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  • Sleep blissfully beneath the fine linens of our tranquil rooms.
    Enjoy a relaxing soak in the romantic two-person whirlpool Jacuzzi in the Charles de Gaulle suite.
    The Burgundy room's 12-foot ceilings highlight the rich, burgundy-colored walls and custom canopy bed. The large private bathroom has a double-sink vanity, skylight, and shower/tub combination.
    Sunlight streams in from the five windows of the Lafayette room. The 12-foot ceiling and rich decor of blue-green walls are a perfect backdrop for the inviting half-tester canopy bed. The modest bathroom has a shower and small sink.
    Pour yourself a beverage and relax by the marble wet bar and sitting area in the Napoleon suite.
    Curl up by the fireplace with a book, or peruse through one of the many guidebooks we lend guests for Saint Louis sightseeing ideas.
    The spacious living room of the Josephine suite is perfect for guests who seek extra room during their stay. This 700+ sq.ft. apartment is reached via a private entrance off of the courtyard.
    The Josephine suite boasts the only full kitchen of any B&B or hotel room in St. Louis!
    The soothing blue decor of the bedroom in the Josephine suite sets the perfect mood for relaxation.
    Enjoy a full breakfast in our elegant dining room.
    Our tranquil courtyard is the perfect place to enjoy breakfast.
    Start your day with our crisp, airy, heavenly Belgian waffles! For more creative breakfast ideas, follow us on Pinterest at pinterest/napoleonbnb/
    We've elevated eggs benedict to new delectable heights with prosciutto and croissants! Follow us on Pinterest! pinterest/napoleonbnb/
    Our unique BLT crepes are an amazing combination of two classic favorites! For more creative recipe ideas from Napoleon's Retreat, follow us on Pinterest at pinterest/napoleonbnb/

    • Address 1815 Lafayette Avenue
      Saint Louis, MO 63104
      USA
    • Phone+1-314-772-6979
    • EmailContact Innkeeper
    Inn's website

    New owners Stacy and Brian Kistler purchased Napoleon's Retreat November 2011. Come visit us and experience our warm hospitality, gourmet breakfasts, and enthusiasm to share all that Saint Louis has to offer with our guests. Perhaps no other inn embodies the style and elegance of late 19th century Saint Louis. This exquisite 1880 second French Empire Victorian is located in the national historic district of Lafayette Square, chosen as one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the nation and just one mile south of downtown. The elegance of Napoleon's Retreat reflects the charm and sophistication of a bygone era in a relaxed and comfortable setting. Uniquely and tastefully decorated, each air-conditioned room features queen-sized beds and private modern baths with fine bath amenities, refrigerators, TV and complimentary wireless. Of course, a full gourmet breakfast is included. Lafayette Park is just around the corner, perfect for a morning jog or evening stoll. We are within walking distance to 8 restaurants and many quaint local shops.

    Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 11 Reviews

    4.3 out of 5
     
    • Guest room  4
    • Services  4
    • Value  4
    • Cleanliness  4
    • Dining  4

    Explanation of Our Ratings

      Outstanding
      Exceeded my expectations
      Met my expectations
      Okay, but below average
      Unsatisfactory
    5 out of 5
     

    New Owners - Premier Experience

    March 07, 2012

    When I originally researched this B&B it was still under the previous ownership. After making reservations with the new owners, I was slightly hesitant as new owners generally have an adjustment period. If there was one, it was relatively short, as the experience was fantastic. Stacy is incredibly knowledgable of the surrounding neighborhoods and is always willing to give suggestions. They also have taken steps to alleviate some of the issues that arose from the prior owners such as after hours calls. Breakfast - All breakfasts had a French cooking style to them and were wonderful and very filling. Every morning started with a fruit-based first course, followed by the breakfast entree. The coffee ground fresh but was weak by our standards. This should not reflect poorly on the B&B as Stacy will make stronger coffee at the request of her guests. I think that weak coffee is a St. Louis trend as none of the coffee we consumed while in St. Louis was particularly strong. Room - We stayed in the Napoleon room. Very spacious and quiet as it encompasses the entire 3rd floor of the house. It has it's own bathroom and a single person jacuzzi tub. While I did not use it my wife did and she completely enjoyed it. The sleeping area is seperate from a sitting area and allows for space if needed. Overall - A very enjoyable stay. Will visit again the next time we are in St. Louis.

