On June 1st 2021, Airelles opened the doors to its much-anticipated seventh property, Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle. Tipped to be one of the most sought-after addresses in the world, Le Grand Contrôle is the first hotel ever to open within the grounds of the Château de Versailles.

Remarking on the landmark opening for the brand, Airelles’ CEO Guillaume Fonquernie comments, “We’re thrilled to be finally opening the doors to Le Grand Contrôle, a project which started out as an ambitious vision in 2016 is now ready to be shared with our much-loved guests. I’m extremely proud of the team involved in bringing this dream to life and the level of detail and dedication that has gone into this very special property.”

Le Grand Contrôle is housed within a beautiful building constructed by Louis XIV’s favourite architect, Jules Hardouin-Mansart in 1681. Now two centuries on, the property has been meticulously restored by architect and interior designer, Christophe Tollemer. Tollemer has drawn direct inspiration for the project from the neighbouring Petit Trianon Palace and Louis XVI’s personal style, focusing on 1788 as a benchmark, the year in which Marie Antoinette redecorated Petit Trianon.

The Hotel contains 14 regal rooms and suites, including its jewel, the 120m2 Signature Suite. The rooms have breathtaking views over the Orangerie, the Pièce d’Eau des Suisses as well as the Château itself. Whilst in-house guests can take an exclusive peek into the enchanting world of Versailles by exploring the 2,000-acre gardens and palace halls and apartments, once walked by Europe’s elite over the centuries, as well as part take in some of the exclusive and immersive experiences especially designed by the Airelles group for their guests.

There are also boats and golf carts on hand to explore the Grand Canal and gardens at leisure. Guests also have the option to select from some of the incredible paid-for experiences the hotel offers including after-hours access to the Hall of Mirrors, a Marie Antoinette-themed day including a costume fitting, a private performance at the Royal Opera, and a private dining experience with a string quartet in the former apartment of Louis XV’s daughters.

A stay at this most regal hotel would not be complete with a dining experience to match. This comes in the form an aristocratic culinary offering by none other than internationally acclaimed chef, Alain Ducasse. With 20 Michelin stars to his name, Ducasse takes guests on a journey through time experiencing the gastronomic delights from both the past and the present via a tantalising menu inspired by the flamboyant nature of Louis XIV’s meals.
After exploring the wonders of Versailles all day guest can relax and unwind at the in-house Spa by Valmont, which in truly royal fashion features a 15-metre indoor swimming pool, Hamman, sauna and a restorative programme of spa treatments that have been especially developed for Le Grand Contrôle by the skincare brand, including the signature 90-minute Majestic Mirror facial.

If exclusivity is paramount during your stay, Le Grand Contrôle also provides the most glamourous of backdrops for private events including intimate weddings, private dinners and exclusive launches, for up to 54 guests. For the ultimate wow factor, there is also the option of hosting an event inside the Palace itself followed by an exclusive overnight takeover, accommodating up to 36 guests across the 14 rooms and suites.

So immerse yourself this Summer in all the history and decadence Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle has to offer, which was once only bestowed on the most elite of European society.

For bookings: rates at Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle start from: €1,700 including a dedicated butler; daily tours of Château de Versailles and the Trianon; access to the Palace grounds – including use of boats and golf carts and breakfast, afternoon tea and minibar.

by Victoria Balnaves