iBestTravel’s Disneyland Hotel: A Magical Experience

After a magnificent three-year renovation, the doors to Disneyland’s swanky family hotel are finally open once again.

16 February 2024

First Impressions

We’re sitting in the lobby waiting to be checked in, which can often be a slow, less-inspiring holiday moment, especially with a Duracel-charged toddler at our heels. However, this is Disneyland. The lobby is a palatial, light-filled space – a nod to the French fairytale Beauty and the Beast, symbolizing storytelling and stepping into another world.

Overhead is a vast chandelier, a glass Sleeping Beauty’s castle within a wand-swirl of twinkling crystal charms. Ahead is a grand symmetrical staircase flanked by flutes of fresh flowers. As we wait, cleaning staff in pressed white uniforms burst into song – Be Our Guest, what else – while colourfully dressed characters teach children how to bow and curtsey before Cinderella’s arrival. This is an all-singing, all-dancing introduction to the new five-star Disneyland Hotel.

A Grand Opening

We’ve arrived on opening weekend, a thrilling reveal after a three-year hiatus due to its extensive top-to-bottom refurbishment, the first since it opened in 1992. The exterior of the building (candyfloss pink, with emerald green awning) remains largely the same, a joy as it serves as the gateway to the theme park. Inside, the colour scheme is now an ethereal palette of pastels, silver, and rose gold, leaning towards warmer tones that provide a cozy atmosphere despite the grand scale.

Beyond the lobby lies the rotunda, a large octagonal structure that forms the peak of the hotel’s iconic silhouette. The ceiling is painted midnight blue and covered in stars, creating a magical backdrop for dining experiences at the hotel’s three main restaurants: the Royal Banquet, a buffet-style dining room with pop-in visits from Mickey and Minnie; the Fleur de Lis lounge, a cocktail bar (non-alcoholic options are served for younger guests); and La Table de Lumière, a glossy gold and mirrored restaurant inspired by both Beauty and the Beast and the Château de Versailles, featuring fine dining cuisine.

Architectural Elegance

The architectural style celebrates Disneyland Paris’ unique identity as the ‘Royal’ park in the Disneyland crown. As the only Disney park in Europe, it draws heavily from its Princess heritage, inspired by European fairy tales and folk stories such as Snow White, Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, and Frozen. Rather than recreating specific rooms from its films, the design team drew inspiration from the broader Disney universe, exemplified by its 16 signature suites, each themed to a different Disney Princess.

Experience Five-Star Luxury

One of the most notable changes is the hotel’s new five-star status. During renovations, the group hired Majbritt Iaconis, previously of The Ritz Paris, as General Manager. Her discerning eye for detail and guest services raised the hotel standards to rival any other five-star landmark in Paris. The friendliness of the staff is noteworthy; bell boys tip their hats with flourishes, waitresses distribute shiny stickers to children, and guests are greeted with cheerful “Bonjour!” from everyone you pass.

Children are treated like VIPs, provided with gilded high chairs, dedicated kids’ menus, and direct access to the park. Safety is paramount, with thorough screenings for cars and bags upon arrival, allowing parents to enjoy the experience without worry. The hotel truly functions as one giant sensory soft play area.

Spacious Accommodations

The hotel features 487 spacious rooms, offering soft, plush beds and outrageously plump pillows, essential after a full day of family adventures. Cots are available upon request and come equipped with full bedding and baby sleeping bags. The calming purples and greys of the decor complement twinkling portraits of Cinderella above the beds. Each room includes charming touches like light switches featuring crescent moons or Tangled sun motifs, as well as hidden details such as Cinderella’s slipper embedded in the carpet. Robes and slippers are provided for both adults and children.

Unbeatable Location

The location is unmatched, as the hotel serves as the primary gateway to the park. This is especially convenient for families needing to return for naps. Fast-track ticket options are available, ensuring you won’t have to wait long for rides. Dining reservations should be made in advance, allowing guests to fully enjoy their experiences throughout their stay.

Meeting beloved characters is a highlight for many. Guests can have one-on-one interactions with favorite Disney Princesses. During our visit, we were lucky enough to encounter Cinderella and Snow White, making this trip all the more enchanting.