Hotel – Reception
Charm, elegance, and authenticity
In the heart of Vichy, remarkably located opposite the Vichy Congress Opera House, a stone's throw from the thermal baths and pedestrian streets, the Aletti Palace is surrounded by green spaces.
Its early 20th-century architecture blends perfectly with the tradition of elegance and refined style of this Belle Epoque resort, famous for its thermal baths, waters, and art de vivre.
- Ideal location in the heart of Vichy, close to thermal baths and attractions.
- Attentive and dedicated staff, guaranteeing an exceptional stay.
- Chambres spacieuses et confortables, pour un séjour tout en élégance.
- Timeless heritage and contemporary comfort in an exceptional location
Reception, customized service
The reception area symbolizes the warm welcome you receive at the Aletti Palace. From the moment you step through the old-fashioned revolving door into the grand reception hall, the classic, refined decor sets the tone.
At the heart of the Aletti Palace, the reception desk handles reservations, laundry, and many other services, ensuring an elegant, comfortable, and perfectly cared-for stay.
- Assistance and tailor-made services for a completely comfortable stay
- Organization of transportation and transfers according to your preferences
- Personalized advice for excursions and discoveries around Vichy
History of the hotel
In 1844, Villa Maussant emerged as one of the first places to stay in Vichy, soon becoming known for welcoming many visitors. In 1846, it appeared on Colonel Lapie's map as a furnished house. In 1861, it became the Hôtel des Thermes and hosted Napoleon III, who set up his “civil and military residence” there, bringing together relatives, doctors, officers, and collaborators. This milestone marked the beginning of a long history, making the hotel a central establishment in Vichy.
In July 1861, the Hôtel des Thermes welcomed Napoleon III and his court. At the time, the establishment consisted of two separate buildings, including the Villa Maussant. Although considered a “grand hotel,” it remained modest compared to the palaces of Paris, offering decent but cramped rooms, gas lighting, and toilet water delivered by servants.
In 1882, the Hôtel des Thermes underwent major renovations. Under the direction of architect Révoil, the ground floor on the Rue Alquié side was completely redesigned to create a large dining room. This rectangular room, designed for the “table d'hôtes” (guest table), was divided into bays supported by cast iron columns and decorated with paintings and decorative ceilings. Large windows brought light and elegance, marking a decisive step in the hotel's evolution.
After Auguste Maussant's death in 1910, Dr. Frémont rebuilt the hotel, entrusting the work to architect René Moreau. A monumental seven-story building with a roof terrace and 300 luxurious rooms with bathrooms was built next to the Casino. The lobby and lounges cover more than 1,000 square meters, offering spa guests an exceptional setting in Vichy.
In 1914, the Thermal Palace was requisitioned as temporary hospital No. 45 to care for the war wounded, interrupting its hotel activities. The balconies filled with convalescing soldiers. At the end of the conflict, the hotel struggled to regain its prestige until Joseph Aletti took over management in 1920, marking a new era for the Vichy establishment.
During World War II, the Thermal Palace housed various government departments and suffered significant damage. Its renovation, completed in 1954 at a cost of 100 million francs, enabled the hotel to gradually reopen. The following years saw the emergence of the “Club sur le toit” and a major restructuring, transforming part of the hotel into apartments, while a third remained dedicated to luxury hospitality.
In 1959, the Thermal Palace underwent major restructuring to avoid liquidation. Two-thirds of the establishment were converted into rental apartments, while the remaining third continued to operate as a hotel under the name Aletti Thermal Palace. This adaptation marked a turning point in the history of the palace, responding to the new needs of Vichy's clientele.
In 1992, the hotel became the Aletti Palace. It was completely renovated, retaining its original elegance and comfort. In 1998, Villa Strauss welcomed La Véranda restaurant, offering a new convivial space. These developments marked the palace's adaptation to the Art Deco style and contemporary requirements, consolidating its identity in the Vichy hotel landscape.
A living witness to the Belle Époque, the Aletti Palace retains its original features: mahogany revolving door, ironwork by Eugène Goujon, stained glass windows from Londonderry House. In 2004, it served as the setting for Jean-Paul Rappeneau's film “Bon voyage,” which won the César Award for Best Set Design. The hotel also welcomes great artists performing at the nearby Opera House, such as Madeleine Renaud, Yehudi Menuhin, and Rudolf Nureyev, to name but a few.
Aletti Palace Gallery
The images of the Aletti Palace reveal its sumptuous lobby, elegant reception area, and Belle Époque spaces, offering a glimpse of the hotel's prestige, comfort, and refinement.
