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Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc

Antibes

Sun-kissed privacy on the French Riviera

The location: In the heart of the French Riviera. At this starry retreat, the vibe riffs on classical luxury – it’s a glittering, château-style hotel that perches on basalt rocks above the deep blue sea and promises a retro, romantic stay.

Picturesque grounds: Tucked into 22 acres of pine groves, the original château was built by the proprietor of best-selling French newspaper Le Figaro and became a hotel in the 1880s. Swept up in the expansion of the Côte d’Azur scene, it became a hangout for the chic Riviera set. Old school glamour runs deep; it’s said the hotel provided inspiration for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Tender is the Night and the guestbook counts Kennedys and Churchills among its signatures.

What’s the draw? Languid, old-school elegance and intense privacy. Those hiding from paparazzi enjoy the discrete simplicity of the hotel’s saltwater infinity pool that was carved from the basalt rock at the base of the plot in 1914. Likewise, its sea-facing restaurants provide cosseted intimacy, serving an unpretentious selection of summer dishes, such as lobster vol-au-vent and Grenobloise-style sole, alongside timeless classics, like Steak Diane. Lunches at the Bar-Grill are served by Breton-stripe-wearing staff. For drinks, head to any of its four bars for a sun-soaked sip.

What about the rooms? Expect antique furnishings, plenty of gilding and wide windows offering glimpses of the yachts out yonder. There’s summery chintz all around and bathrooms are traditional and stacked with marble. The Château Suites showcase a more conventional experience than the contemporary Eden-Roc offering. For all-out opulence, book one of the villas hidden between the pines. They come replete with a private pool and a personal butler service.

Arriving in style: The best way to get to Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc is by sea on a private tender, stepping from a teak speedboat deck into the retro sea pool, à la Hollywood’s finest. Ask the concierge for details.

Key Information

• Rooms: 111
• Starting Rate: $1650
• Dining: Louroc Restaurant
• Drinking: Eden-Roc Bar
• At the Hotel: Swimming pool(s), seaside cabanas, gardens, spa/wellness centre, fitness centre, family friendly
• 167-165 Bd J. F. Kennedy, 06160 Antibes, France
• +33 4 93 61 39 01
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