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Wealthy Russians have been frequenting the Cote d’Azur since the days of the tsars. This grand Russian-built villa, established in 1899 on a private peninsula 10 minutes from Monaco, became a favourite jet-set hideaway in the 1960s.
Extensively remodelled in 2003, it’s now a modern boutique hotel with just 18 rooms, including sprawling Presidential suites complete with private terraces.
The setting is just as enchanting, surrounded by the sea, views and century-old trees, with a spectacular pool terrace jutting out over the headland, filling your view with shimmering ocean. The gym and a full-service spa are both right by the water, adding to the luxurious atmosphere.
You do need a car, as it’s out of town and not well connected by public transport – many guests choose to helicopter in (which the hotel can arrange). Don’t miss the spectacular views from hilltop Eze, just up the road. Book a meal in the hotel restaurant, too – the setting is gorgeous and the produce comes from the hotel’s own vegetable garden.
Stay here for old-fashioned glamour, truly magical views, a private beach and a gorgeous infinity pool.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Monaco, Cote d'Azur, France[4.3 miles]
The world’s most prestigious automobile races, with a track winding through the winding streets of this billionaires’ playground. Monaco is the height of Formula One glamour.
Best for ages: 13+ | £50 | 4 days
Monaco, Cote d'Azur, France[4.3 miles]
Founded in 1906 by Prince Albert I, Monaco’s Musee Oceanographique is one of the oldest scientific marine institutes anywhere. Spectacular aquariums and treasures from ocean voyages, located in a remarkable wedding-cake building cascading over cliffs.
Best for ages: 4+ | £12
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Cote d'Azur, France[4.4 miles]
A remarkable fantasy villa, complete with exquisite exotic gardens, built in 1912 by the flamboyant art collector Baroness Beatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild to house her fabulous collection of 18th-century art and furniture.
Best for ages: 18+ | £13
Monaco, Cote d'Azur, France[4.9 miles]
The world’s most famous and prestigious casino – in one of the world’s casino capitals – oozes glamour, history, and class.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Monaco , Cote d'Azur, France[1.4 miles]
A stunning white sand and pebble beach under pale golden cliffs just west of Monaco. Accessed by steep steps, this shallow cove is both glamorous and exclusive. Mala has two public areas and two chic beach clubs: Eden Plage and the Reserve de Mala – both romantic at sunset, serving cocktails by candlelight and playing music after dark.
Best for ages: Any | Free
Monaco, Cote d'Azur, France[3.5 miles]
If it all gets too much, head to the stunning 75-year-old Jardin Exotique, with its surreal collection of cacti, a stalactite Observatory Cave inhabited 250,000 years ago, and an anthropology museum. Open Tuesday to Saturday. Guided tours on Saturdya by appointment.
Best for ages: 8+ | £6
Nice, Cote d'Azur, France[3.6 miles]
Built in 1908 in an ancient-Greek-style, this villa in a ravishing seaside garden setting features replica 2nd-century AD interiors typical of the island of Delos. The project of two scholars obsessed with the period.
Best for ages: 18+ | £8
La Turbie, Cote d'Azur, France[3.7 miles]
High above Monaco, Emperor Augustus erected a 147ft monument in the 1st century BC to celebrate his victories over the Ligurian tribes. In spite of damage over the centuries, it is still a remarkable sight, with breathtaking views.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
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