Are you set on a Seine River cruise departing from the City of Light? How about taking a detour from the crowds around some of Paris’ most iconic landmarks?
Le Narcisse Blanc Hotel Spa, part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection, is one of the French capital’s best kept hotel secrets.
Tucked away on a leafy street between the Eiffel Tower and Les Invalides in Paris lies this Haussmann-built six-story building designed with an accent on charm and luxury.
Like the mysterious Left Bank on which it resides, the five-star boutique property’s interior design is inspired by a mysterious muse named Cléo de Mérode whose spirited ways as a Belle Epoque ballet dancer became the 20th century’s first “It Girl.”
Cléo captured the imagination of artists, writers and composers like Degas, Proust and composer Reynaldo Hahn who gave her the loving nickname, “Pretty Little Narcissus.” Now one of the newest hotels to open in the 7th District, Le Narcisse Blanc is inspired by this beautiful muse.
Now why should you stay?
Le Narcisse Blanc Hotel Spa Highlights
Immersed in floral motifs, the luxury hotel incorporates the energy, charm and the discreet hospitality that only the Parisian have perfected to a fine art. Experience fine service with a modern nod to the esoteric femme fatale. One of the finest places to imbibe in the Cléo theme is in the Petit Salon styled as a cozy sitting room. Flanked by fresh florals like blush pink tulips and other seasonal flowers, a demure female portrait overlooks patrons as attentive hotel staff ensure seamless service.
Suite Pluses
The accommodations which are spacious by Parisian standards evoke a sophisticated timeless ambiance matched by the soaring ceiling and an exquisite window treatment framed by long lavish drapes as streams of sunlight reflect off the double beds. 
Guests enjoy bespoke ensuite amenities like the haute custom-made toiletries created by an expert parfumier and devilish chocolate petit fours upon arrival. Rooms are available in various categories.
Hotel Perks
The only boutique hotel in the area which houses a pool, hammam and spa, robed hotel guests can arrive to the spa on the lower floor via a private elevator or use the fully stocked change room. Relax in the hot tub, steam and dry saunas then take a dip in the pool and enjoy the Art-Deco inspired spa in gleaming white marble with furniture designed by Paris design firm, Laurent & Laurence.
Hotel Diversions
For sightseeing, veer off the side streets like the Rue Saint Dominique to enjoy local sumptuous fine dining and elegant boutiques. Cruise guests departing from Paris on a Seine River cruise will find the quais of the major cruises a short taxi drive away.
Dining 
Dine in a sophisticated atmosphere at Cleo and sip wines from Chateau Soucherie. The Loire Valley-based domaine owned by the hotelier stocks the upscale eatery with fresh light white, bold red and rose wines for dining guests. Other French vintages are available.
Overall Impression
For the ultimate Paris sleepover experience true Parisian sophistication and elegance in the heart of the capital.
Booking
You can make your booking at the Le Narcisse Blanc Hotel Spa website.
Rates in the hotel vary according to season and room type but starting room rates are from $437 and from $1,345 for a suite. Go to Hotels.com or Expedia to check for lower rates.
Photography by Ilona Kauremszky and supplied. She was a guest of Le Narcisse Blanc Hotel Spa and Small Luxury Hotels of the World which did not approve this editorial.
