Monaco is a unique destination along the French Riviera that exudes opulence at every turn, from the super luxurious yachts docked up in the harbour to the magnificent hotels atop the hill. Anyone who has visited will know just how lavish the spotless principality is, and that filters through to its restaurants, designer stores, public spaces and the activities that can be undertaken here, too.
Here, we take a look at how Monaco is still Europe’s leading luxury destination.
Luxury hotels in Monte-Carlo
When in Monaco you’ll want to taste true luxury at its most magnificent, and one of the best ways to do this is to check into one of the Diamond suites of the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer. All of the luxury hotels in Monte-Carlo feature standout suites, the real cream of the crop, and these are known as Diamond Suites.
The Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, famous worldwide as it is located on the Place du Casino, where the Casino de Monte-Carlo can also be found, boasts the Princess Grace suite. Created in the former American actress and later the Princess consort of Monaco’s honour, the suite embodies her refinement and includes some of her favourite poems and books within its décor. Sitting on two floors and covering some 1,000 square metres, visitors will be wowed the moment they step onto the terrace and spot the 180-degree views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, offers the Diamond Suite Sea View and is the perfect retreat for honeymooners or those seeking a romantic setting. Boasting a Jacuzzi, with décor dressed in light purples and grey, the terrace will impress with its views including the Prince’s Palace and the Old City.
The Diamond Suite Sunshine, at the Monte-Carlo Beach, is a favourite for those who come to Monaco to enjoy its sunny climate. This top-level suite features a 100sq.m terrace with a Jacuzzi, and plush surroundings. In addition to this there will be a limousine available for use, so if you fancy heading out into town, you can rest assured that you’ll be arriving in style.
Finally, the Diamond Suite Eleven Sea View, at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort, is an elegant offering boasting luxurious interiors with marble, eucalyptus wood, natural stone and mosaic materials. The 11th-floor suite is accessed via your own private lift and there are two bedrooms and a spacious lounge/dining room. Once you’ve arrived, you won’t want to leave.
Luxury restaurants
Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse
Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse at the Hôtel de Paris is the ultimate restaurant in Monaco. With three Michelin Stars under its belt, proving that it’s worth travelling some distance for, this restaurant will wow with its modern gastronomy. Expect fresh fruits and vegetables from small farmers nearby and fresh fish and meat, as well. The cuisine is Mediterranean and light and, paired with the best wine as suggested from head sommelier Maxime Pastor, diners will be blown away by this culinary experience.
The Blue Bay
If you’re looking to taste food that is as exquisite as it is creative, the Blue Bay at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort is where you should dine. Chef Marcel Ravin has combined Caribbean and Mediterranean flavours to create divine food that has been awarded two Michelin Stars. Moreover, guests can eat these delightful dishes outside on a terrace when the sun shines and enjoy panoramic views of the sea as they dine.
High-end activities
In addition to great food and splendid places to reside, there are plenty of ways to stay occupied during a trip to Monaco and expect them to be elevated to a new level of luxury, too.
The shopping at Promenade Monte-Carlo will please anyone with luxurious tastes. If you are looking for the ultimate in jewellery, you can stop by Cartier, Chanel or Bulgari and for watches specialists, head to Audemars Piguet, Boucheron or Rolex. If it is clothes that you are looking for, Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen and Boghossian are some of the big names gracing the store fronts here, but there are many more places to splash the cash here.
There are also the famed casinos, for visitors only; a selection of restful gardens to enjoy some quiet time among plants and statues; the Monaco Oceanographic Museum, built into a cliff; and the Formula One Grand Prix that takes place here in spring is one of the most, if not the most, iconic track of the season.
