Here we are, at the end of our five week ramble through England, Germany and France. Before taking the Eurostar back to London to catch our flight home, we thought we’d spend a couple of days in Paris.
On previous visits, we’ve stayed in small, usually friendly, hotels – next to the elevated railway, or above the Metro line, or up a long flight of stairs. In other words, cheap.
Not this time. We’re at Maison Souquet in Montmartre, just around the corner from the Moulin Rouge and at the base of Sacré-Cœur.
Back in the day, Madame Souquet would welcome the gentlemen of Paris for a bit of relaxation. And a little exercise.
Beautifully restored, this small hotel recreates the ambiance of past times, but in a more family-friendly way. I can’t say enough about the staff. Their level of attention to guests is so far beyond expectations (mine, anyway) as to be indescribable.
Let’s have a look. Here’s Mary Anne at the entrance. Note the red lights. The next photo is the reception area.
When you arrive, your butler (yes, that’s what they call him) gives you a tour and history lesson. We started in the parlor where the gentlemen would unwind from their day, exchange news and generally relax.
It’s where I’m sitting right now writing this post.
When they were properly in the mood, the boys would move to the bar for a drink and to meet the ladies. A stairway hidden behind a wall panel leads to the upper floors.
I have lots of photos of this room because, well, it’s the bar.
The bartender is an artist.
Before heading home to the wife and kids, one could relax in the conservatory with a drink and a cigar.
Here’s a painting at the bottom of the hidden stairway and a light from one of the bedrooms. Nice touches to help set the mood.
