From poker and roulette to baccarat and craps, there are a plethora of high-stakes casino games that are beloved of the world’s high-rollers – but few hold quite the same allure as blackjack. This classic card game is thought to have originated in French casinos in around the year 1700, but since then, it has gone on to become one of the most popular gambling-based pursuits of all time, and is played in casinos across Europe, the Americas, Asia and beyond.
The world’s whales aren’t put off visiting some of the most opulent gambling halls by something as minor as geography, and are often more than happy to jump on a first class flight or charter a private jet to get them to the most sought-after luxury casinos in the world. The rich and famous can often be seen playing a game or two of blackjack at some of these extravagant destinations, and here, we take a look at the ones they favour.
The Monte Carlo Casino, Monaco
There are few places as glamorous as the Principality of Monaco, a globally renowned playground for the rich and famous where opulence rules in every way. Home to royalty and many a famous name, it is also where you’ll find the truly lavish Casino Monte Carlo, which attracts a stream of well-heeled visitors to its hallowed halls who come to play their favourite casino games – blackjack included – in one of the most sophisticated settings anywhere.
Casino Monte Carlo is known for its beautiful Beaux-Arts architecture, stunning crystal chandeliers, ornate gilded mirrors and intricate frescoes, and sets the scene for an unforgettable evening of high-stakes gambling, so its little wonder it’s a top choice amongst the world’s biggest high-rollers. Thanks to its privileged destination on the French Riviera, it offers the perfect opportunity to combine a sun-soaked summer getaway with as much blackjack as you can squeeze into the time you have in its VIP private gaming salons.
The Bellagio, Las Vegas, USA
The Las Vegas Strip needs no introduction, and is home to one of the biggest concentrations of luxury casinos in the world. But if there’s one particular establishment that stands out, it’s the iconic Bellagio – a mega resort with a huge casino featuring a vast array of table games and slots, as well as Michelin-starred dining options and even its own designer shopping arcade.
Big-spending blackjack fans from everywhere flock to The Bellagio each and every year to play amongst other whales in its private gaming rooms, which offer impeccable personalised service whilst they play their hands and place eye-watering wagers in pursuit of the jackpot. At the high-limit blackjack tables, minimum bets start in the thousands of dollars, which makes play here not for the faint hearted.
The casino is famous for its elegant design and the iconic dancing fountains that welcome guests outside as they arrive, and if you look closely you can often spot Hollywood stars and other celebrity A-listers enjoying a night of extravagance and excess inside.
Casinò di Venezia, Venice, Italy
As the world’s oldest casino, Casinò di Venezia in Venice is steeped in traditional Italian charm and should be in prime position on the bucket lists of casino enthusiasts across the globe. Its awe-inspiring location on Venice’s Grand Canal provides a setting like no other, and the venue has been attracting aristocrats and affluent travellers into its halls since the 1600s. Awash with history, it remains a favoured gambling destination for high-rollers, with high-stakes gameplay and old world glamour combining to offer an experience like no other.
The casino’s blackjack tables are set in ornately decorated rooms adorned with glittering chandeliers and intricate frescoes, with period furnishings adding the finishing touch and whisking you back in time despite the thoroughly modern amenities and timely service. When it comes to historic grandeur, this place has got it by the bucket load, but it certainly knows how to cater to a contemporary crowd and keep up with the evolving demands of the world’s wealthiest blackjack players.
Wynn Macau, Macau, China
If you’re familiar with the famous Wynn Las Vegas then you’ll be no stranger to the opulence of the Wynn Macau, which is located in what is often now referred to as the ‘New Gambling Capital of the World.’ The jury is still out on whether Macau – a special administrative region of China – can ever truly dethrone Sin City, but it has already dramatically outperformed it in terms of annual gambling revenue. And The Wynn Macau is the jewel in its crown as well as the undisputed top spot for high-rollers from across Asia and beyond.
The casino’s high-limit blackjack tables, which can be found in its exclusive VIP areas, are of course, a major draw. Here, players can enjoy edge-of-their-seat gambling action amongst other high-stakes players in a lavish and private setting – and with Michelin-starred restaurants, high-end shopping, and a luxury spa all on site for guests at the resort to take advantage of, it’s a place that really does have it all.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
