With history, comfort, luxury, service and fine dining, the Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace is "better than Paris" and provides a peaceful oasis to get away from the crowds of Versailles.
1. Location
For visiting the Palace and Gardens of Versailles, there can't be a better location. Of course getting to Versailles is not simple (especially from the Loire Valley) bit for comfort, ease, security and peace of mind, we recommend car service or taxi. The main ticket entrance is located about a 10 minute walk over cobble stoned street or you can enter via the Trianon entrance to the Versailles gardens literally right outside the entrance to the hotel. Either way, to enter the palace itself, a 10 minute walk is required. If you plan to visit just the gardens, the hotel is perfect. You should be able to walk around some gardens without an entry ticket but we didn't look at the limits of how much area you would be able to explore.
2. Check-in
We were greeted as Hilton Honor Gold Members immediately and we were provided early check in after asking for a room that was immediately available. We wouldn't have been offered this unless we asked. The agent did a wonderful job of orienting us to the hotel as well as included amenities such as complimentary cocktails, food credits and breakfast.
3. Rooms
The rooms were luxuriously decorated but at the same time seemed "sparse". We recommend more wall art. The decor looks to be several years old and we would consider some updating.
Sufficient amenities in the room are provided including:
- Nespresso maker
- Tea kettle
- Complimentary shoe shine
- Robes
- Slippers
- Bottled water (Evian still, other still and sparkling)
- Turndown service
The view from the window was upon the garden and the palace of Versailles.
4. Bathroom
The bathroom was lovely. Immediately noticeable is the mosaic floor which we quickly discovered was heated. A double sink and separate bath and walk-in shower with rain shower are present. Products are typical for the Waldorf Astoria: Salvatore Ferragamo.
5. Fitness
Two fitness rooms are available on site including movement studios and space for private sessions with trainers on site. Views of the the palace grounds (including sheep!) can be enjoyed from the fitness rooms.
There is a unisex steam room and sauna so if you plan to use them, you must have a swimsuit! The indoor pool is lovely and topped with a glass roof. An attendant is present with refreshments available throughout the spa, fitness rooms and pool. The Guerlain spa has a wonderful menu and the staff was very attentive!
6. Dining
The Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace shines with its dining options by Gordon Ramsay. Intimate and with excellent service, you may choose from the more formal Au Trianon or the bistro-inspired La Veranda with indoor or outdoor dining. There is a stylish bar venue, Bar Galerie, offering a wide choice of cocktails, wines and spirits where we enjoyed our complimentary cocktails. Afternoon tea and a selection of snacks are served throughout the day also.We chose to dine at La Veranda since we wanted a more relaxing atmosphere after our long day of travel and touring Versailles. The menu was locally-inspired with a la carte or prix fixe options. The wine complimented the offerings well and a taste was offered before selecting. The food was locally inspired such as wild boar stew, well-presented and delicious. The service was outstanding and attentive.
Breakfast, as is included if booking through Amex FHR or as a Hilton Honors Gold member, consisted of a typical European buffet (You could opt for room service under Amex FHR). Service was good but not as attentive as dinner. Offerings included an omelet station, pastries, breads, cereals, cheeses, meats and fruits just to name a few. The green apple juice was delicious. Gluten free options are available.
7. History
With over a century of history, this is a great hotel for history buffs like us!The story of Trianon Palace began on December 19, 1907, when entrepreneur Weill Martignan proposed the construction of a luxury hotel in Versailles. Three years later, this extraordinary four-star hotel officially opened its doors to the public ultimately serving the world in many ways:
• A favorite haunt for famous personalities, kings and queens
• It acted as a military base and hospital during the two world wars
• The Treaty of Versailles was drafted here in 1919
Bottom Line:
The Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace is a fabulous hotel, and if you are visiting Versailles, a great place to stay since it is right next to the Trianon entrance to the grounds. There are 2 Gordon Ramsay restaurants that are exceptional in terms of food and service - one more formal than the other. If you are a interested in 20th Century history, this location has bore witness to many incredible events.
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