The Best Hotels For a Luxurious Stay in the South of France
As a myriad of stunning exhibitions sweep the French Riviera this summer, visitors will want to keep in mind these top hotels to complete the magnificent journey.
Courtesy of the Hôtel de Paris.
Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo
Part of the prestigious Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer hotel portfolio, the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo—situated idyllically on Place du Casino—is a ravishing getaway, fit with opulent offerings such as Michelin-starred dining, the Opéra Garnier, and Casino de Monte-Carlo. Following a multi-year renovation, updated guest rooms and suites (including the palatial Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III rooms) radiate with sumptuous lighting and interior design, heightened with immaculate attention to detail. A dreamlike respite can be found with classic tea service in the Jewellers’ Courtyard in the afternoon, while effervescent jazz music at Le Bar Américain is a sublime nightcap.
Whitewaller recommends: Indulging in a refreshing swim at the Wellness Sky Club’s rooftop pool, followed by a delectable taste of Mediterranean cuisine on the panoramic terrace of Le Grill.
Courtesy of Hôtel Hermitage.
Hôtel Hermitage
In the dynamic center of resplendent Monaco, Hôtel Hermitage welcomes international guests to a five-star paradise that echoes the dazzling artistry of France’s beloved Belle Époque. Peaceful and extravagant, the romantic escape boasts the tempting Michelin-starred Pavyllon Monte-Carlo, a restaurant by Yannick Alléno, which offers decadent seafood dishes in a cozy setting. Also offered onsite is the hotel’s Le Limùn, an all-day dining hotspot designed to envelop guests in the invigorating atmosphere of a transatlantic cruise liner. Superior suites embellished with lavish jacuzzis and private terraces are the icing on the hospitality cake.
Whitewaller recommends: Beginning your evening with a toast at the swank Crystal Bar, serving the finest champagne on the Riviera.
Courtesy of Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel.
Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel
Offering warm weather indulgence until October 1, the seaside Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel has been delighting guests as an elevated retreat within nature’s bounty since the 1930s. Located on an uber-private beach, visitors can journey from a dip in the silken waves to the Olympic-sized pool at their leisure. Officially certified as a Green Globe member in 2014, the forward-thinking hotel and beach club adheres to strict codes of sustainability. Designed by illustrious architect India-Mahdavi, the property’s artful warmth plays out in sculptural nods to the roaring twenties. Unforgettable culinary adventures unfold at Elsa, a hidden treasure of seasonal delights, and Le Deck, a sparkling family-friendly brasserie of impeccable hospitality.
Whitewaller recommends: Exploring a myriad of sunny-day water sports at the hotel, from boating to parasailing—and recovering in the magical hammam.
Courtesy of Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort.
Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort
The Green Globe-certified Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort presents a modern oasis with sensational views of the glittering Mediterranean Sea, a fragrant garden with four waterfalls, a heated pool, and a tranquil, sand-softened lagoon. Guests are encouraged to explore the grounds and dine at the open-air two Michelin-starred Blue Bay restaurant and witness Chef Marcel Ravin construct Caribbean and Mediterranean masterpieces. Also available is a sample of Chef’s all-day favorites at L’Orange Verte, which evokes his memorable travels across the globe. The hotel offers a lavish hair salon, fitness sanctuary, and business center on the property, too, so that your every need is sure to be met.
Whitewaller recommends: Visiting the Cinq Mondes spa and indulging in the Summer Bay Découverte package—a serene blend of treatments, a three-course lunch, and restoration in the sauna and lagoon.