    5 out of 5
     

    Amazing, delightful hosts

    August 12, 2010

    This was our first stay at Napoleon's retreat, the hosts were delightful. The room was impeccable and incredibly comfortable. The neighborhood was beautiful and really enjoyed walking around the park. We will definitely return.

    4.2 out of 5
     

    Great location, great service

    July 11, 2010

    We recently stayed at Napoleon's Retreat for a long weekend in St. Louis. The house was beautiful and clean. The food was delicious. The innkeepers did a great job of making us feel comfortable. Plus, the house is centrally located and close to a lot of fun things. We really enjoyed our time there. Thanks!

    2.6 out of 5
     

    A bit of a disappointment

    May 19, 2010

    The Napoleon room that we stayed in was quite large and had a separate sitting area which was nice. However, the decor was rather dated and a hodge podge of furniture. It was not up to the standards that I would expect at a classy B&B. The public areas were nicer. The most disappointing thing was the innkeepers were not very welcoming and seemed to be in a bad mood for most of the weekend. The location is good with numerous restaurants in easy walking distance.


    Location

    Innkeeper Information

    Innkeeper(s)

    Stacy & Brian

    The innkeepers speak:

    • English

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  • Rooms & Rates

    • Nightly Rate $129 - $229

    Lafayette

    This second floor guestroom has five sun-lit windows. The 12-foot ceiling and rich decor of green walls accented with gold draperies, is a perfect backdrop for the inviting half-tester canopy bed. Luxuriate in the comfort of a featherbed atop a firm mattress. The private bathroom has a shower. Cable TV, telephone, a small refrigerator, and complimentary wireless internet service are added amenities.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen

    Contact for Availability Contact

    Burgundy

    The Burgundy room's 12-foot ceilings highlight the rich, burgundy-colored walls and custom canopy bed. The large private bathroom has a double-sink vanity and combination shower/tub. A skylight in the bathroom provides warm natural light. Cable TV, telephone, a small refrigerator, and complimentary wireless internet are added amenities.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen

    Contact for Availability Contact

    Josephine Suite

    The Josephine is our newest suite and was completely remodeled in July 2012. It is a 400+ sq. ft. apartment with new furnishings and custom window treatments. The Josephine is reached via a private entrance off of the courtyard. It includes a second floor balcony overlooking the gardens. It features a living room, full kitchen, and bedroom with a queen-sized bed. The private bath has a single person Jacuzzi tub/shower. The living room is decorated in rich burgundy tones while the bedroom is in soothing shades of blue.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen

    Contact for Availability Contact

    Charles de Gaulle

    Pamper yourself in this gorgeous, serene room of sage green and cream, with its handpainted floral mural. This room has a private entrance off the garden courtyard, and a luxurious bathroom with a relaxing oversized whirlpool tub and separate shower. A British-style gas fireplace makes the room extra cozy in winter. TV w/DVD and cable, telephone, a small refrigerator, and complimentary wireless internet are added amenities.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen

    Contact for Availability Contact

    Napoleon Room

    This light and airy room on the third floor is so large it feels like a suite. With windows on three sides, there is plenty of natural light and views of downtown in the distance. Along with a sitting area, the Napoleon Room has a wet bar. The private bath has a standard size jacuzzi tub with shower. Cable TV with DVD, refrigerator, telephone, and complimentary wireless.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen

    Contact for Availability Contact

    Policy

    Reservation Policy

    • Check In: 4-6pm    Check Out: 11am

    • Minimum Stay: 2 night minimum on weekends

    • Deposit Amount Required: First night deposit or 50% of the stay, whichever is greater.

