Soon, You’ll Be Able To Sleep At The Palace Of Versailles

In addition to its stunningly manicured gardens, gold-laden Hall of Mirrors, and the bucolic Queen's Hamlet, the Palace of Versailles may soon offer a new attraction: A hotel. Back in 2010, Hotel Chatter reported that the famously opulent French palace, built by King Louis XIV, would open a 23-room luxury hotel, the Hôtel du Grand Contrôle, in late 2011. So, we waited. And waited. But the plan was eventually abandoned. Now, it seems that it may finally come to fruition. According to Condé Nast Traveler, palace management is currently looking for an outside partner to renovate and transform three buildings just outside the palace gates into a high-end hotel (still to be called the Hôtel du Grand Contrôle). The buildings, which have fallen into disrepair over the years, will cost many millions to renovate; bids are being accepted through September 14, and if all goes according to plan, the hotel could open as soon as next year. A World Heritage Site, the Palace of Versailles dates back to 1631 and was home to both King Louis XVI and his legendary wife, Marie Antoinette, along with members of the French government and court. It is also the location in which the Treaty of Versailles was signed, officially marking the end of World War I in June, 1919. As it stands now, visitors (of which there are over 3 million a year!) must take a dedicated trip to see the 17th century palace, which is situated about 10 miles outside of Paris. If the Hôtel du Grand Contrôle finally comes to life, tourists may be able to skip the trek altogether and simply gaze out their windows at the famed grounds. (Condé Nast Traveler)