Romance is the first language of Hotel Cour des Loges in Lyon, France. The Maisons & Hotels Sibuet team is made up of a family of entrepreneurs whose vision reflects a “mixture of history and modernity.” The five-star property is an homage to the Italian Renaissance, thus maintains the integrity of its past, yet spoils guests with upscale amenities.
Vintage headboard
Romantic Rooms
The sixty guest rooms are situated around an internal courtyard. Keeping with the theme, many of the room designs are reminiscent of opera theater boxes. Likewise, guest accommodations are designed with rich fabric, period pieces of furniture and original masterpieces.
Romantic bathroom fit for a King or Queen
The authenticity of design evokes an esprit de corps of the romantic period, however it manages to avoid feeling cliché. Each room is well-appointed. Guests enjoy comfy, unique designs and layouts. Originality ensures no cookie cutter décor here.
Ancient ruins of Old Lyon
Historical Context
I took a self-guided tour of Vieux-Lyon (old town) to understand the timelessness of Hotel Cour des Loges. Every step is a delight despite the steep vertical inclines to reach the summit of Fouvier. From this vantage point it is easy to see how ancient Roman architecture influences the landscape. Theater ruins and narrow cobblestone streets set the tone for a wonderful walk through history.
Salmon with fresh seasonal veggies
Lyon’s Foodie Nature
Lyon is the foodie capital of France. Naturally epicurean delights are an integral part of the experience at Cour des Loges. Cooking classes, private dinners and wine tastings are three ways to enjoy the cuisine. Classic entrée dishes at restaurant Les Loges are comprised of in-season, local fresh ingredients plated beautifully.
Original circular staircases inside the hotel
The romantic indoor courtyard has original Florentine stone under ageless archways. A 55-foot glass dome ceiling hangs overhead. It twinkles with illuminated stars on cloudless nights.
The Café-Epicerie is a delightful bistro. I adore the casual atmosphere and cozy feeling. I appreciate the authentically French good home-cooking.
Le Bar, a combination of old and new world decor
Le Bar
The bar area is both modern and timeless. In addition, there are two other salons that provide a distinctly intimate and old-world ambiance. Cigar connoisseurs enjoy selecting fine stogies from the humidor and puffing away settled into the soft, worn leather sitting chairs.
Spa Time
In contrast to the rest of the property, the Pure Altitude spa is all about sophisticated modernity and natural peace. Clean lines and loads of light fill the spaces. The design incorporates their signature elements of wood, fire, stone, plants and water. Calming treatments are just my style so the spa fits the bill. However, for the more sporty folks, there is a splendid workout room with multiple torture machines.
Vertical vines off the back terrace of the hotel
Of Note
The hanging gardens patio area above the spa is cut into the steep hilltop behind the hotel. An oasis in the medieval city, the green space is filled with glorious fragrances of blooming flowers and a hint of sweet smelling honey. The bee hives above provide fresh nectar that is an important ingredient used in dishes by the chef.
Location
Cour des Loges: 6, rue du Boeuf 69005 Lyon, France
Although I was a guest of the hotel my opinions are, as always, my own.