Hotel Review: Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo

Monte-Carlo’s rare features, boating amenities, easy walking distances, and luxury charm make it one of the most famous playgrounds on the French Riviera.

Run-of-the-mill just won’t cut it here, and one of the most iconic places to stay is the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo. Its prime location on Casino Square, with the Prince's Palace and the Mediterranean as back drops, makes it unbeatable when it comes to getting the full Monaco experience.

The hotel’s complete four-year renovation has resulted in a fresh mix of modern and traditional décor. After taking in the façade capturing the Belle Époque spirit, your eyes are drawn to the massive central floral arrangement as you enter the building, crowned by a shimmering chandelier and cupola. As well as being just as Instagram-worthy, the bronze statue of Louis XIV on horseback in the lobby is said to bring luck to those who rub the horse’s shiny knee.

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My light and spacious room had a combination of softly-shaded, sleek-lined furniture, including a black wooden desk, complemented by white Calacatta marble floors, golden artwork, and time-honoured accents like gilded glass. The scene stealer, as you might expect, is just outside the room on the balcony, offering up a perfect view of the film set surroundings.

Al Fresco Dining

Travellers understandably want to take advantage of the region’s pleasant weather, and there are lots of outdoor dining options to enjoy the array of culinary excellences.

There’s a terrace at the 1920s-inspired Le Bar Américain, where my Niçoise salad was super fresh thanks to vegetables coming straight from a nearby farm. And a retractable roof at Michelin-starred Le Grill offers dining under the stars. Insider tip: go for the free-range chicken with Provençal tangs and the to-die-for soufflé.

I was lucky to attend a (naturally) well-heeled, VIP crammed event celebrating the first anniversary of Pavyllon Monte-Carlo at the nearby Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo.

The celebrated Yannick Alléno, who has 15 Michelin stars across his restaurants, has created some signature platters, and champions of well-being have lots of plant-based and seafood choices.

Additionally, cold extraction and fermentation techniques help keep the menu light. While watching the chefs in the open kitchen can be fascinating, the terrace – with its harbour and old town views – is the spot to dine and dream.

Next up, and perhaps surprisingly, is Lebanese hospitality, which you can find at Em Sherif Monte Carlo.

Levantine flavours are blended with their relatives from the western Mediterranean. It’s hard not to notice the plates and other details that display what many feel – an unconditional love for Beirut. The tastes of executive chef Yasmina Hayek’s mezze dishes and mains take diners on a culinary journey. The restaurant’s terrace is an opportunity to soak in the views – just like the Chicha Lounge Bar, set in a garden area full of amazing scents.

Time to Chill

While the lobby is definitely a top people watching spot, Le Patio, one of the hotel’s green havens, is perfect for catching up on phone calls and reading. And the treelined inner courtyard just happens to be connected to the luxe shopping hub, One Monte-Carlo.

In addition to the hotel’s rooftop sanctuary, the Wellness Sky Club, there’s the three storey Thermes Marins, where I had the chance to get a radiance-boosting facial at the Decorté pop-up. Elsa, the beautician, worked her magic with an enzymatic wonder, brightening clay mask, upper body massage, and more. Visits to the sea water pool and outdoor jacuzzi also helped to rejuvenate.

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I recommend spending a few hours at Monte-Carlo Beach, easily accessible thanks to the Cercle Monte-Carlo card that offers entry to other Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer properties. After lounging by the heated Olympic pool, head for lunch on the terrace at Elsa’s, the quintessential Côte d'Azur spot.

Chef Mélanie Serre, who comes out to meet diners, offers sustainable fine cuisine presented in an exquisite way. As well as privacy, many return to Hôtel de Paris for the caring and efficient personalised service.

In addition, the hotel’s commitment to sustainability – from the eco-friendly straws to the water-saving techniques and use of local suppliers – is another pull for the modern conscientious traveller. It's a welcome evolution that pairs nicely with a storied institution that has welcomed guests such as Winston Churchill, Alexandre Dumas, Maria Callas, and Salvador Dali over the decades.

Must-Do's in Monte Carlo

Out on the town: This year's edition of the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival, which takes place every July and August, includes performances by Norah Jones, Sting, Mika, Seal, Robbie Williams, Tarkan, and more.

Another hotspot is Maona Monte-Carlo, a lounge made for dancing by the beach. If you're looking for somewhere a little more lively, you could also head to Coya MonteCarlo, with its buzzing vibe, sequin-clad dancers, and lush Instagrammable décor.

Visit the harbour: One of the world’s most famous harbours is home to unmatched panoramic views and super-yachts, so if you haven’t planned a boat trip from there, make time to visit. Park yourself at a waterside café and watch the world go by