Gulf Insider’s Charlie Cooksey spends a weekend at the breathtaking Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat, a Four Seasons Hotel in Nice, France.
It’s easy to claim that a hotel is synonymous with luxury, yet visiting a 5-star hotel in person and being shown a luxury accommodation is quite another. The Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat does not disappoint; from its palatial-like exterior and interior to the staff that recalls everyone by name, this hotel has earned its five stars.
The Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat is about 20 minutes by car from the city center of Nice, and the hotel is rich in history. It was initially built in 1908 and continually added to until World War I. It became a temporary war hospital. In the early 1930s, it once again shifted to a glamorous hotel. After changing hands for a few years starting in the 60s, it eventually became a Four Seasons Hotel in 2015. This landmark hotel residing in the French Rivera boasts incredible views of the Mediterranean Sea and proximity to Paloma Beach and various high-end outlet shops.
The glamour and sophistication of the Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat have brought various celebrities and famous icons into its rooms, from Charlie Chaplin to Winston Churchill and Elizabeth Taylor. One look at the photos that span the wall on the stairwell, and you’ll see many celebrities have stayed at this property. Even the classic elevator that runs between the staircase is a beautiful feature – although being a creature of habit, I would avoid the elevator and run up and down the staircase.
After arriving for my weekend stay in March, I was greeted by cooler weather in the mornings and evenings. During the days, the cool fresh air provided a refreshing getaway from the Gulf and surrounded by the 17 acres garden greenery. This hotel provides a traditional luxury stay in the French Rivera.
Right after check-in, I was able to rest with a cup of English breakfast tea in the naturally lit café in the lobby. As a bellboy took my luggage up to my room, I was able to sit and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the French Riviera and the Mediterranean Sea.
After that, it was time to head up to my room. Once inside, I was rewarded with more incredible views and a cozy environment. The décor is understated yet elegant, providing a luxurious feeling. Each room includes a mini-bar, a marble bathroom with plush bathrobes, and flat-screen TVs. My room included a terrace to enjoy the views better.
I’ve visited and stayed across the world including New York Downtown, Hampshire England, Jumeirah Dubai, Bahrain Bay and many others, I’ve noticed a few things always stay the same. The Four Seasons properties all offer ultra-comfortable beds and great hospitality and service. As expected, the beds at Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat did not disappoint, nor did the service.
Each morning, I enjoyed my breakfasts. The vast breakfast spread features a large buffet selection with freshly baked bread and warm croissants. You can choose between solely enjoying the buffet or including a-la-carte items for your meal. With many French breakfast items, you can expect your diet to go right out the door, thanks to those delicious croissants. I found that eggs benedict with salmon was the best way for me to start my day.
As evidence of the excellent service, Safa, a friendly French Moroccan waitress, personally greeted me each morning a La Véranda Restaurant. The views of the lush gardens and the nearby sea only added to my excellent breakfast experience.
During my last breakfast at the hotel, Francois Regis Simon, the General Manager, introduced himself and sat down for a coffee with me. He has been with the Four Seasons for an impressive 19 years, seven on this very property. I always enjoy meeting the General Managers of the hotels I stay in, to understand their vision and how they make themselves unique from other industry players.
One of the amenities offered when staying at the Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat is access to the exclusive Le Club Dauphin. This beautiful, heated swimming pool offers incredible views of the Mediterranean while guests enjoy drinks and fresh baked goods poolside. Private cabanas are available for rent, though there are also plenty of lounge chairs to sunbathe on. There are also multiple areas where business travelers can conduct and attend events, like meetings.
With a fitness center, tranquil spa with an indoor swimming pool, salon, and two tennis courts on the premises, it’s challenging to find reasons to leave the hotel during the day. Especially considering there’s a Michelin star restaurant at the hotel, Le Cap. This on-site restaurant features incredible Mediterranean-inspired food using fresh ingredients. Some of the ingredients are even sourced from the incredible gardens on the property.
I thoroughly enjoyed taking long walks around the perfectly kept flower-filled gardens and property. It added a unique flair to my stay, peacefulness and quietness. While I stayed here during the off-season, I have heard that it offers the same tranquility even in summer during peak season.
During my stay, I also met Johann Burgos, the Club Dauphin Club Director. As he was snapping a photograph of me with the Bahrain flag, he recognized the flag instantly. Johann recounted his two years working at the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay’s restaurant – CUT by Wolfgang Puck. What a small world!
A stay at the Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat offers an impressive list of amenities, from Michelin star food to cozy rooms, indoor pool and outdoor pool, incredible views, and unbelievable hospitality and staff who will never forget your name. Regardless of when you visit, you’ll be rewarded with a memorable stay at one of the most iconic hotels in the Côte d’Azur.
For more information on the Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat, visit their website.
