Le Grand Contrôle Spring 2020

Airelles finds a home in the Château de Versailles.

Built in 1681 by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, the architect of King Louis XIV, Le Grand Contrôle is imbued with French history, and found right in the heart of the Château de Versailles. From spring 2020, Airelles will have the privilege of taking control of this historic building and creating an entirely new experience – one that has never previously been seen in Versailles.

With behind-the-scenes access to the Domaine de Versailles, visitors can explore the palace and the Petit Trianon on a private guided tour. They can also wander freely around the French gardens, as Le Grand Contrôle will have direct access to the Orangery and the Lake of the Swiss Guard. Guests will also have the opportunity to take a boat down the canal and  immerse themselves in the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles. 

Dive into the heart of French history as you rest your head in the bedroom of Madame de Staël or Jacques Necker, or peruse the restored library. Explore Le Grand Contrôle's Petit Musée and take a glance at Madame de Staël'smarriage contract, signed by King Louis XVI, Queen Marie-Antoinette and the royal family. Admire the parterre of the Orangerie or the Pièce d’Eau des Suisses from your window. Create memories that will last a lifetime as you explore the deserted attics of the Château de Versailles, or take a boat ride along the Grand Canal with a glass of champagne in hand...

Featuring 14 rooms and apartments, a signature Alain Ducasse restaurant, wellness centre, and indoor swimming pool, Le Grand Contrôle invites you to delve into an unprecedented and privileged experience as you admire the authentic decor that has been restored with the greatest respect for the original spirit of the building. The soul of bygone illustrious characters ensures an atmosphere of extraordinary emotion to this very day. This will allow guests to immerse themselves in the history of the era, all while enjoying the comforts of modern life.

In the extraordinary setting of the Grand Contrôle, which recreates the splendour of France’s royal past, chef Alain Ducasse invites guests to enjoy a moment filled with gourmet delights.

At the restaurant, haute-French cuisine takes inspiration from recipes of the past, which are interpreted with creativity and modern flair.

From the small, thoughtful details that accompany each course to the beautiful table settings, everything comes together to create a seamless, unique experience, made dazzling by the spectacular view of the gardens and the Orangery.

In the evening, the atmosphere is warm and intimate. Staff have been trained in the art and ceremony of eighteenth-century dining and the entire meal will allow guests a glimpse into the pomp and ceremony of the Napoleonic era.

The wellness area of the Grand Contrôle has been entrusted to Valmont, a French beauty brand that has been a respected part of the art and beauty worlds since 1985. Guests can choose between a number of relaxing treatments in this sensual spa, or make use of the 15-metre indoor pool and all the latest equipment on offer. Valmont is an embodiment of French luxury – and along with Airelles, they have created a spa worthy of the kings and queens of the past.