Four Seasons George V

As it enters its second century in business the Four Seasons Hotel George V remains central to the world of Parisian palace hotels, a genre, in fact, that it played some role in establishing. The location, on the border of the 8th’s ultra-luxe Golden Triangle, can quite rightly be called iconic, surrounded as it is by the biggest names in fashion. And the visual experience is quintessentially Parisian twice over — the architecture and interiors are a harmonious marriage of the hotel’s original Art Deco style and a thorough Louis XV restoration.

Proper luxury-hotel service is a particular point of pride here, as it should be from one of the hotels that arguably defined the form. And in a city not known for large hotel rooms the George V delivers ample spaces — the smallest of them span nearly 40 square meters, while the suites expand to residential proportions. Meanwhile the 11 Signature Suites add unique extravagances to their palatial dimensions; the Penthouse opens onto a terrace with a remarkable view of the Eiffel Tower.

Nor are the George V’s public spaces any less memorable. The spa, a 21st-century addition, is among the most lavish in town, and the hotel’s wine cave is a local legend, stocked with some 50,000 uncommon vintages. High tea in La Galerie is a must, as is a drink in Le Bar’s classically elegant atmosphere. And no less highly regarded are the George V’s restaurants, from the flagship Le Cinq to Le George and L’Orangerie.