Welcome to the second iteration of Vogue’s global spa guide, an index of the 100 best spas in the world, built from the expertise of our global editors and trusted contributors. There is a lot to choose from in the world of wellness, and no matter how far you’re planning to travel—from a subway ride to a trans-Atlantic flight—we want to make sure it’s worth the journey. Whatever your path, let us be your guide.
Why go here?
Le Spa at the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme feels like a haven in the middle of bustling Paris. Located right off the Place de l’Opéra, the hotel is walking distance from the Opera Garnier, the Louvre, the Place de la Concorde, and the Tuileries Garden, meaning you can get a massage in the morning and then move on to an afternoon at the museum with not a moment wasted. I know this sounds potentially not ideal for a relaxing spa experience, but it’s quite the opposite. I visited Le Spa after a morning of reporting at the shows for Paris Fashion Week, and an hour or so later I was on the Metro for my next appointment. What better cure for all the hours spent hunched over on those little metal benches, waiting for the shows to start.
Photo: Courtesy of Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme Spa
What’s the vibe?
The overall vibe of the space takes its cues from the hotel—it’s sophisticated and modern with stone, mahogany, and black granite, but still has that opulent Parisian feel, with gold mosaic throughout. An usher greets you as you walk down to the spa and fitness center area to point you in the direction—necessary, given that the treatment areas are hidden behind a sliding door. Le Spa does not quite feel like Paris—that’s a good thing. The enclosed area shuts down all outside noise, allowing you to fully embrace the experience.
The entire spa was designed by the late Ed Tuttle, and the treatment areas are simply beautiful. In the dimly lit spaces, quiet music plays, while a signature scent, created by master perfumier Christophe Laudamiel of Tom Ford and Ralph Lauren, wafted through the rooms. There are four treatment rooms, one of which is a double that features a large jacuzzi with a shower and a closet. Le Spa uses all La Mer products—truly major for all skin-care devotees.
Photo: Courtesy of Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme Spa
The history?
Tuttle’s signature simplicity and tranquil aesthetic are felt throughout, and most of all in the spa area. Being under the Park Hyatt luxury umbrella and the larger Hyatt chain, there are certain expectations when it comes to the level of the treatments, the location, and, most of all, the staff. What makes this particular Park Hyatt spa worth the splurge is that it doesn’t only meet the bar, but it feels individualized. Sometimes chains can feel corporatized or simply over-uniformed, but this one balances the value of the Park Hyatt reputation with the famous Parisian savoir-faire.
Photo: Courtesy of Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme Spa
What should you try?
My recommendation would be to book the appropriately named Haute Couture-Signature massage—the flagship treatment—which is, honoring its name, custom made based on your needs. I asked for a deep, full-body massage that would help me loosen up and release tension, plus a reset for my lower back and neck, which tend to suffer most during Fashion Week. The ideal time at Le Spa, I’d say, starts with a workout at the fitness center, which is one of the better hotel gyms I’ve been in, and continues at the actual spa facilities. The “right” way to go about it would be to arrive at your treatment a little early to soak in the jacuzzi or try out the sauna or steam room. Then proceed to your treatment room to rinse off—and lather up in La Mer!—to pre-relax before really disconnecting.
Photo: Courtesy of Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme Spa
How environmentally friendly is it?
Le Spa uses no disposable linen and tissue bags as opposed to plastic bags. It also works with brands that prioritize sustainable practices: The French-born and French-made ecological Kure Bazaar nail products for its manicure and pedicure services, for example.
What else do we need to know?
Le Spa offers seven additional massage options, which include Japanese Shiatsu and Thai treatments, plus relaxing or vitalizing experiences. (It’s worth noting that none of the massages are adapted to pregnant women.) There’s also an option to have an in-room spa treatment, which the very spacious bathroom area in each room certainly allows. There are also shorter options, for those only looking for a quick treat as well as a few La Mer–specific body treatments, facials, and manicures and pedicures, though I’d say that the real must would be the sensorial experiences, longer treatments that combine massages, facials, and/or scrubs.
Photo: Courtesy of Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme Spa
Who can go?
The spa facilities are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. for hotel guests. Outside clients can use the facilities if they have a massage or treatment booked between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. Day passes are also available. If you choose to bring your phone with you, it should be turned off or silent and put away—but let’s assume, for the sake of your relaxation journey, that you were doing either of those things already.
Booking details for Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme
Address: 5 Rue de la Paix, 75002 Paris, France
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