Royal Riviera

Today there are a multitude of ways to see the Côte d’Azur, but the quintessential Belle Époque grand-hotel experience is alive and well at the Royal-Riviera in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Even when it opened in 1904 it was a somewhat eclectic blend of eras and styles, which means that although its most recent renovation introduced some modern elements, there’s no question of spoiling the historical atmosphere — the contrasts are only made richer, and the look more memorable.

Its rooms and suites are divided between the original building and the newer Villa Orangerie; many of the former have views out to sea, while the latter are more secluded, overlooking the swimming pool or the hotel’s Renaissance-style gardens from their balconies or terraces. And across all categories, the interior style is an era-spanning collage of old and new, effortlessly combining modern simplicity and classic Riviera grandeur.

The pool and gardens combine to create a lovely outdoor environment, and they’re augmented by the Royal-Riviera’s petite private beach, as well as a THALGO spa. Meanwhile the poolside Jasmin Grill serves Indian dishes from its tandoori oven alongside more typical Mediterranean fare; La Table du Royal, the hotel’s gastronomic restaurant, stays focused on locally sourced modern French classics.