Olivier Bertrand’s fifth hotel property reopened its doors just off the Champs-Elysées, near the Arc de Triomphe in Paris’ 8^th Arrondissement, after a total reinvention of its interiors. Hôtel Balzac officially reopened this June, revealing a glass-roofed lounge, upscale spa and refreshed guestrooms.

© Matthieu Salvaing

Located in a turn-of-the-century building that sits on the site of the former home of 19^th-century French novelist Honoré de Balzac, this hotel features neutral tones, clean lines, and refined materials like wood and natural stone. Custom-made furniture reminiscent of the 1930s and ‘40s are reinterpreted with creative modernity.

This 5-star hotel, a member of Relais & Châteaux, spans 58 guestrooms and suites, some with open-air terraces and views of the Eiffel Tower. Accommodations embrace visual simplicity with high ceilings and a warm atmosphere. Guestrooms and suites include a Nespresso machine, bathtub or shower, Diptyque amenities, minibar, Bluetooth speaker and more.

© Matthieu Salvaing

Guests of the property enjoy a glass-domed lobby lounge, discrete bar and 3-Michelin-starred restaurant Pierre Gagnaire. This summer also sees the opening of Japanese-inspired Ikoi Spa. The glass lounge is the perfect place to relax or enjoy a peaceful breakfast, Caesar salad, truffled croque-monsieur, gourmet tea or coffee.

Resembling a chic Parisian speakeasy, the hotel’s bar features a menu of expertly mixed and highly inspired cocktails with Balzacian humor names. High-quality wines and spirits also accompany some Petrossian caviar specialties or a lobster roll.