With far-reaching views of the spectacular coastline and modernist aesthetic, this is the cultural cognoscenti’s new favourite.
Owned and developed by the Maybourne Hotel Group, which includes Claridges and The Connaught, the Maybourne Riviera was conceived to become one of the great hotels of the world. No expense has been spared in redeveloping this modernist gem, which was once the Old Vista Palace in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.
Panoramic views of the soul-stirring coastline, take in both Italy to the west and Monaco to the east, giving the hotel an unbeatable and enviable location. In a region rich in artistic and cultural heritage, local artists and artisans were used to create bespoke art, glassware, ceramics, and furnishings. The cavernous lobby sets the tone, with a monumental Louise Bourgeios sculpture of an entwined couple, Bibendum chairs by Eileen Gray and lacquered screens and lithographs by Le Corbusier.
Described as ‘strikingly modernist,’ the Maybourne faces directly into the sun, making the most of the magnetic light which ignites the swell and colours of the Mediterranean to such glorious effect.
There are 69 rooms and suites, many with private plunge pools and all displaying the same uncluttered and minimal vibe of the public spaces. All accommodation sleeps up to three guests and includes a terrace with extensive sea views, freestanding marble tubs with sea view, Dyson hairdryers and premium linens. Choose from entry level Corniche Rooms, Panoramic Rooms which include a seating area, Pool Suites with infinity pools or splash out on the signature Grand Azur Suite to experience apartment-style living Riviera style.
Home to four restaurants, the Maybourne is set to become a dining destination, under the design direction of one of the world’s greatest chefs, the three Michelin-starred Mauro Colagreco. Head to the top floor Ceto restaurant, for a menu inspired by the sea. A highlight for this chef is the state-of-the-art cold chamber. Lined with Himalayan salts, the chamber means fish can be matured for up to two months, resulting in sensational flavours.
Guests can also enjoy Colagreco’s reimagined Mediterranean classics in the Riviera Playa Restaurant or book a table at the Riviera for French Italian flavours. The Pool Bar & Terrace serves black truffle pizza and lobster rolls for lunch, and Le Piano Bar, with its floor-to-ceiling windows makes a wonderful setting for an aperitif or night cap.
Guests enjoy access to Riviera Playa, a chic beach club just steps from the sea. Onsite, the stunning infinity pool creates a mirage-like effect merging seamlessly into the sea and the sky. There are plans for a world-class spa, but until it opens in-room treatments are available.
Guests can stroll along the cobbled streets of the medieval village of Roquebrune, taking in the 10th century castle – one of the oldest in France and gazing at the 2,000-year-old olive tree. Or take Promenade Le Corbusier, the coastal pathway from the village to Menton and walk in the architect’s steps. Further afield, Monaco and the artistic heritage of the Côte d’Azur offer ample scope for discovery and exploration.