The Hotel
Le Saint James is a luxurious hotel located on the outskirts of Bordeaux in the tiny commune of Bouliac which looks down on the rolling vineyards, out over the city of Bordeaux. Apparently nicknamed the “balcony of Bordeaux” because the hotels stunning panoramic views, Le Saint James is an experience like no other. Shortly after World War II, Bouliac became a popular destination for tourists and in 1989, Le Saint James was born through a conversion from an eighteenth-century farmhouse – to a luxury hotel and restaurant as it is today. Inside it’s a very lavish and very classy affair. As you walk through the grounds and into reception you’re greeted by an incredibly welcoming army of staff and one of the most beautiful tiled floors I’ve ever come across. I take note of almost everything when visiting a hotel and even the smell I can still recall, a clean, slightly floral aroma made its way through the corridors, with a whiff of food from the kitchens and smoky tones from a roaring fire in the lounge. It’s very modern here, but it doesn’t feel staged. Everything has a home. Art is also dotted around the communal areas of the hotel which can quite easily occupy an afternoon of your time.
The Grounds/What To Do
As for the grounds, well words quite literally escape me. From the front of the hotel it doesn’t give much away, but from the rear we had the whole of Bordeaux at our feet. If you fancy a break from the hills then head straight into Bordeaux city centre and explore all this city has to offer. It’s changed immensely over the last few years. Wine of course is a big focus, Bordeaux grows and produces some of the worlds best wines, commanding eye watering prices, yet still very accessible for every day drinkers – just ask the hotel to arrange a locely winery tour for you. If an out-of-town experience is what you’re after then take a visit to the small village of St Emilion. However, Le Saint James offers enough to never leave so if you want nothing but to relax – this is it. The hotel is home to a glorious outdoor swimming pool with enticing views. You’ll also find a terrace for enjoying a glass of Champagne and on-site cookery school which offers a once in a lifetime chance to cook with some of the worlds best chefs.
The Rooms
Our room was huge and very industrial in its styling. As you walk in the first things you notice are the gigantic bed at the centre, panoramic views and an old police motorbike in the corner of the room. The hotel consists of 18 rooms and suites. Each suite has its own unique feature and ours was the Harley Davidson, while others have their own private hot tub on the terrace and all rooms include a panoramic view for free. The suites were designed by Jean Nouvel in 1989 and while I enjoyed what we had, now is the time they could benefit from some subtle changes, such as a couple of rugs carpeting the stone floor and a little more colour to bring it into the modern-day, but keeping those iconic furniture pieces at its core. I’d hate to change it too much. The hotel spares no expense when it comes to toiletries, with some delicately fragranced products from no other than luxury brand, Hermès of Paris. Robes and slippers are of course at the ready, as were some freshly baked pastries, fruit and personal touches such as a diary, pen and motif keyring. It’s the little things that make it memorable sometimes. Our private terrrace and its views were priceless.
The Spa/Gym/Health & Fitness
There are no spa or gym facilities on site but the hotel is home to a gorgeous outdoor pool to be enjoyed during the warmer months, as well as a dry sauna. You can also take yourself on long walks through the rolling vineyards or into the city centre for those who fancy working off some of the extra pounds between meals. The French do enjoy a bit of butter after all.
The Food & Drink
One of Le Saint James’ biggest assets is its restaurant and kitchen team. Executive chef here is the multi-talented Nicolas Magie, who with the help of Christian Constant together create masterpieces in the kitchen showing off classical cooking with a twist, all while retaining its prized one Michelin star. You can read all about my gastronomic experience HERE. Opposite the hotel you’ll also find a charming little bistro called Café de l’Espérance which was so good it deserved an article of its own – you can hear lots more about it HERE. To appreciate just how complex the cooking regimes are in the kitchens of Le Saint James we even spent our last afternoon enjoying the hotels on-site cookery school. Led by Célia Girard, Sous-Chef to Nicolas Magie, classes can be tailored to all ages and abilities. We prepared a complex three course menu, recreating a dish almost identical to that we ate in the Michelin star restaurant of the hotel the night before – first white asparagus with eel stuffed morels and a heavenly jus. We felt challenged during our cookery lesson, yet relaxed during the three hours spent – enjoying our creations at the end with a glass of wine. A must experience for all, whether visiting the hotel or simply passing by.
The Verdict
Le Saint James is certainly not your usual hotel escape. It’s completely unique. From the moment you arrive in the courtyard of this hotel you feel as though you’ve been whisked away and into a fairytale, with the sweet smell of wild flowers in the air and a light warm breeze when the sun is shining. The staff here too are so passionate about what they do, assisting us in local history and places to go throughout our stay. This is a modern, luxury hotel which has been made for food & wine lovers, but it’s also the perfect retreat to simply get away from it all. Le Saint James most certainly ranks within my top 10 hotels of the world, it has a bit of everything and it does each of those elements so very well.
Le Saint-James
3 Place Camille Hostein
33270
Bouliac
Bordeaux
France
Tel: +33 5 57 97 06 00
I’m totes in love with the art pieces particularly that twiggy chair and that sad lady on the bench. However…. I’m still in awe of that motorcycle. =)
Honey x The Girl Next Shore