Paris' Molitor hotel, whose pool hosted bikini's debut, back in business
Art deco gem, for 60 years the place to be seen but which then became an artists' squat, has been restored and given some modern touches, writes Rowena Carr-Allinson
A legendary site in the 16th arrondissement, everyone in Paris has heard of the Molitor, whether it's as a pool in the 1930s, where the smart set would meet for parties, galas and a dip, or as its slightly less glamorous incarnation - a run-down artists' squat in the 1990s. Inaugurated by Johnny Weissmuller, aka Tarzan, for more than 60 years it was the place to be seen in the French capital. In 1946, it dared to launch the new-fangled bikini. After its closure, in 1989, the listed building soon became home to street artists and ravers. Thankfully, last year, the Molitor was restored to its former glory and given a new lease of life as a 124-room hip hotel. Under Accor's MGallery brand, it sees itself as a space combining "pool, art and life".
Architecturally, it's a sight to behold. You can't fail to be impressed by the art deco aesthetics. The Lido pool (above) is the main attraction, but the trimmings are very welcome and include a rooftop cocktail bar (with its own herb garden and views stretching to the Eiffel Tower), a gym and a dark, moody bar where beautiful people mingle.
A gourmet treat run by Yannick Alleno where you can sample delights such as truffle risotto with poached egg, vine grilled beef with marrow and the crunchiest, tastiest coffee éclair this side of the Seine. In summer, the 30 seats by the pool are hot property, but you'll eat just as well at one of the 80 indoors (above).
What most people don't realise is that in addition to the famous outdoor 46-metre pool (which is heated to 28 degrees Celsius year round), there is a 33-metre indoor pool lined with its original cabins, each now a self-contained exhibit by a contemporary artist.
