IHG Opens Very Special Hotel in Lyon, France

IHG has opened one of its most beautiful hotels, following an extensive four-year restoration of one of Lyon’s most iconic buildings.

The renovation of the Grand Hôtel Dieu complex is the largest private transformation of an historic monument carried out in France to date.

The 178-room InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu forms part of the Grand Hôtel Dieu and was reimagined by renowned interior designer, Jean-Philippe Nuel. His focus was on maintaining the original beauty and architecture of the building, whilst offering a contemporary, understated luxury design which is rooted in the history of Lyon and the building itself.

Lyon was once the capital of the European silk industry, playing a central role in the Silk Road trade between east and west. This led to a booming local silk industry which is still an important part of the city’s culture today. The city is also famed for its floral art which was an early source of inspiration for the local silk industry – a key design theme of the hotel. Prestigious Lyonnais silk creator Verel de Belval, a subsidiary of the Hermès group, has designed custom silk prints which can be seen throughout the rooms and public areas in silk screen panels, cushions and soft furnishings.

These rich fabrics perfectly contrast with the original architectural features of the building, such as stone floors, plastered walls and timber ceilings. This ‘monastic yet sophisticated’ design was inspired by the historical use of the building - as the city’s hospital for more than 800 years - combined with the desire to create a destination for global travellers.

Tom Rowntree, Vice President, Global Luxury Brands at IHG, said, “InterContinental is known for transforming heritage buildings into stunning properties whilst maintaining their historic spirit, and InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu is a perfect example of that. This new opening marks the sixth in the remarkable InterContinental portfolio in France which includes the likes of Carlton Cannes, Marseille – Hotel Dieu and Paris Le Grand. Lyon is full of sophistication, culture and a rich history, making it a perfect fit for InterContinental as we pioneer in new luxury destinations worldwide.”

Le Dôme Bar is nestled in the heart of the hotel within the grand dome, one of the most breathtaking features of InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu. Originally housing a chapel, today the dome is a space where hotel guests and locals can come together under its 32m high ceiling. Originally designed by Jacques-Germain Soufflot, architect of the Pantheon in Paris, Soufflot was called away during the project and he never saw the dome finished. The dome has since been named in his honour as the ‘Soufflot Dome’.

Le Dôme bar is open for all-day drinks and light bites. Traditional, local products are a key focus for the signature cocktails and Le Dôme offers a fresh twist on the famous pink praline, a traditional Lyon confectionery, combining it with vodka, pink champagne and lemon for a unique cocktail.

In addition to a restaurant, Club Lounge, 1,500 sqm of flexible event space, the InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu features a spa, hammam and 24-hour gym.

Standard rooms at InterContinental Lyon - Hotel Dieu start from £250.

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