Provence West

Le Nesle

Located on the western end of the famous Latin Quarter, within a short walk to the Seine river in our favorite part of the sixth arrondissement, the rue de Nesle was built in 1106 on the site of the Hôtel de Nesle and the ancient Tour de Nesle, made famous by Alexandre Dumas, where, legend has it, King Louis X's wife, Marguerite (no relation to Provence West's owner!) and her sisters tossed their discarded lovers into the Seine.

The owners of Le Nesle are true visionaries; when they purchased this apartment, and when we first toured it, it was a disaster, but with great "potential." After literally gutting the interior, they have created an incredible space which honors the architectural traditions which earned the building its prestigious historic designation while providing guests with every modern convenience, comfort and amenity. The interior is a tasteful blend of ancient, "retro" and thoroughly modern, with decorative accents from the 1940s and 50s contrasting with ancient ceiling beams and state of the art, 21st century components. Much of the furniture was custom-built for the apartment, while other pieces were carefully selected and lovingly transported from design centers and antique shops in such far-flung locales as Brussels and Cape Town, as well as from the quintessentially French flea markets and brocante sellers in Paris and the provinces.

The living area, with its seating alcove (which includes a sleeper-sofa to accommodate one or two additional guests), dining area and kitchen flow together to create a spacious "great room" on the main level of the apartment. The kitchen is fitted with modern appliances, including an oven, range, microwave, dishwasher and a full compliement of gourmet small appliances, including food processor and espresso maker, as well as sleek cabinetry and wood countertops. It is a cook's dream, and by design; we often host travelers in Paris to attend one of the city's many celebrated cooking schools, and Le Nesle has also hosted several famous North American chefs during their stay in Paris. Adjacent to the kitchen lies a separate laundry closet, with a washing machine and separate dryer.

In the living area, guests will relax in the comfortable seating area, opposite a flat-screen television with satellite channels, DVD player and Bose music system, as well as high-speed, wireless internet access. The dining area, adjacent to the kitchen and living room, simply inspires entertaining. Central heating and air conditioning ensure that this beautiful apartment is comfortable no matter the weather or season.

A few steps up from the main level, and with a separate, private entrance, lies a spacious bedroom with ensuite bath and office alcove. The bedroom is fitted with two high-quality twin beds (which can be combined to create a king bed for a couple or left separate) and contemporary furnishings. The ensuite bathroom has a striking tiled stall shower and above-counter glass washbasin. An independent toilet room is conveniently located adjacent to the mid-level bedroom and the main level living areas.

On the top level of the apartment, a spacious mezzanine houses the airy master bedroom with ensuite bathroom. A queen bed, and modern wood furniture, continue the contemporary "feel" of the apartment, while skylights let in the bright Parisian sunlight and cooling breezes. The tiled bathroom features a bathtub with wall-mounted shower unit, an above-counter glass washbasin, and toilet.

With approximately 750 square feet of area, the apartment accommodates up to six guests, although we think it is best suited for four or five.

The views from Le Nesle are true Paris, with vistas over the red-tiled rooftops towards the Seine. Since its debut in the Provence West portfolio in late 2005, Le Nesle has already become a top choice for discriminating guests seeking a beautifully appointed apartment in an historic and yet centrally located and very sought-after Paris neighborhood. The rue de Nesle is buzzing with book wholesalers activities during the day. In the evening, however, it quiets down, unless you are looking for action : stroll down to the river or up onto the bustling boulevard St. Germain towards Odéon. In between, you'll find one of Paris' most charming market streets, the rue de Buci, and the rue de Seine, lined with wonderful antique shops and art galleries. Not to mention other Paris cultural monuments such as the Académie Française, the Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots, the Monnaie de Paris, the Pont des Arts, etc. all of which are within short walking distance.

The apartment is within a short walk from some of the most famous Parisian landmarks on the Left Bank, including the café Deux Magots and café de Flore, the Brasserie Lipp, the Buci market, the Place St. Sulpice, the Pantheon, the Sorbonne University, the river Seine, Notre Dame, the Louvre, the Isle St. Louis and the Isle de la Cité. The Luxembourg Gardens, a wonderful spot for a relaxing stroll, are just one block away. Nearby metro stations and bus routes make access to all of Paris quick and convenient.

AS WITH MOST OF OUR PROPERTIES, NO SMOKING IS ALLOWED INSIDE THIS APARTMENT, AND PETS ARE NOT PERMITTED.

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Amenities

• Air Conditioning
• American Shower
• Ancient Construction
• City Setting
• Dryer

• Highspeed internet
• Music System
• Satellite TV
• Views
• Washer