Hotel in France wins award for grand redesign

National Geographic Traveller has announced the winners and runners-up of its annual Big Sleep Awards, celebrating the best hotels in the world, including three in France

All the things which make a hotel truly exceptional, from service through to eco credentials, have been celebrated at this year’s Big Sleep Awards.

National Geographic Traveller (UK) set out to find the best new tastemakers, trendsetters and game-changers in the business across 16 categories and have selected their favourite hotels from around the world, including destinations such as Australia, America, China, Italy and France.

The winner of the Grand redesigns category is Hotel Lutetia, a luxury five star hotel in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris.

The judging panel of travel writers and editors, said: “Four years and €200 million (£180 million) after closing for renovation, the Left Bank’s leading lady reopened her art nouveau doors last summer.

“In a city where five-star hotels are par for the course, the Lutetia stands out for heritage alone, having ushered in everyone from Picasso to Pitt, Joyce to Jagger.

“Its new generation of guests can nod off in one of 184 contemporary-styled rooms and suites, take a dip in the marble pool, or sip a cocktail at the beautiful Bar Joséphine, replete with restored ceiling frescoes.

“Mark our words – this is a new benchmark for hotels à la parisienne.”

Hotel Lutetia is an iconic landmark and the only luxury hotel on Paris’ Left Bank. Originally opened in 1910, the building’s design was a daring move, transitioning from art nouveau to the emerging style of art deco.

The hotel now features an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars and lounges throughout the historical ground floor, including the return of the Lutetia Brasserie under the supervision of three Michelin starred chef Gérald Passedat.

It also has a spa, the Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre, featuring a 17m swimming pool.

Other hotels in France which were recognised in the Big Sleep Awards 2019 include Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey in Bommes, Gironde, which was a runner-up in the Lord of the manor category.

The judges said: “The transformation of this 18th-century wine estate into a luxurious hotel has seen a careful restoration, involving spectacular chandeliers and the creation of a sumptuous restaurant.”

D’Une Île in Rémalard, Normandy, also came runner-up in the Gourmet getaway category.

The judges said: “Along with Théo Pourriat, Bertrand Grébaut — from Paris restaurant Septime — transformed a French country house into a show-stopper of a restaurant with rooms that champion rustic, regional produce.”

A total of 48 hotels received recognition in this year’s Big Sleep Awards. For the full list, visit nationalgeographic.co.uk

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