Pinch of Chic
collaborations Avignon, France

La Divine Comédie

creative direction & photography CYNTHIA NGUYEN in collaboration with LA DIVINE COMÉDIE

OVERVIEW

La Divine Comédie is a stunning, historic Provence mansion located in the heart of old Avignon— a quaint city in the south of France known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The guesthouse has become a favourite among travellers seeking a unique, intimate, and art retreat-like experience, while being just a short walk from the historic city centre, making it an ideal base for exploring the city’s many attractions.

The charming mansion is steeped in history, stretching back to the 14th century, when the grounds hosted guests from the Pope’s entourage and in the 18th century, it was originally built as a convent. Today, La Divine Comédie is an assemblage of styles and periods, spanning baroque, Provençal, Italian, Grand Siècle, and even Arabic inspirations from the 1700s to the present day. The building has undergone a number of transformations throughout its lifetime, including being used as a school and then later as a residence for the clergy. In the recent years, the guesthouse was carefully restored and renovated (doors opened June 2017), preserving it’s historical interior while offering modern amenities and lots of comfort— a perfect blend of old-world charm with modern luxury.

La Divine Comédie is a magnificent three-story property with the largest private garden with a swimming pool in Avignon, making it easy for one to escape into a true oasis, surrounded by lush foliage, fountains, and plenty of cozy nooks for you to relax and unwind. The property has always been known for its breathtaking gardens, which provide a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of Avignon’s busy streets. The property’s entrance is discreet (protected behind a large gate), offering guests a sense of privacy and seclusion from the bustling streets outside. The ground floor houses the reception area, salon, and dining room, while the upper floors contain the property’s guest rooms and suites. The boutique guesthouse, La Divine Comédie, is a true masterpiece of design and architecture, boasting an elegant façade and stunning interiors. It features five luxurious and individually designed guest rooms, known as chambres d’hôtel, each with its own distinct character and standout charm. The rooms offer a beautiful blend of classic and contemporary styles, with opulent furnishings, ornate fixtures, and impressive artwork.

ROOMS

Each room is inspired by a different literary work, and features quality furnishings, elegant decor, and modern amenities. Guests will be able to immerse themselves and experience the space that takes form as their own distinct character. For those that greatly appreciate history, the arts and French Provençal design style, this property is a must stay. From the elegant furnishings to the thoughtful details, guests are sure to be impressed by the luxurious accommodations at this stunning boutique property.

Featured room is their Consul Suite, located on the second floor of the property.

The Consul Suite: This stunning suite offers breathtaking views of the Pope’s palace and the city of Avignon, and is decorated in the style of the Napoleonic period when the fashion was for all things exotic. The suite features a beautiful collection of lithographs of the Bosphorus in the antechamber, as well as a superb collection of antique trunks. The typical furniture, notably the armchairs – replicas of the throne of Tutankhamun – is set off by a palette of warm cumin, black and brown tones, giving the room a rich, luxurious feel. The orientalist spirit can also be seen in a series of engravings representing Napoleon’s first trip to Egypt, reflecting the fashion for exotic travel. Overall, the Consul Suite is a truly unique and memorable accommodation that combines luxurious amenities with a fascinating historical aesthetic.

HIGHLIGHTS

In addition to its breathtaking beauty and rich history, La Divine Comédie offers a range of other attractive features and amenities. Guests can enjoy the guesthouse’s lush gardens and lounge around in their tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Guests can indulge in a range of treatments at the property’s spa, or relax in the stylish lounge with a cocktail or glass of wine. The property also has a lovely outdoor swimming pool, perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot summer’s day in France. 

Beyond the stunning interior, La Divine Comédie also holds an impressive curated collection of art that spans a wide range of styles and periods. From contemporary pieces to classic works, the property’s art collection is a testament to the owners’ dedication to creating not only an exquisite personal collection, but a truly unique and enriching guest visual experience— especially seen throughout their spiralling staircase.

GOOD TO KNOW

  • Don’t miss a visit to the Palais des Papes, the iconic Papal Palace located just a few minutes’ walk from La Divine Comedie. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a fascinating glimpse into Avignon’s rich history and is a must-see for any history buff.

  • Be sure to take a photo by the historic carousel located in the Place Pie, just a short walk from the guesthouse. This charming carousel dates back to the early 1900s and is a beloved local landmark.

  • For a truly memorable dining experience, book a table at La Mirande Hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant. The head chef, Florent Pietravalle, is renowned for his innovative, story-telling [through his cooking] and beautifully presented dishes, and the restaurant’s elegant setting is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. Our lunch menu at La Mirande was inspired by Florent’s two week trip to Japan, intertwined with haute French cooking.

  • If you’re looking to do some shopping, check out some of local boutiques in the area, such as Vox Populi, who that carry items some of La Divine Comédie’s unique artwork, including La Méduse (jellyfish lamps). You might also consider picking up a piece of jewelry from CARLINE, who carries such French designers, such as Pascale Monvoisin.

  • If you’re interested in French art and design, take some time to explore La Divine Comédie’s own collection. Featuring works by both emerging and established artists, the collection is a true reflection of the property’s eclectic aesthetic. 

LOCATION

16 Imp. Jean Pierre Gras, 84000 Avignon, France.
 
Guests can easily visit the Palais des Papes, the famous Pont d’Avignon, and other notable landmarks. Avignon is located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of France and is easily accessible by train, car, or plane. The city is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, and is a popular destination for travellers from around the world.

