Cannes

Cannes, the jewel in the crown of the French Riviera. Famed for its palm tree lined Promenade de la Croisette, the Cannes Yachting Festival and of course the world famous Cannes Film Festival. Twinned with Beverly Hills this ultra glamourous resort city attracts stars from film, fashion and the arts in their droves. With designer shops, five star hotels and upscale restaurants it’s easy to see how Cannes is the luxury capital of the Côte d’Azur.

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, 167-165 Bd J. F. Kennedy, 06160 Antibes

One of the world’s most famous and iconic luxury hotels: Hotel du Cap-Eden Roc. Consisting of 111 rooms, suites and private villas this lavish property is renowned for its scenic views, refined luxury and privacy. Where the rich and famous stay on vacation. John F. Kennedy, Johnny Depp and Prince have all been guests at this grand château. Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton were said to have conducted their affair, then subsequently enjoyed their honeymoon at Hotel du Cap-Eden Roc.

Managed by Oetker Hotels which boast Jumby Bay, Antigua in the Caribbean and The Lanesborough, London in their portfolio of luxury hotels. Each room and suite is carefully and tastefully considered. Beautiful touches such as roses in every room from their very own 150 year old rose garden. Villa Les Cèdres is the place to stay for ultimate privacy. A whopping 14 bedroom villa perfect for a large family or Hollywood royalty with an entourage. Said to be the most expensive villa in the world and once home to King Leopold II of Belgium it really is palatial dwellings fit for a King. Valued at over £350 million it really is its own estate with 25 green houses, a library holding over 3000 books, an Olympic sized swimming pool, stables and the worlds largest private botanical garden. A real showstopper of a hotel and the ultimate luxury stay on the French Riviera .

Hotel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes, 10 Bd de la Croisette, 06400

The Hotel Le Majestic is instantly recognisable. Overlooking the Boulevard de la Croisette and the azure coloured waters of the French Riviera. Le Majestic is a brilliant white Art-Deco style hotel which houses 150 guest bedrooms and suites. The place for film stars to sleep. There are some 2500 photos of glittering guests. Each and every room at the Le Majestic is a masterpiece, but for the more discerning traveler there is the Christian Dior Penthouse. Styled in sumptuous shades of grey. No not Christian Grey, but Christian Dior Parisian haute couture interior design. With two bedrooms, a sea view 180º terrace and a dining table that can host up to 9 guests, the Christian Dior Penthouse is sure to impress even the most discerning VIP.

Le Majestic has several bars and restaurants on site. Beef bar Cannes, a contemporary and fun steak restaurant, is here. This also brings outside visitors to the hotel, so it is always a lively atmosphere. Ciro’s is the beach club with its bright orange cushions and terracotta pots, serves a selection of seafood. The Majestic bar reminds me of The American Bar at Hotel de Paris in Monaco with its illuminated bar, dark wood and gold leaf accents. One thing is certain, you will not be hungry at La Majestic.

Hotel Belle Rives, 33 Bd Edouard Baudoin, 06160 Antibes

Hotel Belle Rives is a beachfront hotel that offers panoramic views of Lérins Island and the Estérel mountains. Once the home of F. Scott Fitzgerald this unique and charming boutique hotel is magnifique. In part, the hotel was said to inspire The Great Gatsby. The 1920’s influence is evident throughout. A real hidden gem, the hotel does not seem to advertise. Instead its reputation since the 1920’s proceeds it. More like a private home than a hotel, Hotel Belle Rives feels so welcoming. With just 43 rooms it feels very special. The staff are fluent in English and every whim is catered to. You and your holiday companion can choose from an array of water sports or spa treatments during your stay. The Picasso museum is but a stones throw away as are many beautiful sea front restaurants. What is mind blowing is the price; compared to some of the other resorts along the Riviera this is a snip. From £200 – £650 depending on which time of year you visit.

Regent Carlton, 58 Bd de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes

The Grand Dame of Cannes. A super impressive, grandiose beachfront building housing the most luxurious rooms and suites. This sun-drenched hotel offers unrivaled luxury, charm and history to the most discerning of travelers. Situated directly on the Boulevard de la Croisette the Regent Carlton first opened its grand, gilded doors with a giant clock above them in 1911. A rich history, the hotel was repurposed as a hospital during the Second World War. Several facelifts later, the most recent being a multi-million-Euro revamp in 2023. This hotel is nothing short of spectacular. The opening party for the relaunch of the Regent included famous faces such as Naomi Campbell, Micheal Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones. The Regent has long been associated with film stars, royalty and celebrities. Alfred Hitchcock filmed “To Catch a Thief” starring Grace Kelly and Cary Grant at this very hotel. The Regent also appears in the video for Elton John’s 1983 hit “I’m Still Standing”

Once you arrive at the Regent, it is common practice for staff to give you a guided tour before checking you in within the comfort of your room. No standing at the reception fiddling around with passports and credit cards for esteemed Regent guests. If possible, opt for a sea view room. Words can not describe the beauty of the sparkling blue sea in this part of the world. Rooms are very white without being clinical. Crisp and clean. The 369 rooms include accommodations from a classic room to iconic suites. Additionally, the Regent offers 37 residences which range from 1 to 4 bedroom abodes. The regent boasts Le C Fitness and Spa to keep yourself in tip-top shape during your stay. By its own admission, the hotel promises to please the most demanding tastes with their four eateries. There is the Riviera restaurant, which is a Mediterranean brasserie. Jewell toned Ruya serving Anatolian dishes. Then we have Bar 58 which has a menu of bar snacks and carefully curated details. For afternoon tea and light bites, there is the elegant and polished Camellia Lounge. Of course, the hotel is also home to the famous Carlton Beach Club. Enjoy luxurious long lazy summer days here sipping cocktails and soaking up the sun.