In a spectacular event on the French Riviera, Sofia Richie and music executive Elliot Grainge recently tied the knot. The star-studded affair certainly had the X factor, with all the glitz and glamour imaginable, but the highlight was undoubtedly the breathtaking location, Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc.

The History

Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc has a captivating history that sets it apart from other hotels. Originally constructed in 1869 under the name Villa Soleil, it aimed to provide a sanctuary for uninspired writers. As time went on, it transformed into the renowned Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, playing a pivotal role in establishing the French Riviera as a sought-after summer getaway. Esteemed authors of the Lost Generation like Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald were frequent visitors, with Fitzgerald immortalising it as Hôtel des Etrangers in his novel Tender Is the Night.

Throughout the years, this extraordinary hotel has been a magnet for notable individuals, including royalty, politicians, celebrities, and artists. Renowned artist Marc Chagall found inspiration by the saltwater infinity pool, while Pablo Picasso contributed his artistic touch to the menus. More recent guests include Kourtney Kardashian, Emily Ratajkowski, Bella Hadid, and Ryan Gosling, among many others. The hotel exudes a vibrant cultural ambiance, with its walls echoing stories of its glamorous visitors.

The Property

From the moment you pass through the entrance gate and step onto the premises, a sensation similar to being in a film engulfs you. In keeping with its Great Gatsby era, the hotel has been owned by only two families, preserving its timeless essence. Nestled amidst 22 acres of ancient pine forests adorned with rose gardens, guests are greeted with classic, elegant rooms featuring French chintz, oil paintings, opulent mirrors, exquisite mahogany desks, and elegant pale marble bathrooms. Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc also offers a dozen rooms that are specially adapted. However, it's important to note that there is no sandy beach and the walk into town is less picturesque. Nonetheless, taxis are readily available, and the entirety of the magnificent Côte d'Azur awaits just beyond its doorstep.

Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with complimentary delights like exquisite red roses and delicious chocolates. And if you’re there in time for a breathtaking sunset, immerse yourself in pure bliss. The next morning, breakfast is a noteworthy culinary experience, expertly crafted with both buffet and à la carte options. Spend time basking on the terrace, relaxing in the pool, and indulging in a delicious lunch. Take a pleasant hour-long break in the shade, savouring a refreshing drink, alongside a tasty risotto.

Dining & Mingling

The wide array of dining experiences includes the simple Eden-Roc Grill, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. Guests can enjoy options like steak, jumbo prawns, octopus, or Niçoise salad, and a variety of risottos while enjoying the panoramic views. With tables facing the Lérins Islands, the enchanting Eden-Roc Restaurant, decked with blue and coral tones, serves executive chef Arnaud Poëtte's classics. Try the seabass and basil dish, along with courgette risotto, bouillabaisse, leg of lamb, and great fruit tarts. Also, indulging in a secluded waterfront cabana from the 1930s for lunch elevates the experience to a greater level, with enjoyable offerings like small purple artichokes and shimmering gilthead bream. Guests then go to Bar Bellini for its signature peach beverage; unquestionably, this is the perfect location on the renowned Côte d'Azur. Additionally, guests can visit the Eden-Roc Lounge, decorated with a hand-painted fresco by artist Agnès Sandahl, or take advantage of the rooftop Eden-Roc Champagne Lounge’s fresh sushi on the rocks and drinks.

The Amenities

Immerse yourself in the scented landscape, where captivating wisteria-covered pergolas, Aleppo pines, cypresses, cedars, and carob trees await. Charming cabanas offer mesmerising views of rocky creeks. Indulge in the serene Spa Eden-Roc's massage gazebo or opt for a La Prairie caviar facial in a spa cabana. Alternatively, pamper yourself with rejuvenating Bamford botanical body treatments.

The new water sports centre arranges activities like jetskiing, snorkelling, and island boat trips. Then again, rub shoulders with the stars in the saltwater infinity pool or embrace Gatsby-esque dreams while on the trapeze suspended above the sea.

With the option to cause mayhem in a remote cabana or play tennis with renowned trainers, this upscale location is popular with young aristocrats. And that's before treasure hunts and team activities, kayaking and swimming lessons. The Juice and Ice Cream Bar, a nostalgic establishment for sweet delicacies created by a pastry chef who makes two tonnes of chocolate a year, is the cherry on top.

Things To Do

Nearby, you can explore the former residence of Impressionist painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir in Cagnes-sur-Mer, surrounded by olive and citrus groves. Plus, the Grimaldi Castle houses Picasso's remarkable ceramics collection close by. Nature enthusiasts can embark on exhilarating hikes in Mercantour National Park, renowned for its mountains, lakes, and gorges. Meanwhile, those seeking sun and water can indulge in refreshing swims and relaxing moments along the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.

Boulevard J. F. Kennedy, CS 10029, 06605 Antibes Cedex, France

Standard Room: from $1,153-$4,187 (USD), Suite: from $2,700-$5,400 (USD)

+33 4 93 61 39 01, reservations.hdcer@oetkercollection.com

Discover more about Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc

hotel-du-cap-eden-rock