Welcome to exquisite Monaco, dazzling jewel of the French Riviera. Seeking the ultimate luxe getaway? We’ve got just the experiences for you. Let’s start at the world renowned Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, located right on the famous Place du Casino.
Built in 1864 by billionaire François Blanc, just as Monte-Carlo was beginning to take shape (thanks to support from Charles III and Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer), the international elite rushed in to play and stay – Kings, Royalty and Heads of State. The Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo continues to be a fave of illustrious VIP jetsetters worldwide.
We’ll let Thierry-Wilfrid “Will” Francoise, Luxury Travel Advisor from Embark Beyond, lead the way. He’s on the way to meet up with his most elegant friends … and what a perfect place to shine. In 1909, it adopted the architectural style of La Belle Époque, resulting in some of the most spectacular suites in the French Riviera. A full four-year renovation in 2019 brought classic beauty into the modern era.
The first friend Will encounters is fellow Luxury Travel Advisor, Laura Worth, in the Princess Grace Diamond Suite. Partying in the most exclusive and glamorous setting on the French Riviera, inspired by the timeless elegance and delicate refinement of Princess Grace of Monaco, is only for those with the most exceptional taste – which these two absolutely have.
Just then Sylvia Silva, Managing Director of Embark Beyond Brasil, descends the stairs of the 910 sq.m. suite spread across two floors, including the jaw-dropping outdoor space. Sylvia says one of her favorite parts of the suite is the sublime view of the Mediterranean sea and the Prince’s Palace from its terrace.
Next, Will reconnects with Carole-Anne Hughs Wood, Embark Beyond’s Director of Marketing. She says one of her favorite parts of the suite is the elegant vanity and luxurious closet that overlooks the terrace with views of the world-famous marina. As well as the collection of the Princess’s favorite books, a ‘Princess Grace’ rose, and the original photos of her arrival in Monaco. There’s even an herbarium Princess Grace collected herself. Reading the Princess’ favorite quotes as you gaze out on the hypnotic blue sea was another fantastic treat.
Finally the Embark Beyond family visiting Monaco is reunited to discuss …what’s next?! Sylvia suggests the private wine cellar to celebrate having so many great minds in the same place at the same time. Home to the world’s largest hotel wine cellar, boasting over 350, 000 bottles, the team can’t think of a better idea.
Our next stop is the Prince Rainier III suite, also known as the rooftop villa, because the palatial suite overlooks the rooftops of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, and then gazes out to sea. The most extravagant suite in the hotel, the interior design is the perfect blend of contemporary and classic, warm tones with impeccable touches of precious metals. It’s a dreamy atmosphere that invites you to relish in the princely experience.
We love feeling the spark and romance of the princely family. Home to so many intimate moments between Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace of Monaco, like their reception dinner, when the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo was charged with making the couple’s cake or their 20th wedding anniversary, hosted in the hotel’s grandiose wine cellars.
After delighting in the storied history of this fantastic location, the Embark Beyond family visits the Michelin star awarded restaurant, Le Grill, one of the most elegant and lively venues in the Principality of Monaco. This time Laura leads the way. In the talented hands of executive chef Dominique Lory and complemented with one of the best wine selections in the world, they revel in breath-taking views of the Mediterranean as they eat.
To conclude their time in Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Carole-Anne suggests that they enjoy a cocktail in Bar Américain. 1920s-style atmosphere and plush interiors make this bar the most glamorous around – amber and burgundy silk, rich buttery leather, a marble floor mosaic and deep-pile rugs. Named Best Hotel Bar of the Year by European Hotel Awards, one of our favorite features are the personal cigar boxes kept in the humidor and its wide variety of live jazz, swing, blues, soul and French music performances.
Finally the Embark Family arrives at the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, located in the heart of Monte-Carlo, just a few steps away from Place du Casino. Built at the dawn of the 20th Century by the Monegasque architect Jean Marquet, the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo is an historic monument. Particularly spectacular is the sublime Eiffel cupola in the winter garden, designed by the uncontested master of metallic architecture, Gustave Eiffel.
The Embark Family explores the magnificent Salle Belle Epoque, which is registered as part of Monaco’s architectural heritage, truly emblematic of the character and opulence of the establishment. The ceiling was created by Prix de Rome and 1889 Universal Exposition Gold Metallist, Gabriel Ferrier, and continues to be one of the most incredible works of art in existence.
We hate to go, but love to leave on such a high-note. We’ll let the amazing Embark Beyond family fill us in on the rest of their glitz and glam getaway soon. À plus tard!