Euro STARS

BY CHRISTINA OHLY EVANS

For those interested in a summer holiday in Europe, the time to start planning is right now. With a strong U.S. dollar, increased flight capacity and added routes to smaller cities, the appetite for adventures abroad shows no signs of waning. Here are just a few of the recently—or soon to be—opened hotels across the Continent and in the U.K. From a chic French chateau to a design-led, historic project by British architect Sir David Chipperfield in central London, travelers are spoiled for stylish choice this spring.

FRANCE

HÔTEL BALZAC

Just off the Champs-Élysées in the 8th arrondissement, this 58-room hotel is a chic haven offering Eiffel Tower views and open-air terraces. With a recent re-do by Festen Architecture, the glass-roofed lobby lounge invites guests to linger, while the Japanese-inspired Spa Ikoi is a unique offering in the city’s well- ness space. Of special note is one of Paris’ chicest hotel bars (don’t miss the elevated take on a lobster roll) where travelers and locals alike meet for aperitifs. hotelbalzac.paris

CHÂTEAU DE FIAC

The lesser-known Occitania region in the South of France is now home to Château de Fiac, a 19th-century castle-cum-boutique hotel. Just 30 miles from Toulouse, the property’s 16 rooms and suites have been designed by Alexis Dupont and incorporate both historical and modern elements— with each enjoying expansive views of the surrounding lush gardens. A state-of-the- art Revivo spa (the first one for The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts brand in Europe) inspired by the original Balinese outpost is focused on the power of the ocean, from marine peels and spirulina- boosted facials to an Icelandic plunge pool, swimming pool and a hammam. Signature Retreats are also offered (a three-night minimum) to destress, detox and focus on nutrition and yoga technique. chateaudefiac.com