A Serendipitous Sojourn: 24 Hours of Art and Elegance in Paris
From the Modern Marvel of Fondation Louis Vuitton to the Timeless Charm of Le Pavillon de La Reine, Discovering the Unexpected Beauty of the City of Light
SEP 02, 2024
On a sweltering summer day, I found myself on an unexpected journey to Paris—a spontaneous family rendezvous that demanded the earliest train from London. As the train approached the City of Light, the dazzling sun shimmered over Paris, hinting at an adventure-filled day. With just 24 hours at my disposal, I was determined to make the most of this impromptu visit, diving headfirst into Paris's art and culture.
My day began at the Fondation Louis Vuitton, a testament to modern architectural brilliance in the Bois de Boulogne. Frank Gehry designed the building as a work of art, a structure of glass sails that seem to float amidst the greenery. As I stepped inside, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant energy of the exhibitions. The bold, geometric forms of Ellsworth Kelly greeted me, their pulsating colours resonating with the excitement of discovery. Wandering through the galleries, I lost myself in the immersive experience of Henri Matisse's "The Red Studio." This masterpiece draws you into the artist's world, where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur, offering a glimpse into the intimate chaos of creative genius.
Fondation Louis Vuitton
After a morning spent in the company of such extraordinary art, I retreated to Le Frank, the elegant restaurant within the Fondation helmed by the illustrious chef Jean-Louis Nomicos. Le Frank's ambience is a harmonious extension of the Fondation's artistic spirit, with its sleek design and serene atmosphere providing the perfect backdrop for a culinary experience like no other. I opted for their pescatarian bento box, which promised a medley of flavours as artful as the surroundings.
The meal began with a saffron fish soup, reminiscent of a classic bouillabaisse. While its flavours were rich and deeply satisfying, the warmth of the dish seemed a bit much for such a hot day. The seaweed salad that followed was a refreshing contrast, with its crunchy texture and cool, fresh taste instantly lowering my body temperature—a small, delicious relief from the heat. Next came the salmon tartare, a delightful blend of lemony zest and sesame that danced on my palate, light and invigorating. The prawn tempura, golden and crispy, was the kind of indulgence that one can't easily resist, though the heat made it a challenge. Still, the accompanying Yuzu dipping sauce was so exceptional that I savoured it with a spoon, each tangy, citrusy bite cutting through the heaviness and leaving me craving more.
Lunch at Le Frank by Jean Louis Nomicos. I ordered the Pescaterian Bento Box
As the afternoon sun began to dip, casting long shadows across the Parisian streets, my plans took an unexpected turn. My return train was cancelled, leaving me with the delightful predicament of needing to stay the night in Paris. Seizing this lucky opportunity, I found myself in a dilemma. Should I stay at a familiar place or finally experience a hotel I had long admired—Le Pavillon de La Reine at Place des Vosges, in the heart of the Marais? After a brief internal debate, I decided to go for the latter, ready to embrace the unexpected.
Le Pavillon de La Reine, Place des Voges, Paris
Le Pavillon de La Reine retreats into a different era, where history and luxury intertwine seamlessly. The hotel's ivy-clad façade, a 17th-century marvel, blends perfectly with the charm of Place des Vosges, often hailed as one of the most beautiful squares in the world. As I walked through the private garden courtyard, illuminated by soft lights, I felt like I had entered a fairy tale. Masterfully designed by Didier Benderli, the interiors mix Old World elegance and modern comfort. My room, adorned with richly patterned wallpaper and vibrant throws, was a sanctuary of calm—a perfect blend of historical charm and contemporary style.
Though my stay was brief, the atmosphere of Le Pavillon de La Reine left a lasting impression. I reluctantly skipped the renowned breakfast the following day, eager to catch the first train back to London. But as I departed, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this unexpected detour. My 24-hour adventure in Paris had been a celebration of art, culture, and the joy of embracing the unexpected—a day where every moment was steeped in the unmistakable charm and beauty of this timeless city.