The Esprit Saint-Germain is a smart, clubby hotel hiding behind a rather dull 18th century façade on the rue Saint-Sulpice. Sandwiched between the Boulevard Saint-Germain and the Luxembourg Gardens, this is a safe residential area with arty boutiques and an adequate assortment of cafés and restaurants. The livelier parts of the Left Bank are within easy walking distance leaving the streets around the hotel relatively quiet at night.
Esprit Saint-Germain has got the welcome just right. It’s rather like walking into a friend’s elegant drawing room, complete with open fire, blissfully comfy sofas and scented candles; you’re invited to have a drink from the bar (free throughout your stay) before being shown to your room by the ever-helpful reception staff.
Accommodations come in six categories: from the base-rate classique rooms which are really very small to the top-floor suite with its narrow furnished terrace. Prices are high but the attention to detail is faultless (tea and coffee maker, free mini bar, DVD player) and the standard of service is top notch (evening bed turn down, shoe-shine, even a luggage unpacking & packing service). The predominant colours of beige, chocolate and/or burgundy extend to the vaulted breakfast room where an ‘American’ breakfast can be provided at a supplement.
If you can afford the Esprit Saint-Germain, you’ll love it.