Le Grand Hotel was built by financiers Isaac & Émile Pereire, contemporary rivals of the Rothchilds in the mid-19th century. They also financed the nearby Grand Hôtel du Louvre using their go to architect Alfred Armand. Construction progressed quickly, beginning in April 1861 with an inaugural presided over by the wife of Napoleon III, Empress Eugenie on May 5, 1862. The official opening for guests took place on June 30, 1862.
The Le Grand was part of the massive urban renewal reconstruction of Paris initiated by Napoleon III planned and supervised by Georges-Eugène Haussmann. The urban renewal of Paris became known as Haussmann’s renovation of Paris. Although forced to resigned by his critics who saw his vision of Paris steeped in wastes and extravagance, his vision of central Paris with grand buildings, wide boulevards, public parks dominate the core of Paris today.
The Le Grand Hotel is an example of the vision of luxury that Haussmann had for Paris. Taking up an entire block, the Le Grand Hotel opened with 800 guest rooms on four floors, with another floor dedicated solely to the servants of its guests.
Its opulence, luxury and prime location made it a favorite among royalty, famed writers, artists and performers throughout its history. Beginning with its seizure by creditors of Isaac & Émile Pereire in 1878, Le Grand has changed ownership a few times in its illustrious history. Eventually it became a jewel in the portfolio of luxury hotels for the InterContinental Hotel chain.
After a detailed renovation and restoration, it had a grand re-opening as the InterContinental Paris Le Grand Hotel in 2003. Although sold again in 2014, it is still managed by InterContinential which provides its signature luxury amenities to guests.
The InterContinental Paris Le Grand Hotel is ideally located only 20 minutes from the Louvre while facing the Palais Garnier opera house. It is located at what is considered by many to be the most iconic intersection in Paris. It is within walking distance to galleries, shops, public transit, at the heart of the historic district of Paris.
The opulence of InterContinental Paris Le Grand Hotel is highlighted by a public space with a glass enclosed roof, spectacular detailed craftsmanship, luxurious French furnishings that was once occupied by a courtyard where horses and carriages were parked by the wealthy guests of the hotel. The public spaces, restaurants and rooms of this exquisitely redesigned and decorated mid-19th century hotel offers modern conveniences that are surrounded by the artistic craftsmanship that distinguish Parisian luxury.
The InterContinental Paris Le Grand Hotel features 470 rooms with chandeliers, ornate molding, mahogany tables, velvet armchairs along with chaise lounges, comforting double beds finished with monogrammed pillows, as well as intricately patterned bedspreads. All rooms feature a view of either Palais Garnier, Place de l’Opera or the Eiffel Tower. The artfully crafted marble bathrooms feature a tub, robes, slippers along with Anne Semonin toiletries. Room choices include classic rooms, executive rooms as well as suites.
Rosalie works at the front desk
The staff of the InterContinental Paris Le Grand Hotel attends to every need of their guests in a style that one would expect at a world class hotel. Services include, room service, shoe shining, private limo service, a doctor, a 24-hour business center as well as spa services.
At the luxurious Club InterContinental guests can enjoy an exclusive haven to relax. The lounge offers breakfast, lunch, Tea Time and a light dinner.
The I-Spa by Algotherm at the InterContinental Paris Le Grand Hotel specializes in using deep sea-water products. It offers massages, facials along with beauty treatments. Guests have access to a steam room, and a fitness suite.
The InterContinental Paris Le Grand Hotel also features event facilities that includes two grand ballrooms as well as a conference center that features 13 rooms equipped with high tech amenities for business meetings. All event space is ornately decorated, furnished and offers natural lighting.
Dining at the InterContinental Paris Le Grand Hotel includes the historic Café de la Paix, a favorite of such luminaries as Victor Hugo and Oscar Wilde. This opulent dining room features an extensive menu of French delights including the culinary highlight, the Magret de canard' duck dish.
Food and drink are also served in the La Verrière winter garden or in a classically styled American bar that features a worldwide selection of cocktails.
Guests can begin the day with a breakfast buffet that is served in Café de la Paix which also highlights a classic Chinese dim sum.
The InterContinental Paris Le Grand Hotel is at 2 Rue Scribe : Paris ,75009, France. The Chief Concierge, Mr. Phillip Lesigne along with his staff is ready to welcome you to a distinctly Parisian experience at this historic world-renowned hotel.
Story by Daniel Dachille
Video voice over by Jim Reynolds