Relais Christine

Character and identity

Tucked down a quiet side street off Saint-Germain-de-Prés, behind a leafy passageway, this 48-room hideaway occupies a 17th-century former private mansion built on the vaulted cellars of a 13th-century abbey. Designer Laura Gonzalez has layered classic French furnishings (antiqued at Les Puces de Saint-Ouen) with fringed English-style sofas, 18th-century chinoiserie and Pierre Frey or Le Manach fabrics on walls and headboards. Those medieval cellars now hold the breakfast room, a small gym and a jewel-box Spa Guerlain with two treatment rooms, sauna and Jacuzzi. There's no restaurant, but expect afternoon tea in the garden, an honour bar and round-the-clock room service from a limited menu.

Who's it for

Bottom line

The appeal is the secret-address atmosphere and the residential design, not the facilities, so come for a quiet, anchored Paris stay rather than a full-service hotel experience. Couples should book a duplex or garden suite for the canopy beds, mansard roofs or outdoor seating; confirm tub versus shower in advance, and take advantage of the complimentary valet parking and bike rentals.