HÔTEL DE PARIS MONTE-CARLO
An Incomparable Five Star Monaco Experience
Staying true to its unique DNA and heritage, the internationally-renowned Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo recently underwent a major renovation to its premises, reinstating its mark as the number one destination to stay whilst in the city. Reopening in stages six months ago, the Hôtel de Paris continues to present an incomparable 5-star Monte-Carlo experience.
At Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, everything one needs is found in a single location. It is more than iconic, opened in 1863 as part of the development of Monaco by the Société des Bains de Mer under the auspices of Charles III of Monaco, the hotel is an institution. A popular shooting location for photographer Helmut Newton, the hotel has also been featured in two James Bond films. It’s reputation is known far and wide.
THE SPA
In the establishment lies four restaurants (with Le Louis XV, the Alain Ducasse Restaurant impressively holding three Michelin stars) and a private walkway to the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo wellness and fitness centre. The Thermes holds one of the largest indoor pools in Europe, in addition to a spa, sauna, outdoor jacuzzi and state-of-the-art treatment facilities.
THE LOCATION
Situated directly across from Monte-Carlo Casino, the Opéra Garnier and Café de Paris just across the main square, Place du Casino, the area is alive with the energy of international visitors there for business or pleasure. Ideal for an afternoon spent observing the diverse array of guests and expensive luxury cars which are equally as interesting, the Place du Casino acts as a central point for the city and the hotel is at the heart of it. Anish Kapoor’s sculpture The Sky Mirror can be seen from all angles, poetically reflecting the surrounding beauty of the square. For those who have not yet visited, it is indeed a small area, and a peaceful walkway can be found just metres away from the hotel, where the Cote d’Azur’s fresh sea air can revitalise any weary traveller. The Grimaldo Forum, where the Art Monte-Carlo resides, is a five-minute walk away from the square, making the hotel’s location even more ideal.
DESIGN
Instantly incomparable for multiple reasons, the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo is extremely tasteful in design. Recently undoing a major renovation, the hotel is flawless, so our timing couldn’t have been better. Gold is a recurring central theme in the interior design, but its properties pleasantly reflect light throughout the hotel. Art Deco details are celebrated, found in the breath-taking Empire Ballroom surrounded by marble and chandeliers.
HOSPITALITY
The hotel holds 99 rooms, each with varying views (seafront, patio, casino) and all fitted with the most efficient and modern amenities available on the market. There was nothing we could fault with the room interiors. Super fast wifi is standard throughout, and the hotel offers more than is expected. The hospitality team genuinely seem to love their work here, and this can be seen and felt all the way from the hotel cleaning staff to senior management.
DINING
The Louis XV restaurant, run by chefs Dominique Lory and Alain Ducasse is three-Michelin starred for a reason. A modern and contemporary menu highlights the best of the Mediterranean, the colours and taste a feast for the senses.
Lunch at Le Grill on the terrace of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo was a highlight of our stay at the hotel. Also Michelin-starred, the restaurant is run by Chef Franck Cerutti who has been working with the hotel for over 23 years. His expertise is next to none, with his passion for his work obvious as he greeted our table at lunch. The vanilla, chocolate and raspberry soufflé a signature desert at Le Grill is not to miss. A speciality since the Belle Epoque, you won’t find a better soufflé in the world, from presentation to taste. Guaranteed. Mouthfuls of lightweight cloud puff cannot be beat, especially when digested on the top floor of the hotel overlooking the city below.
Mediterranean brasserie Ômer is found on the garden level of the new Rotonde wing. Also overseen by Alain Ducasse together with French chef Patrick Laine, the restaurant overlooks the hotel’s lush gardens designed by Jean Mus. An oasis waits outside for guests, where morning breakfast can be had amongst flora on the patio.
The hotel’s fourth restaurant overlooks the vibrant Place du Casino. The Salle Empire restaurant is ideal for special events and soaking in the social atmosphere of the hotel’s location.
Not to forget is the Le Bar Américain also in the hotel. Recently receiving the The Best Hotel Bar 2019 award by the European Hotel Awards, the bar is famous for its great live music and innovative cocktails. Cigars, whiskey, champagne, everything is available here…
FINAL VERDICT
Unmatched hospitality with a genuine smile, the legendary Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo is renowned for a reason, and it is indeed well-deserving of 6-stars or more. We can’t wait to return.
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Place du Casino,
98000 Monaco
#Champ_MonteCarlo
Images as credited | Written by Editor-in-Chief Monique Kawecki