4 . CheVal BlanC , Paris
LVMH Hospitality also likes to take its time creating : this new Parisian maison is its fifth hotel in 16 years . Occupying the iconic Samaritaine building , this first urban Cheval Blanc matches its four fabulous forebears . The centrally-located maison simultaneously feels resort-like – four restaurants ; Paris ’ s longest pool – and urbane , with a Dior Spa offering 30-minute ‘ happiness shots ’ for the time-poor .
3 . BeaVerBrook toWn house , london
One of Britain ’ s best country house hotels has come to West London . A huge investment from Beaverbrook ’ s passionate owners ( including chocolate-family heir Joel Cadbury ) has led to numerous 21st century comforts across 14 rooms , plus Japanese fine-dining and – sourced from classic London suppliers – many playful fabrics , fittings and furnishings . The hotel ’ s best trick , however , is to already feel like it has been here forever .
2 . airelles Chateau de Versaille , le grand Contrôle , Paris
Airelles could easily have been remiss with this former treasurer ’ s mansion outside Paris , such is its astonishing position in the Château de Versailles ’ grounds and its out-of-hours palace access . But all 14 airy bedrooms delight , their limited number creating an intimate feel , while the period furniture , spa and candlelit Alain Ducasse restaurant enchant .
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