Villa Maïa is the result of three celebrated French designers: architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte; Louis Benech, the landscape designer behind the restored Tuileries Garden, and the interior decorator responsible for the homes of Princess Caroline of Monaco and Yves Saint Laurent among many others, the much-lauded Jacques Grange. The embodiment of le bon goût, this sophisticated hotel is on Fourvière Hill, a 10-minute uphill walk from the funicular at the top which links Fourvière with Lyon’s Old Town, or a 15-minute walk downhill to the UNESCO-listed Old Town itself.
The views of both Lyon and the Alps are sublime and can be enjoyed from the gardens, rooftop restaurant, spa, and most of the 37 rooms. Inside, playful modern art is showcased against a backdrop of cool creams, taupe and oatmeal neutrals. Walls are lined in Japanese straw, while Carrara marble, smoky glass, crushed velvet banquettes and clever lighting add to the luxe and contemporary vibe. The concierge welcomes guests into a lounge with a striking totem-pole installation and the discreetly unobtrusive staff are on hand to ensure guests get the most from any stay.
Along with breakfast, all rooms and suites boast silk fibre duvets, marble bathrooms with underfloor heating, remote control Japanese WC, Wi-Fi, and HD TV with complimentary films on request. Each room also enjoys a private terrace with a garden or city view and a complimentary minibar on your arrival day (excludes alcoholic drinks). The suites include a spacious living area, and all enjoy fabulous city views from a private terrace. There is also a large and stylish penthouse apartment with a separate bedroom, large living and dining room, and terrace with spectacular city views.
Lyon is known as the world’s capital of gastronomy, and Michelin-starred chef, Christian Têtedoie oversees the hotel’s Têtedoie trio of restaurants. The main Têtedoie Restaurant specialises in French fine dining and offers an excellent tasting menu. Le Bistrot Têtedoie has more of a relaxed bistro menu, including risottos and pizza, while the seasonal Le Rooftop Têtedoie serves summer delights including creamy burrata and heirloom tomatoes, grilled Spanish pluma bellota, fresh sorbets and strawberry tart. For a selection of drinks and craft cocktails, head to the chic contemporary bar or enjoy the cosy charm of the library which overlooks the gardens.
For a spot of serenity head to the spa and the beautiful 20m indoor pool with Roman-style arched windows overlooking the courtyard. There is also a whirlpool tub and stylish loungers set on the black and white marble chequerboard tiles, reproduced from an ancient mosaic found during archaeological excavations which were carried out before the hotel was built. Guests also have access to the sauna, hammam and fitness room. Beauty treatments and massages can also be booked for further pampering and relaxation.
