No matter the time of year, Paris is always a good idea. However, there’s something about Paris in the Spring – the gardens blossoming, the nights lengthening, the fashion popping – that makes it even more special.
Which is exactly why, when I got the invitation to join my friend Sarah Falconer and the ever-stylish Experimental Group on a trip to Paris & Biarritz in late March, my answer was always going to be a resounding ‘OUI’!
No matter the time of year, Paris is always a good idea
The Fantasy of Paris
Like any capital city, Paris is ever evolving, with new hotels, restaurants and attractions emerging all the time. Having had a few places on my radar for a while, myself and good friend Victoria, decided to fly out a day early to see as much as we could and spend a night at La Fantaisie – one of the city’s newest and playful boutique hotel offerings.
Perfectly located in the 9th arrondissement, a short walk from Pigalle, Les Grands Magasins, and the buzz of Montmartre – La Fantaisie is a whimsical delight! Think florals, bold colours, and a signature scent that lingers beautifully as you move through the property.
Le Fantaisie Highlights:
- A lush Garden Terrace just off the main restaurant
- A Rooftop Bar with chic views of the city
- A hidden Roman Baths and Spa on the lower level—an absolute gift after a day of sightseeing
Our first afternoon was spent visiting some Paris icons. We strolled from the Louvre along the Seine to Notre Dame and back via Musée d’Orsay, Pont Alexandre III and Le Grand Palais, only to reward ourselves with cocktails at the opulent Bar Les Ambassadeurs at the Rosewood Hôtel de Crillon overlooking Place de la Concorde.
We couldn’t resist stopping by the iconic, grand hotel Le Bristol, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Passing through the foyer, filled with the most stunning floral arrangements, we made our way up to the Honeymoon Suite on the top floor – boasting sweeping views across all the landmarks of Paris, it has to be one of the most beautiful and unique suites in the city. Naturally, we made time for cocktails at the infamous Le Bar du Bristol where glamour lingers in every detail.
Paris: The Experimental Way
The following morning, we took a casual stroll up to Montmartre and Le Sacré-Cœur before our rendezvous with Sarah and the rest of the group for a delicious lunch at Hôtel Grand Pigalle. Here began our fabulous experience and remaining time in Paris the Experimental way…
Hotel Grand Pigalle
One of three Experimental properties in Paris, Grand Pigalle is the most bijou of the trio, oozing with the typical charm of the 9th Arrondissement. It’s 37 rooms are effortlessly stylish and tell a story of history and place. Just minutes from Le Moulin Rouge, I could easily imagine returning after dinner and show, to cozy up on a crisp autumn or winter night, in fact I plan to do just that this October!
As a serious perfume and candle lover, I was incredibly excited to spend the afternoon at Maison Diptyque, the flagship store of iconic Parisian fragrance brand Diptyque. Our group was given exclusive access and a private tour of the store before sitting down to learn about the history and craftsmanship behind their legendary scents.
A classic Paris scented candle in ribbed glass holder now sits proudly in my kitchen, bringing back fond memories of this incredible experience every time I burn it.
Experimental Grand Boulevard Hotel
Our first location of the evening brought us to Experimental Grand Boulevard Hotel for pre-dinner drinks at their buzzy rooftop bar The Shed.
Tucked away between the 2nd and 9th Arrondissements, this vibrant property offers the perfect blend of romance and atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a memorable escape.
Experimental Marais
Drinks were followed by a truly exceptional meal at Temple et Chapon, a moody, elegant brasserie and signature restaurant of Experimental Marais – think twinkling candlelight, oversized chandeliers and fine dining with a touch of theatrical flair.
It’s here we rested our heads for the night. Previously occupied by the hedonistic Hotel Sinner, this 5-star property has been sprinkled with Experimental’s distinct flair and transformed into a retro inspired, luxury hideaway in the heart of the lively Marais district.
From City Chic to Coastal Cool Biarritz
The next morning, we boarded a train for the four-hour journey to Biarritz on France’s ‘Basque Coast’. While the French Riviera attracts a polished, jet-set crowd with its glossy beach clubs and Riviera chic, the Basque Coast lures a more laid-back, surf-loving set drawn to its raw beauty, soulful cuisine, and effortlessly cool edge.
Regina Experimental Biarritz
Perched above the bay with sweeping sea views, we arrived at the stunning Regina Experimental Biarritz – home for the next two nights.
Blending elegant Art Deco details with retro seaside charm, the hotel’s atrium is a showstopper and sits at the heart of the property. Encircled by the bright and spacious rooms & suites, there’s accommodation to suit everyone – all you need to decide is if you prefer a view of the ocean or the lush golf course and I’ll take care of the rest…
Only a short walk from both the beach and Biarritz town, it was the perfect base for our Atlantic interlude. We even managed an early morning swim in the sea – bracing but worth it!
Next door, Experimental Le Garage offers a more playful, boutique surf-lodge energy, complete with DJs by the pool on weekends and a rooftop bar with a house party vibe – I can confirm it’s the ideal setting for a golden hour cocktail.
Our final day included a relaxed wander through Biarritz, sampling fresh seafood and local wine at the bustling fish market before a relaxed tapas lunch nearby. In the afternoon, we set off for the Basque countryside, visiting the postcard-perfect towns of Bidart and Saint-Jean-de-Luz. In Bidart, we paused to watch locals playing Pelota, a traditional Basque ball game, right in the town square.
From the vibrant energy and elegance of Paris to the serene coastal charm of Biarritz, this itinerary offered the perfect blend of city strolls, hidden gems, and seaside beauty.
A heartfelt thank you to Sarah and the Experimental Group for your exceptional hospitality.
If a French escape has been on your mind, I’d love to hear from you and help bring it to life.