BOOKING

For information or booking, visit their website and Instagram

                      
 

A special thank you to Loïc and Maxence at the property for hosting me during my visit.

_ As always, all opinions are my own.

I do not review PR stays unless I had an enjoyable and genuine experience to share.

 

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collaborations Paris, France

Le Narcisse Blanc

creative direction, photography & editing
CYNTHIA NGUYEN photo assistance GAVIN MACKEN in collaboration with LE NARCISSE BLANC

OVERVIEW

Nestled in the heart of Paris on the charming and open street of Boulevard de la Tour-Maubourg in the 7th District, sits a contemporary-classic 5 star boutique hotel and spa called, Le Narcisse Blanc. It’s truly the authentic experience if you’re searching for a boutique property with a romantic Parisian flare while still remaining completely contemporary. 

Branding and interior architecture was designed by Laurent Bardet and Laurence Jean from Laurent and Laurence, while Thierry Martin and Thibaut Fron of  Compiegne-based, Exclusive Interiors by T&T, executed the interior design for the hotel property.

ROOMS

Behind the doors of Le Narcisse Blanc, they offer 37 rooms that each take on a feel of a private classic Parisian apartment, drawing inspiration from Parisian cafe society with their signature powder pink hues and gold details, with high regal panelled walls with ornate wainscoting that evoke French design, complimented with fresh florals to bring out a soft yet glamorous ambience. The rooms offered are sound proofed, with complimentary high-speed wifi, includes a flat screen TV and fully-stocked mini bar. Amongst the previously mentioned are the basic items, such as a safe, iron and ironing board, welcome products with an exclusive fragrance, complimentary water, tea and Nespresso coffee. Other requests that may not be obvious to guests are shoe shine request and alarm call upon request. Housekeeping also comes twice a day, including turndown service. They will come to your room and check if you need anything, if not— they are always prepared with loads of French chocolat to give out. As for the bathrooms, it includes rain-effect shower, hair dryer, luxury bathrobes and slippers for your feet.

Featured room above is their Superior Room.

ESSENTIALS

18h to 3h Room Service, 24h Front Desk, WIFI, Air conditioning, Valet parking, In-room childcare, Restaurant and Bar, Luggage Storage, Meeting Room, Indoor Swimming Pool, Hammam and Sauna, Spa Services, Fitness Centre, Night in a Vineyard (a wine tasting visit at the Domaine de la Soucherie Valley, which is 2h30 away from the hotel)

HIGHLIGHTS

A delicious continental buffet breakfast is served every morning (or can be requested for Room Service) at the Cléo Restaurant on the main level of the hotel, including tasty baked treats like pain au chocolat and croissants, an array of meats and fromages, fruits of the day and likely the best French-toast you’ll ever have. By no means did I mention this tip about the toast because it’s a review in collaboration with the hotel, but because it was genuinely better than anything I’ve tasted in the form of this choice of breakfast item in Toronto! Guests can enjoy the beautiful on-site restaurant Cléo, headed by Chef Zachary Gavillet from Canada, for lunch and dinner— which also includes daily newspapers for your pleasure to pick up and read.

The intimate spa, wooden sauna and incredible indoor counter-current pool that also has a waterfall and a jacuzzi can be found in the lowest level, where you can enjoy a nice swim after a long day of being a flâneur. The spa offers a mix of facials and body treatments, such as deep-tissue Swiss massages. For warmer days, you can pop outside their courtyard patio to enjoy a drink or two.

From a personal highlight, upon my arrival at the hotel, I was delivered a decadent looking hazelnut mouse dessert to my room that tasted amazing as it looked by their wonderful staff as a sweet welcome greeting.

GOOD TO KNOW

The hotel property sits on the street of Boulevard de la Tour-Maubourg, which intersects Rue Saint-Dominique where you can catch a beautiful and non-typical/touristy street view of the Eiffel Tower. Tons of brasseries and cafes nearby that are less than 500m away. Invalides and Tour-Maubourg Metro Stations are a 5-minute walk from the property. For history lovers (and Picasso lovers too, there is currently a featured exhibition on the top level dedicated to his early and most popular works), Musée de L’Armée is a 8-minute walk. For romantic artwork (specifically sculptures by Auguste Rodin) Musée Rodin is a 12-minute walk. To enjoy a boat cruise along the river Seine, the port is a 16-minute walk. For Eiffel Tower, it is a 15-minute walk from Le Narcisse Blanc & Spa. 

LOCATION

19 Boulevard de la Tour-Maubourg, 75007 Paris, France

RATES

Classic Room starting at €294 / Superior Room starting at €338 / Deluxe Room starting at €390 / Executive Room starting at €434 / Classic Suite starting at €699 / Aurore Suites starting at €772 / Cleo Suites starting at €736 / Suite Toits de Paris starting at €736

BOOKING

For information or booking, visit their website and Instagram

A special thank you to the entire staff and property for hosting my wonderful stay during my time in Paris.

Although it was only for two days, it definitely felt as though I started my 48 hours in Paris as a first-time visitor properly— not too touristy, no big chain hotels. But instead, began my experience by staying at one of the upmost charming, Parisian boutique properties, filled with simple luxuries.

As always, all opinions are my own.


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