    • Cancellations: If a reservation is cancelled 14 days prior to the arrival date, the first night deposit is refunded, minus a $40.00 cancellation fee. Less than 14 days, the deposit is non-refundable, unless the room can be re-booked. Deposits for single-night stays are non-refundable. Holidays (Valentine's Day, Memorial Day, 4th of July, etc.) and group reservations of 3 or more rooms require 30 day's cancelation notice to receive a refund.

    • Open All Year Round: Yes


    General Policies

    • Smoking Allowed: Limited

    • Guest Pets Allowed: No

    • Drinking Allowed: Yes

    • Drinking Description: We do not have a liquor license.

    • Drinks Available: No

    • Children Allowed: Our romantic inn is more suited for couples.

    • Suitable For Children: No

    • Childcare Provided: No : Our inn is not suitable for children.


    Discount Type

    • 5 days
      Percent Off: 10% Days Required: 5

    • Corporate
      Percent Off: 10% Days Required: 0

    • Government
      Percent Off: 10% Days Required: 0

    • Seniors
      Percent Off: 10% Days Required: 0

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  • Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 11 Reviews

    4.3 out of 5
     
    • Guest room  4
    • Services  4
    • Value  4
    • Cleanliness  4
    • Dining  4

    Explanation of Our Ratings

      Outstanding
      Exceeded my expectations
      Met my expectations
      Okay, but below average
      Unsatisfactory
    5 out of 5
     

    New Owners - Premier Experience

    March 07, 2012

    When I originally researched this B&B it was still under the previous ownership. After making reservations with the new owners, I was slightly hesitant as new owners generally have an adjustment period. If there was one, it was relatively short, as the experience was fantastic. Stacy is incredibly knowledgable of the surrounding neighborhoods and is always willing to give suggestions. They also have taken steps to alleviate some of the issues that arose from the prior owners such as after hours calls. Breakfast - All breakfasts had a French cooking style to them and were wonderful and very filling. Every morning started with a fruit-based first course, followed by the breakfast entree. The coffee ground fresh but was weak by our standards. This should not reflect poorly on the B&B as Stacy will make stronger coffee at the request of her guests. I think that weak coffee is a St. Louis trend as none of the coffee we consumed while in St. Louis was particularly strong. Room - We stayed in the Napoleon room. Very spacious and quiet as it encompasses the entire 3rd floor of the house. It has it's own bathroom and a single person jacuzzi tub. While I did not use it my wife did and she completely enjoyed it. The sleeping area is seperate from a sitting area and allows for space if needed. Overall - A very enjoyable stay. Will visit again the next time we are in St. Louis.

    5 out of 5
     

    Amazing, delightful hosts

    August 12, 2010

    This was our first stay at Napoleon's retreat, the hosts were delightful. The room was impeccable and incredibly comfortable. The neighborhood was beautiful and really enjoyed walking around the park. We will definitely return.

    4.2 out of 5
     

    Great location, great service

    July 11, 2010

    We recently stayed at Napoleon's Retreat for a long weekend in St. Louis. The house was beautiful and clean. The food was delicious. The innkeepers did a great job of making us feel comfortable. Plus, the house is centrally located and close to a lot of fun things. We really enjoyed our time there. Thanks!

    2.6 out of 5
     

    A bit of a disappointment

    May 19, 2010

    The Napoleon room that we stayed in was quite large and had a separate sitting area which was nice. However, the decor was rather dated and a hodge podge of furniture. It was not up to the standards that I would expect at a classy B&B. The public areas were nicer. The most disappointing thing was the innkeepers were not very welcoming and seemed to be in a bad mood for most of the weekend. The location is good with numerous restaurants in easy walking distance.

    4.0 out of 5
     

    Worth a stay

    November 03, 2009

    Beautiful B&B. Awesome room. Worth a stay. Nice helpful innkeeper. Beautiful location, near nice dinner/drink area. Great bed, slept very well. Recommended!

    4.6 out of 5
     

    Great Bed & Breakfast

    August 02, 2009

    Always our first choice when we stay in St. Louis. The bed & breakfast is located in a great little section of the city within walking distance of a few restaurants, wine bars, etc. and with easy access to the highway. The breakfast is great and Michael & Jeff are excellent hosts.

