Voulez-vous coucher…at the Moulin Rouge? Grab your essentials and pack your toothbrush because for the first time in its 133-year-old history, the moulin has been transformed into an exquisite Airbnb, and we got an exclusive peek. While Airbnb offers wild windmill stays all over the world, none are as iconic as this one on Paris’s Boulevard de Clichy in Montmartre.
Starting on Tuesday, 17 May at 1pm EST, anyone will have a shot at experiencing one of three nights (13, 20, and 27 June) inside the 270-square-foot windmill. Moreover, it’ll only cost €1 – including dinner, a performance of the longstanding show Féerie, and backstage access to meet the host and the artisans crafting the show’s exquisite costumes.
As an adopted Parisian for over seven years and a lover of the stage and sequins, the idea of sleeping atop the famed nightclub was thrilling. Rather than being among the hordes of tourists snapping selfies from the boulevard below, I would be in the midst of the action. However, the room reveal would happen after the 9pm show, which, considering its run of over 20 years, held its own charm, filled with mesmerizing performances and stunning acrobatics. I enjoyed an exclusive meal curated by resident chef Arnaud Demerville, featuring tasty seasonal dishes.
Concerns arose about drinks, as sleeping inside a centuries-old windmill typically means shared facilities. To reach the nearest bathroom, I’d need to walk outside onto the terrace, descend stairs, and enter the club next door. The walk was manageable, although I opted for a more traditional washing method reminiscent of early 1900s etiquette.
This brings me to the accommodations themselves – they are absolutely out-of-this-world dreamy. With soaring 16-foot high ceilings draped in pastel fabrics over wrought-iron bird cages and feather light fixtures, it is filled with antique furnishings and decor from the Belle Époque.
Amplify Design Agency dedicated a month perfecting the aesthetic, sourcing materials from flea markets and vintage shops. The room features stacks of classics, vanity adorned with exquisite bottles, and love letters written in a passionate script. The renovation challenge was remarkable but resulted in a beautiful space.
While the chance to enjoy the space is enticing, preparing for sleep was equally luxurious. The ambiance of the Moulin Rouge combined with the delights of Paris provided an unforgettable experience. In the morning, breakfast brought fresh strawberries, pastries, juice, and coffee—an indulgent way to start the day while I wished to prolong my stay.
Five Windmills Worth a Stay Around the World
While the Moulin Rouge stands out, if you can’t snag a night at this iconic windmill, consider these unique windmill accommodations instead.
Antiparos, Greece
Windmills are plentiful in Greece, especially on the islands. This one on quiet Antiparos features chic decor, an infinity pool, and an outdoor kitchen and terrace. From £359 per night
Setúbal, Portugal
Built in 1855, this windmill just outside Lisbon retains all its original charm—wooden beams and azulejos tiles. We love the nooks perfect for relaxations. From £116 per night
Rosebud, Canada
This fully-equipped windmill dubbed ‘The Impossible Dream’ in Alberta showcases local craftsmanship with cedar plank floors and exposed beams. From £100 per night
Capitola, California
Bright red on the outside with vibrant interior, this windmill in California exudes a retro vibe with stunning outdoor views. From £1,214 per night
Wissenkerke, Netherlands
This Dutch windmill blends old-world charm with modern aesthetics, featuring exposed brick walls and chic furnishings. From £172 per night
