The Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel

The salt water olympic-size pool is more glamourous then can be imaged. The spirits of beautiful starlets, royalty and the infamous are all nearby.

Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel

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Our readers know we have all kinds of love for this haven, one of the world’s most legendary and exclusive resorts, the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel. Is it because it has retained the quaint aura and romance of a by-gone era while being unquestionably modern and exceptionally chic or is it that it’s perched at the edge of the Mediterranean and set into the French Alps that cascade into the sea, the Monte Carlo Beach Hotel opened its doors in 1929 to a roaring success and now it’s time to plan that spring 2023 getaway to that Monte-Chic vacation or long weekend chill-out spot. No less than the legendary social maven Elsa Maxwell was entrusted to bring guests and visitors to the hotel by the administrator of the Société des Bains de Mer and high society followed her persuasion. Today Ms. Maxwell is honored with a gourmet restaurant, Elsa, which features delightful seasonally inspired cuisine. The stately salt-water Olympic-size pool, complete with a high diving board, is a romantic remnant of the original design. Today the pool is surrounded by mature palm trees that frame the view to the sea, while one of the Mediterranean’s most sought-after and lively lunch venues, Le Deck, overlooks the pool.

Traditionally opened only in the summer months the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel is now open from early spring to late fall, and while this picture-perfect hotel can be a marvelous base for exploring Monaco, to really understand what makes the Monte Carlo Beach Hotel so magical a visit in high season is a must. With just 40 rooms including 5 junior suites, 7 double suites, and 2 double suites, each decorated to convey the décor of the great ocean liners of the 1930s, this oasis is an intimate retreat just steps away from the busy Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Swimming Pool, and the exciting Sea Lounge Monte-Carlo.

Originally built in 1929, the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel was entirely renovated in 2009. The renovation revived the spirit of the 1930s with today’s technology and luxurious amenities. The moment you check into this Relais & Châteaux’s hotel the spirit of the Côte d’Azur, past and present, greet you with a warm welcome.

A more idyllic setting could not have been imagined for such a glamourous jewel. On the far, and wooded, point of the property is La Vigie restaurant, accessible by both land and sea.

Chef Benoît Witz at Elsa the Michelin-starred organic restaurant at the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel.

Of the many great activities at the Monte-Carlo Beach Resort enjoying a chilled bottle of Rose poolside or at the Beach Club is among the most enjoyable pastimes. The views are stunning, the staff is hyper-attentive, and needless to say, guests might even be tempted to partake in some casual people watching. Jet-skiing and other water sports are also available, and one of the best ways to see Monaco is from the water. The exceptional Spa du Monte-Carlo features treatments and programs by La Prairie and Clinica by Ivo Pitanguy and it a perfect place for a respite after a day spent in the warm sun. Rounding out the trio of exceptional restaurants at the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel is waterside La Vigie. Surrounded by lush greenery and perched at the point of a high cove that jets into the Mediterranean, La Vigie’s setting is divine with unparalleled views of Monaco and the sea.

Dining at any of the venues is an exquisite treat. During our stay, the excellent cuisine managed to overshadow the splendid views, especially at our highly memorable sunset dinner at Elsa on the terrace. Since April 2012 outgoing and dynamic Chef Paolo Sari has taken over the kitchens at this great Hotel and his innovative market/seasonal cuisine is exceptional. Trained in Italy, Cambridge University, and n Los Angles, Paolo Sari has held several high-level culinary positions in some of the most fabulous places in the world.

Terrace dining at Elsa

Terrace dining at Elsa, overlooking Monaco and the Mediterranean.

The seaside French Modern inspired decor in the guest rooms and suites is opulently chic and elegantly refined.

Definitely Monte-Carlo

While the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel is exclusive you do not have to be a royal or a CEO to be treated like one, everyone is a VIP and made to feel like one when they stay at this special hillside hideaway, The Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel. Story By Ken Panton. Photography David Lewis Taylor and Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel.