Hotels don’t come much more iconic than the Chateau Marmont. As much of a celebrity as the movie stars and rock gods that have resided in this stunning West Hollywood building over the decades, the fact that mere mortals can also set up shop in the Chateau (dropping the ‘Marmont’ is proof that you’re in-the-know), is, quite frankly, wild.
Built in 1927, for its first few years the Chateau was a residential building for transient members of the moving picture industry. Thanks to its niche look—there were many English Tudor mansions and Spanish casitas in Hollywood, but very few French castles—the Chateau attracted a steady stream of business. In the 1960s the rock stars discovered it—if you had a record deal, a fondness for psychedelics and a dislike of haircuts, it’s likely you had a good time at the Chateau—and today, it remains a favorite of the movie and music industry.
Why stay at Chateau Marmont?
Courtney Love summed up the hotel’s eternal appeal best, calling the Chateau: ‘The setting of the most wonderful thrashings, trashings, wreckings, best-kept secrets, true lies, velvet mornings, bougainvillea purple hazes, honestly lovely purely lazy sexiest days that Los Angeles has ever had.’ Hidden away behind that blooming bougainvillea and a dense thicket of evergreen trees, the hotel’s entrance is more of a test than a front door. But if you work out how to get inside—the trick is to keep on walking past the garage and turn left at the end of the gray paving slabs—your kingdom awaits. It’s the perfect base for a debauched L.A. weekend, and equally, is one of the most homely-feeling hotels in the city.
What are the rooms like at Chateau Marmont?
We’ll level with you. The 63 rooms and suites are basic, but beautiful. You won’t get the bells and whistles you do at slicker (and far more expensive) West Hollywood hotels. There are no iPads on which to order room service, no electric black-out blinds, and there’s a teeny, tiny lift to take you upstairs. What you will get is midcentury gas cookers in fully-kitted out mini kitchens, 1930s tiled bathrooms, vintage teak furniture and a serious blast of old school elegance. Headed ‘In Residence’ letter writing paper with the lead guest’s name on it is also a very, very nice touch. As you enter your room, an iPod programmed with the likes of Dorothy Ashby and Jim Croce will lull you into a fitting state of bliss. This is a hotel that treats you like an adult, rather than babying you. It’s not for everyone, but I love it. As well there are nine Spanish-style cottages by the pool and four midcentury bungalows in the gorgeous garden, which offer even more privacy.
What is the food like at Chateau Marmont?
Food at the Chateau’s in-demand patio restaurant is more than decent, but this coveted outdoor space (taking photos is banned unless done very, very subtly) is more about high-powered Hollywood meetings than fine dining. The star power here is high—expect to see movers and shakers sealing deals over fries—and dinner reservations are reserved for hotel guests (or the rich and famous, or anyone willing to phone up and wait two weeks for a table).
If you’re not staying at the hotel but want a taste of the good life, anyone can swing by for breakfast or lunch. The garden seats are the best. If you have a room with a kitchenette, we recommend cooking for yourself. ‘I would not feel cheated by life if I died in Chateau Marmont,’ wrote the chef Anthony Bourdain, who bore an extremely soft spot for the hotel. He would start he days on his bungalow terrace with coffee, the newspapers and scrambled eggs made in his en suite kitchen, accessorized with bacon, spring onions and sour cream.
What is the service like at Chateau Marmont?
Nothing less than charming. Guests will always be greeted with a ‘welcome home’, and if you’re staying at the hotel, staff feel very much on-side—they’ve seen it all and it takes a lot to shock them. They might not have space in the restaurant for anyone just walking in off the street (well, unless it’s Steve Martin or Miley Cyrus), but for a resident? Anything. We decided to use the charming mid-century stove in our junior suite, but it was switched off. A quick call was made down to reception and within minutes someone was there to switch on the gas and tell us how to use the vintage appliance without setting ourselves on fire.
What is the pool and gym like at Chateau Marmont?
If you’ve come to the Chateau Marmont to work out, you’ve come to the wrong hotel. Sure, there’s a pool—and a lovely one at that—but it’s more for lounging around than doing laps. Go for a walk up into the hills behind the hotel if you want to get your steps in.
What is the area like around Chateau Marmont?
Uniquely for West Hollywood, this is quite a walkable neighborhood. You’re right by the questionable delights of the Sunset Strip, as well as venues such as the Comedy Store. Hollywood and Beverly Hills are both a short drive away, and if you’re here to hit up the classic L.A. tourist trail, you couldn’t be better situated.
Why should you book a stay at Chateau Marmont?
If it’s Hollywood history and L.A. lore you’re after, then there is no better place to stay than the Chateau Marmont. It’s chic in a way that Hollywood rarely is these days, and though it’s certainly not cheap, it’s a far better deal than some of the other luxe hotels in West Hollywood.
DETAILS
Address: 8221 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Price per night: Rooms from $685
Closest transport: LAX and Burbank Airports
Book now: via Booking.com
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