NICKY SUMMER: The Parisian elevator scene between Johnny Depp and Charlotte Gainsbourg in the movie ’Happily Ever After’ must be one of the sexiest in cinematic history – the tension, the anticipation, the spontaneity of their fleeting first meeting in a record store only moments before in what is possibly the best modern day ’Cinderella’ moment. Those watching the film don’t know exactly how the scene is going to end, but they can use their imagination as the antique lift slowly ascends through the floors of the hotel to the loft…
When you were here before
Couldn’t look you in the eye
You’re just like an angel
Your skin makes me cry
You float like a feather
In a beautiful world…”
RADIOHEAD
The lift scene cameo perfectly captures the essence of a decadent Parisian weekend, and there are few hotels that offer a perfect romantic backdrop more than the beautiful ‘golden era’ Belle Epoque ‘Le Narcisse Blanc’ on the Left Bank: intimacy, luxury, peace and privacy are the keywords – with views from the bedroom of the suite directly across the rooftops to the Eiffel Tower, majestic day or night…
For me, the perfect hotel experience includes not having to think too much or make any decisions – and a few unexpected surprises all add to the mix. At ‘Le Narcisse Blanche’ exquisite service combined with genuine care for the comfort of the guests is the hallmark of their hospitality. Every amenity has been carefully and generously curated – monogrammed black velvet slippers and heavy white bathrobes, luxurious branded shampoo, conditioner, bath salts, French soaps, body lotion, scented candles…
I didn’t choose the timing of our visit (early Autumn), the inbuilt view (a city panorama that includes Pont Alexandre III, Sacre Couer and Jardin des Tuileries) from the jasmine lined private terrace off the bath/shower/wet-room, or which of the perfectly chilled Champagnes was served… nor what background music played, the tone of the floral arrangements, what was selected from the menu for dinner, or even what time the meal arrived via room service – it all just happened, intuitively and flawlessly courtesy of the management, accompanied by a beautiful handwritten welcome note and gift…
The universe took care of a light breeze that filtered through the cream and gold-themed suite, front to back, rustling the golden Autumn leaves on the trees outside – with the bonus of one of the most spectacular sunsets I’ve ever witnessed…”
Nicky Summer
We didn’t ‘sight-see’ as we didn’t feel inclined to leave the suite for anything other than breakfast and the Clarins spa (below), but if we had ventured outside there were plenty of cafes, boutiques, art galleries and Parisian icons within easy walking distance – the Eiffel Tower, La Seine, Musee d’Orsay, Les Invalides, Musee Rodin…”
Nicky Summer
Besides the hotel itself, the delicious cuisine presented by chef Bruno Aubin in his restaurant ’Cleo’ and the impeccable service throughout, I’d say the most endearing factor of ’Le Narcisse Blanc’ is the genuine thoughtfulness of the staff – each member clearly revels in ensuring their guests have a memorable stay that lives up to all the expectations and dreams one has of a boutique hotel: Parisian Perfection.
LE NARCISSE BLANC:
