VIBE

Talk about luxury. They even manage to get the sun to shine underground (or at least they’ve got fancy-schmancy lights that make it seem that way) at this lush Versailles-inspired spa which ever-so-humbly claims to be “the most luxurious hotel spa in Paris.” Just the first tip-off that though it may be named after a British king, there’s no self-effacing English modesty here. Seriously, the signature treatment involves being pampered with pure gold, there’s an elegant pool encircled with trompe l’oeil gardens (quite an extravagance in space-cramped Paris), and the private treatment rooms are lavishly appointed in authentic Toile de Jouy.

GO HERE WITH

A group - to use the posh VIP lounge; significant other; friends; yourself

WHY WE LIKE IT

The sheer luxuriousness of it all. Even putting the 24-carat gold treatments aside (if you can), the experience is overwhelmingly pampering. The therapists know how to hit all the right spots and then some, the space is beyond opulent, and the extras (pool, relax room, snacks) are the best in the city.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

The gilded treatment rooms are a little too cluttered. (Toile de Jouy wallpaper doesn’t exactly scream “relax.”)

GOOD TO KNOW

There are special lights shining in the pool and Jacuzzi that are designed to replicate daylight (complete with sunrises and sunsets). If you forget your swimsuit for the pool, no worries–you can pick up a sharp designer number in the spa shop for a mere EUR 300. There’s a VIP treatment suite with whirlpool, sauna, and steam bath available. Privileges for hotel guests include in-room massage services and access to the pool, steam room, sauna and whirlpool.

CLOSEST COMPS

Four Seasons Hotel Spa (Los Angeles); The Berkeley (London)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to Paris