Contemporary boutique townhouse
Built above medieval fortress foundations, this 19th-century townhouse pairs bold contemporary design with a quiet quayside lounge along the Loire.
What it’s good at
Listed
Eclectic bedside lamps and golden chandeliers illuminate rooms beside exposed stone moldings.
Listed
A nineteenth-century Loire townhouse standing above the medieval Châtelet fortress foundations.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
On the banks of the Loire, in the historic Orléans city center, Empreinte Hotel occupies a tenth-century building that was once an aristocratic residence.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quai du Châtelet runs directly along the river outside, while Place du Martroi sits a short stroll inland through the historic center.
The rooms
Eclectic lighting accents compact rooms with historic moldings, and river-facing windows look straight onto Pont George V.
The baths
A blue-lit whirlpool hot tub and wooden sauna sit under stone vaults, beside a hammam and herbal tea room.
The spa
The dedicated treatment room hosts Omnisens facials, traditional massage, and duo body rituals under stone vaults.
At the table
The lounge bar serves afternoon tea and evening champagne, and mornings bring a fresh pastry buffet in the dining room.
How it began

Before opening in 2016, this 19th-century building served as the city labour exchange on the footprint of the medieval Châtelet fortress.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.