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THE ZENITH OF STYLE: PARIS IN THE 18TH CENTURY
Paris
WHEN TO GO
APRIL TO JUNE
IDEAL LENGTH
4 NIGHTS
PASSIONS
DESIGN, INTERIORS, HISTORY
PARISIAN ALLURE IN THE AGE OF ENLIGHTENMENT
18th-century Paris was the epicentre of European style. “Paris is the world,” said Marivaux in 1734, “the rest of the earth is nothing but its suburbs”. Palaces expanded, the nobility established stately townhouses, or hôtel particuliers, in the newly fashionable Faubourg Saint-Honoré, and the city’s tireless artisans cemented Paris’ reputation as the capital of craft.
For travellers with a passion for design, art, interiors or history, this journey unlocks the city’s finest buildings, galleries and ateliers, revealing the artistic legacy of pre-Revolution Paris. See the city’s Baroque, Rocaille and Neoclassical masterpieces through expert eyes – and meet the people meticulously restoring them.
THE JOURNEY
Price from £6,915 per person for three nights, based on two people sharing.
INCLUSIONS
Private evening visit to the Private Apartments at the Château de Versailles with expert French historian and writer, Evelyne Lever
Private morning visit to the Domaine de Trianon at the Château de Versailles
Guided visit of the Hôtel de la Marine and of the Hôtel de Soubise
Guided visit of a wood-panelling atelier
Entry ticket to the Cité de la Céramique, including private visits to three ateliers with artists
Two nights' accommodation at Hôtel Le Lutetia in Paris
One night's accommodation at Hôtel Le Grand Controle on the grounds of the Château de Versailles
Transfers from/to Paris airport
Transportation throughout
WHEN TO TRAVEL
The best time to travel is April to June
EXCLUSIONS
Flights to/from Paris
All food and beverage unless specified
ENHANCE YOUR EXPERIENCE
Explore the historic Château de Breteuil on a private visit led by the current Marquis de Breteuil.
Spend time with an expert in wood-panelling restoration and cabinet making during a privileged visit to the Cabinet du Roi (Salon Louis XV) at the Bibliothèque Nationale.
Uncover the rich archives of the Palais Galliera, and explore how the exuberance of the age was expressed via aristocratic wardrobes.
Speak to a Travel Designer about exclusive experiences that can be added to your journey.
THE ART OF INTERIOR DESIGN
Go beyond doors typically closed to the public for an immersive look at opulent interiors, including the Galerie Dorée at Hôtel De Toulouse and the Salon Ovale de la Princesse at Hôtel de Soubise. Explore the recently restored state apartments at Hôtel de la Marine, former home to the Garde-Meuble, which was responsible for storing and repairing objects in the royal palaces. What feats were required to reassemble the famed hôtel particulier Chancellerie d'Orléans, piece-by-piece, at the former Hôtel de Rohan? Local art historians explain.
ARTISANS BACKED BY ARISTOCRACY
Gain insights into 18th-century craftsmanship at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs and the Louvre. Spend time with an expert in wood-panelling restoration and cabinetmaking during a privileged visit to the Cabinet du Roi (Salon Louis XV) at the Bibliotheque Nationale.
How was the exuberance of the age expressed via aristocratic wardrobes? Uncover the rich archives of the Palais Galliera and let the clothes tell the story.
ROYAL TREASURES
Once inside the gates of Château de Versailles, discover the rustic gardens of The Petit Trianon, former retreat of Marie Antoinette. Led by acclaimed historian and author, Evelyne Lever, enjoy a special after hours visit of the recently restored Queen's Apartments, followed by a lavish overnight stay with views of The Orangery. Then, venture further south to the Chevreuse Valley to Château de Breteuil, joined by the current Marquis de Breteuil, who’ll explore the historic castle with you himself.
START PERSONALISING YOUR EXPERIENCE
We believe in the power of travel to nurture personal growth. Our goal is to explore and build upon the interests of our guests, while igniting newfound passions along the way.
From discovering the life of a classical composer with an acclaimed concert pianist, to unearthing treasures in Cairo with an archaeologist, our travel designers will create a personalised one-off journey, shaped by you.