Surrounded by stunning views of the Mediterranean, private beaches, lush gardens, and one of the most recognisable tennis courts in the world, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the luxurious charm of the French Riviera.
Frequented by celebrities from Harrison Ford to Kendall Jenner, the hotel maintains a standard that many others envy. Here’s a bit about what to expect if you’re lucky enough to visit.
Entrance Flair and a Rich History
Upon entering the lobby, you’ll be greeted by an impressive glass lift and a sweeping staircase. Staff members promptly offer you a pink concoction that hints at roses or watermelon. Through the revolving door, you’ll find the famous Grand Promenade, leading you to the mediterranean sea. This area discreetly houses three restaurants, six bars, the Pavilion suites, and the poolside area.
Established as a winter hotel, Hotel du Cap played a vital role during the Great War, serving as a makeshift hospital. Post-war transformations included the creation of a swimming pool and the elevation of Eden-Roc from a tearoom to a luxurious destination. The hotel’s fame soared in 1923 when the Scott-Fitzgeralds, along with their friends Gerald and Sara Murphy, spent a summer here. Coco Chanel, Picasso, and many other notable figures have graced its premises, making it a symbol of chic Riviera life. Since 1969, it has been part of the prestigious German Oetker Collection, maintaining its legacy of luxury and old-fashioned manners.
Rooms and Dining Experience
Expect old-fashioned comfort with a touch of modernity. Rooms offer views of the avenue leading to the sea or the newly renovated Eden-Roc Pavilion suites, ideal for multi-generational families. Hollywood stars often prefer the rooms with views of the bay, close to Cannes. Vases filled with roses from the hotel’s historic garden and modern amenities like Dyson hairdryers enhance the vintage vibe. Each room features metal keys instead of plastic cards, and guests are reminded to reserve bathrobes for indoor use only.
The hotel boasts a variety of dining experiences. At Eden-Roc Lounge, enjoy a sunset drink while feeling like you’re on a luxury yacht. The Bar La Rotonde offers a relaxing atmosphere with piano music, perfect for sipping an Aviator cocktail. The Eden-Roc Grill serves classic French cuisine with occasional international twists, and blankets are provided for cooler evenings. Giovanni’s, an al fresco Italian restaurant, offers casual dining, while the Michelin-starred Louroc presents exquisite Provençal flavors enhanced by the best of bay views.
Service Standards
Under the guidance of Managing Director Philippe Perd, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc has perfected the art of hospitality with a program called “Palace Attitudes.” All staff, whether seasonal or long-term, must have an attentive and friendly manner. The staff’s dedication is evident in their uniforms, from poolside striped t-shirts to pristine doormen’s jackets. The story of a guest’s request for a specific tart from St. Tropez, fulfilled by a chartered helicopter, perfectly shows the lengths to which the staff go to ensure guest satisfaction.
A mix of high-end visitors, from day-trippers to long-term guests, frequent the hotel. During the Cannes Festival, Hollywood stars are a common sight. With over eighty percent of guests being return visitors, the hotel maintains a formal dress code, with guests dressing lavishly for dinner.
While there are a few nearby coves, the road to town is not pedestrian-friendly. A taxi ride to the medieval town of Saint Paul-de-Vence or the Chappelle du Rosaire in Vence is recommended. However, the hotel’s grounds offer enough in itself to make exploring unnecessary.
The spa, designed in collaboration with Dior, features a unique tiger-rich toile de jouy pattern on everything from pyjamas to cushions. Treatments include the Dior Prestige High-Precision facial, body massages, an infra-red sauna, LED light mask treatment, sauna, hammam, and outdoor massages in pine-scented air. The fitness center is well-equipped, and several scenic clay tennis courts are available, with the central court being one of the most beautiful tennis courts in the world.
The 32 cabanas, built in the 1930s, provide a private and exclusive experience. Each cabana has dedicated staff, and guests enjoy the camaraderie of a club within a club. The most sought-after cabana is 506. A peach Bellini upon arrival sets the tone for a relaxing stay, with the option to brave a dive into the sea from the rocks, reminiscent of Zelda Fitzgerald.
The hotel’s walls have witnessed countless romances and notable events. From Rita Hayworth and Aly Khan’s blossoming love to Marlene Dietrich’s affair with Joseph P. Kennedy, the hotel has been a backdrop for many historical moments. Its unofficial slogan, “please, never change,” reflects the desire of guests to preserve its timelessness.
While the hotel has modern amenities like well-appointed minibars and marble bathrooms, it retains its historical essence with heavy, ornate keys and French chintz decor. Changes are made with such care that they go unnoticed, maintaining the hotel’s unique character.