    4.8 out of 5
     

    The perfect place to stay

    July 31, 2009

    We were lucky enough to stay at Napoleon's Retreat while visiting St. Louis from California. What a contrast to west coast B & B's, the value you get at Napoleon's Retreat is outstanding! We stayed in the Burgundy Room which was huge and beautifully deocorated. The rest of the Inn is just as nice. It's beautiful but still comfortable. The bath attached to the room was spacious, well appointed and sparkling. it was everything we could ask for. The garden is charming. Jeff and Michael are great hosts, they gave us really great advice on where to eat and how to get around town and the neighborhood near the Inn had super dining opportunities.

    4.4 out of 5
     

    delightful

    June 19, 2009

    Absolutely wonderful location, perfect spot. Love the spacious Lafayette room. Bath a little small, but adequate. nice breakfast and hospitality. Great location for nearby restaurants.


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  • Location Type

    • Downtown

    City - St. Louis

    • Distance to city: 1 miles

    • Directions to property:
      From downtown and the Arch, take Market St. west to 18th St. Turn left. 18th St. becomes the Truman Parkway. Proceed 1/2 mile to Lafayette Ave. Turn right and proceed one block to 1815 Lafayette Avenue.

    Airport

    • St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) 18 miles

    • Directions to property:
      Take I-70 East. Take I-170 (Innerbelt) South. Take I-64 East. Exit at Jefferson. Turn right. At 4th stoplight, turn left onto Lafayette.


    Area Attractions

    • Amusement Park

    • Antique Shopping

    • Art Galleries

    • Casino

    • Concert venue

    • Gourmet/Fine Dining

    • Historical interests

    • Live Music

    • Movie Theater

    • Museum

    • Nature area

    • Scottrade Center

    • Botanical Gardens

    • Saint Louis Arch

    • Union Station

    • Budweiser Brewery

    • Edward Jones Dome

    • Performing Theater

    • Picnic area

    • Religious Services

    • River

    • Winery

    • Zoo

    • Billiards

    • Golfing

    • Victorian Walking Park

    • Shopping

    • Sight-seeing

    • Swimming pool

    • Tennis courts

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  • Amenities

    Type:

    • Bed and Breakfast

    Property highlights

    • Antiques/decor

    • Business travel

    • Economical rates

    • Gay / Lesbian Travel

    • Honeymoons

    • Peaceful getaway

    • Romantic escape

    On-site

    • Board games

    • CD player

    • Computer

    • Copier

    Guest room(s)

    • Air conditioning

    • Alarm clock

    • Bath robes

    • Ceiling fans

    • Coffee/Tea facilities

    • DVD Player

    • In-room internet

    • Desk

    • Fireplace

    • Fridge

    • Hairdryer

    • Hot tub/whirlpool tub

    • Internet Service

    • Ironing Board

    • Private entrance

    • Radio

    • Satellite/Cable TV

    • TV

    • Telephone

    • VCR

    • Wi-Fi

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  • Breakfast

    • Type: Full

    • Time Served: 8:30am Mon-Fri; 9:30 Sat-Sun

    • Serving Location: Courtyard weather permitting,Breakfast/dining area

    Complimentary Perks

    • Non-alcoholic Beverages

    Signature Dish

    Lemon-Currant Scones
    2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) cold butter, 1/2 cup currants, 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest, juice of one lemon, 1/2 cup half and half, 1 egg- In a medium-to-large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and baking powder. Cut in butter until mixture is crumbly. Stir in currants, lemon zest and lemon juice. Beat egg with half and half and add to dry ingredients, stirring until blended. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and form into a large circle, 3/4 to 1-inch in thickness. Cut into 8-10 wedges (depending on desired size) and place on lightly greased baking sheet. Brush scones with a beaten egg or egg-milk mixture for a nice finish, and bake at 375 for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.

    Special meal options

    • Low fat

    • Restrictive

    • Vegetarian

    • Gluten-free

    • Vegan

    Additional food services

    • Brandy

    • Cookies

    • Sherry

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Explore Napoleon's Retreat Bed & Breakfast

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