is also the newest Parisian member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) network, a collection of more than 500 small, independent, exclusive hotels in more than 90 countries known for their elegant accommodations, award-winning spas and acclaimed dining venues, each one absolutely unique.
The private terrace of one of the duplex suites at the Hotel Raphael Paris
The richly decorated Hotel Raphael Paris was designed to appeal to aristocrats, celebrities and society types, and quickly became known for its “intimate and private atmosphere” that offers guests a luxurious respite from the outside world.
The refined ambience, which persists to this day, is that of an elegant private villa. Far from being a mere time capsule, however, the Raphael Paris has evolved to meet the discerning tastes of each decade.
Signature Suite at the Hotel Raphael Paris
More recently, the hotel opened its gym in 2003; In 2007, the Presidential Suite debuted; In 2012 it was rated one of the best hotels in Paris by Condé Nast Traveler; and in 2018 it opened its new rooftop terrace, offering guests and locals alike an alluring eyrie with unsurpassed views.
It has also appeared in numerous films over the years and many famous actors alongside Grant including Gary Cooper, Clark Gable, Errol Flynn, Marlon Brando, Steve McQueen, Ava Gardner, Grace Kelly, Katherine Hepburn, Natalie Portman and Eva Mendes have his adorned posh rooms and public spaces.
English bar in the Hotel Raphael Paris
Steeped in history, this avenue Kléber property in Paris’ 16th arrondissement is located in one of Paris’ most desirable areas, right on the Champs-Élysées and close to the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower, with some suites overlooking the landmarks.
One of its most famous and award-winning features is the hotel’s wood-panelled, velvet-covered Bar Anglais, renowned for its classic cocktails and extensive whiskey selection, designed as a tribute to London’s famous gentleman’s clubs. It’s easy to imagine Grant and Flynn enchanting local Parisian beauties here over a martini or three.
Roof terrace at Hotel Raphael Paris
The hotel’s lushly planted rooftop terrace, which will reopen for the season this spring, is also a major draw in mild weather with its panoramic views of Paris, and particularly the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. It offers an all day menu, cocktails and of course champagne, ideal whether you are celebrating with friends or looking for a more intimate moment. And it’s the perfect combination with the hotel’s 83 elegant rooms and suites.
Eiffel Tower Suite at Hotel Raphael Paris
The hotel’s Eiffel Tower Suite with its private terrace also showcases the iconic structure and is decorated in classic Louis XV, Louis XVI and Directoire styles with genuine antiques, crystal chandeliers and an opulent fireplace.
The Signature Suites, on the other hand, are like a prestigious private residence in the heart of Paris and feature spacious living rooms with marble fireplaces. Then there are the elegant Prestige Suites with hand-painted murals, which also have two full bathrooms and are ideal for entertaining.
Presidential Suite at Hotel Raphael Paris
The Arc de Triomphe Terrace Suite is designed to appeal to those who prefer a more modern decor and want a view of the famous arch.
And the showpiece is the 1,000 square meter presidential suite with two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and a large living room with a marble fireplace, an office alcove and crystal chandeliers. It really is on par with the famous private palaces of Paris.
The elegant lobby of the Hotel Raphael Paris
All of this is complemented by luxe extras like the team of elite concierges at Les Clefs d’Or and toiletries by Bottega Veneta. “As we continue to expand our presence of luxury boutique hotels in Paris, Hotel Raphael is our latest addition, bringing the quintessential French elegance to the Small Luxury Hotels of the World portfolio,” notes Richard Hyde, Managing Director of SLH .
In a city like Paris, you might be spoiled for choice, but just like in Cary Grant’s day, the Hotel Raphael is still a notch above.
tags: Cary Gant Hotel Raphael Paris Hotels luxury hotels Paris SLH journeys
