RICH in history and saturated with arts, Hotel Molitor in Paris has a very distinct personality. First opened 90 years ago as a public swimming pool, this location has transformed over the decades to become one of the most sought-after hotels in the city. Glass visited Molitor to find out more about the hotel’s vivid history and enjoy one of the best rooftop terraces in Paris.
The outdoor pool of the Molitor
For any Parisian, Molitor is a well known location. In 1929, the iconic Art Deco swimming pool opened its doors to the public, becoming not only a venue frequented by professional sportsmen but also an important communal space for Paris’s 16me arrondissement. In 1946, Molitor marks itself in history by hosting a presentation of the very first Bikini, designed by Louis Réard, and while walking through the corridors, you will be able to discover images from the multiple events that took place in this remarkable chapter of hotel’s history. After all, the Piscine Molitor is what gave inspiration to the main character of Yann Martel’s novel, The Life of Pi.
The Molitor in 1950s
The glory of Molitor’s early days lasted until the 1990s. The maintenance of facilities became a troublesome task for the city municipality – the skating ring, which used to be set up in the outdoors pool every winter, was ceased in 1970, and the swimming pool itself was closed in 1989. However, the story of Molitor didn’t end there. For the decades that followed, this iconic location became a vivid hub for street art in Paris. The abandoned swimming pool was transformed into a playground for some of the most renowned graffiti artists, who would gather from around the world to create artworks on the walls of Molitor. Eventually, the unique story of the location allowed it to become what we know today as Hotel Molitor, which opened its doors in 2014 as a part of McGallery by Sofitel.
The Molitor in 1990s
Like no other place, Molitor takes proud in its history, embracing its close ties with the community and the world of arts. One cannot help but notice the multiple graffiti that cover the walls of the hotel. During the restauration process, Molitor invited street artists that used to frequent the location in the 90s to create unique artworks for the hotel. Black le Rat, Oscar, Monsier Chat are some of the world-renowned names that are featured on the walls of the hotel. The indoors winter pool is the most fascinating place, where each one of the old-school beach cabins features an different painting, sculpture, or collage – the artistic director of the hotel even hosts daily tours for those interested to learn more about the street art.
Graffiti at the Molitor
However, Molitor is much more than a historic location. The hotel is also an important wellness destination in the city – fitness options range from yoga studio to Qi Cong, and the Spa by Clarins is the Paris’s largest spa with unique treatments, such as cryotherapy or Shu Uemura, and a private suite for ultimate unwinding. The exclusive Molitor Club opens its doors by membership only to those who want to enjoy the facilities all year round.
The terrace suite of the Molitor
Dining in the hotel is also a unique experience. Apart from the Brasserie on the ground floor, designed with a refined Parisian taste, Molitor also opened its seasonal rooftop terrace this May. With a view on the tennis courts of Roland Garros, the terrace is a perfect place for a refreshing drink and a delicious meal. Glass tasted the perfectly fresh Crab Salad and a lovely selection of deserts, simply wonderful for an outing in Paris.
Dining on the Molitor Rooftop Terrace
Located 25 minutes away from the city center, Molitor is a place for travellers who want to discover a different side of Paris. During the stay, you are sure to be welcomed warmly by the staff that is truly passionate about the history and heritage of the hotel. Non-conventional and sophisticated, Molitor is the place to discover during your next time in Paris.
by Olga Kuznietsova
Classic Rooms start from £198 per person, per night on a room only basis, city tax excluded.
For further information visit the website