Complete with roof terrace and co-working space, Hôtel Pilgrim is a fresh, contemporary hotel in one of the oldest and most eclectic neighbourhoods in Paris. Nick Hendry reports
The Fifth Arrondissement in Paris is known as the Latin Quarter, traditionally home to the city’s artists, vagabonds and renegades. Long, straight avenues and boulevards screen a scrambling warren of streets and alleyways which even today are filled with noise and laughter and charming chaos.
That chaos may be a little more genteel than in days gone by, largely thanks to the skyrocketing prices of properties in the area, but the strong concentration of universities and colleges in the vicinity ensures the energy of youth remains in the bars and restaurants nearby.
Most of the buildings are in the traditional golden of the Haussmannian style, but some more modern additions stand out – one fine example, in the centre of Rue de Poissy, just off the magnificent Boulevard Saint-Germain, plays host to Hôtel Pilgrim, which opened in November 2023.
The church of Saint-Sulpice and the famous Pantheon are close by (and wonderfully visible from the terrace bar atop the hotel), as are the Insta-favourite cafés Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, for those who seek the full Emily in Paris experience, but there is so much more to this fabulous part of town besides.
Hôtel Pilgrim itself is a sleek, contemporary place which is ideal for time not spent exploring the neighbourhood. On our arrival we were greeted in the cool concrete lobby by relaxed, affable staff – young and casually-dressed, fitting the vibe of the locale – and guided to a beautiful room near the top of the building.
The bathroom boasted a sizable walk-in shower (very wide, but possibly a touch short for the taller guest – thankfully that’s not me) which was stocked with (full-size) products from Swedish brand LA Bruket – these really must be credited as being a step above usual hotel offerings.
If you’re in Paris to break free from the laptop, the spa area on the lower floors of the hotel is a great place to relax. It’s free for guests to access, though times must be booked at reception to avoid overcrowding, and provides a large pool and hammam. Massage treatments can be booked on request for an additional fee.
PRICE:
Rooms from €220
VERDICT:
The blend of local living and proximity to iconic tourist favourites make Hôtel Pilgrim a great choice for a Paris hotel. The space is perfect for both working and relaxing, and the added bonus of those rooftop views make this hotel a great choice for trips to Paris, be they for work or leisure.