THE PENINSULA PARIS is preparing for Noël and things are starting to look mighty festive. Staff in snow-white Peninsula uniforms are hanging baubles, wrapping garlands around bannisters, making gingerbread houses and putting the finishing touches on some spectacular trees.

The Peninsula Paris, together with the Make-a-Wish® Foundation, invites children of all ages to inaugurate the season by decorating the main majestic Christmas tree located in the hotel’s lobby. A life-size gingerbread house will also be a highlight for children. From December 6 to 24, La Terrasse Kléber will be transformed into an enchanting traditional Christmas market, decorated with spectacular Christmas trees and decorations. On sale are a tempting array of exclusive gifts, including cuddly toys by Steiff, gloves, games and home fragrances, as well as a selection of special Peninsula-theme gifts.

A Seafood Chalet featuring the finest oysters, salmon, caviar, lobster and sea urchin complemented by a selection of white wine, champagne and vodka caters for adults. While children will love the Sweet Chalet offering hot chocolate and tempting treats including crêpes, waffles, warm chestnuts and pretzels. Guest can also curl up in the lobby, hot chocolate in hand, while being serenaded with Yuletide songs sung by a local choir.

This year pastry chef Antony Terrone’s Bûche de Noël (Christmas log) is inspired by the L”oiseau Blanc bi-plane with a filling as fluffy as clouds and a little plane on top. Guests will also find the Christmas spirit alive and well at the Kléber Bar, which also participates in the festivities by offering a red Christmas Cocktail which combines vodka with amaretto, raspberry juice and white chocolate syrup, topped off with a candy cane – the perfect way to spread a little Christmas cheer throughout December.

Those looking to take in the City of Light at its brightest can trot off in a horse-drawn carriage to admire the magnifique street decorations, while gourmands will have no shortage of tempting culinary treats with The Lobby, LiLi and L’Oiseau Blanc, all serving up special seasonal brunches, lunches and dinners on 24 and 25 December.

Luxury Link: www.paris.peninsula.com

Lisa Edwards  8/11/16