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Hotel of the Week: Paris Society’s Newest Property Transforms a 12th-Century Abbey

Medieval architecture meets romantic opulence at the sumptuous l’Abbaye des Vaux-de-Cernay, located in the French countryside

By Geoffrey Montes
Aerial view of a historic chateau surrounded by lush green gardens and a river in the background.
La vallée de Chevreuse. Hôtel de l’Abbaye des Vaux-de-Cernay à Cernay-la-Ville Photo: ERIC MARTIN

Steeped in history and surrounded by natural splendor, an enchanting new hotel from Laurent de Gourcuff’s buzzy hospitality firm, Paris Society, thrillingly blends medieval architecture with romantic opulence. Set on 185 acres in the French countryside, about 30 miles from Paris, l’Abbaye des Vaux-de-Cernay dates from the 12th century and served as a Cistercian abbey before becoming the summer compound for Baroness Charlotte de Rothschild. The landmark recently underwent a $65 million transformation, helmed by designer Cordelia de Castellane, who channeled Anglophile glamour to ground every space— from the banquet-style chapter house to the 147 guest rooms and suites—with a timeless essence.

Explore the enchanting property below.

The James’ Bar at l’Abbaye des Vaux-de-Cernay makes the list of Paris hotels.
Located in the heart of L’Abbaye, the illustrious James’ Bar is named after the esteemed brother of the Baroness de Rothchild. Photo: ERIC MARTIN
Elegant vintage-style bedroom with floral wallpaper, large bed, two armchairs, and a wooden table by a window.
La suite du Baron features drapery, woodwork and carved pilasters. Photo: ERIC MARTIN
Elegant dining hall with arched stone ceiling, wooden tables, and buffet counter displaying pastries and glass bottles.
Le Réfectoire des Moines is a spectacular setting to enjoy breakfasts and brunches. Photo: ERIC MARTIN
Elegant restaurant interior with vintage decor, ornate furniture, white tablecloths, and decorative plates on walls.
Les Chasses serves traditional and elegant French cuisine in an imaginative manor house-style setting. Photo: ERIC MARTIN
Elegant bar with ornate wooden counter, vintage chandelier, and fully stocked shelves in an arched, decorative interior setting.
James’ Bar. Photo: ERIC MARTIN
Elegant corridor with floral wallpaper, blue carpet, wooden furniture, chandeliers, and sunlight streaming through tall arched windows.
The entrance gallery features an original chandelier and fabrics by Cordélia de Castellane. Photo: ERIC MARTIN
Luxurious hotel room with ornate wood paneling, elegant chandelier, and a large bed with patterned bedding.
La suite de la Baronne is a tribute to Charlotte de Rothschild, the former mistress of the Abbey. Photo: ERIC MARTIN
Luxurious vintage bathroom with ornate wood paneling, large mirrors, and elegant lighting, featuring a tub and vanity table.
La suite de la Baronne’s bath. Photo: ERIC MARTIN
Historic lounge with stone arches, wooden floors, a grand piano, elegant seating, and decorative lamps.
The music living room features William Morris wallpaper and Pierre Frey fabrics. Photo: ERIC MARTIN
Cozy attic bedroom with a double bed, floral-patterned wallpaper, striped bed skirt, and matching upholstered chair.
Once home to the estate’s former stables, les Haras is set around a verdant courtyard and features attic rooms decorated with tapestries and canvases by Jouy. Photo: ERIC MARTIN
Cozy attic bedroom with floral wallpaper, white bedding, antique phone on side table, and framed botanical prints.
Chambre Tiny in les Haras, the estate’s former stables that now house attic guest rooms. Photo: ERIC MARTIN
Elegant bathroom with a wooden vanity, round mirror, striped wallpaper, gold wall lamp, and tiled floor.
The baths in le Haras rooms. Photo: ERIC MARTIN
Luxury spa room with two treatment tables, fresh flowers, and calming decor.
One of the luxe treatment rooms at the spa. Photo: ERIC MARTIN