I travelled to Paris for a consumer tech event last week and decided to tag on two extra days in Nice because I had never been to the Côte d’Azur — which is the Mediterranean Coast of France.
I was lucky enough to be hosted by Le Negresco, one of the most famous hotels in the world.
If you’ve never been to this city there is a main stretch of road called the Promenade des Angles which goes for about seven kilometres.
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As you drive along here from the airport the 110-year-old hotel emerges like royalty mixed with a touch of old school glamour.
From the outside it is an exquisite piece of architecture.
The one word that comes to mind before I had even stepped inside is opulence. Despite the prime location, what makes it really special is the interior.
LIVING IN AN ART GALLERY
Let’s explore the heartbeat of the hotel itself — the art.
Known for being a symbol of the Belle Époque era, Le Negresco’s artistic charm is hard to resist.
Staying here is like taking up residence in a living art gallery, something I never thought I would do.
There are more than 6,000 pieces on show including my favourite — Yellow Nana by Niki de Saint Phalle — which spins underneath a chandelier of 16,800 Baccarat crystals.
It is a stunning piece emphasising femininity and self-expression.
This was something I discovered was incredibly important to Madame Augier, the owner of the hotel since 1957, who was a pivotal figure in extending the hotel’s influence around the world.
There are also 17th century tapestries and an original portrait of Napoleon III which hangs in the historic bar.
Whether it is above, below or next to you, there is art.
It’s no wonder the hotel has welcomed some of the biggest names in history including Princess Grace of Monaco and Salvador Dali.
THE GUEST SUITES
Walking through here is like being transported back to my high school history class where I first learned about the Beautiful Age.
A time when everything was luxurious, extravagant but also elegant.
It is something I don’t experience in day to day Sydney life so as you can imagine I was beyond excited.
Especially when I opened the door to the Marie Antoinette Suite.
This ultra-luxe residence opens up to the best view of Nice. There’s also a separate living and dining area, walk in wardrobe, spacious bathroom and bedroom with a canopy bed.
The blue and golden hues perfectly capture the 18th century topped off with Sèvres vases. And this is where the problem starts.
You might be thinking how on earth could there be an issue with a room this grand?
Once you walk in, it is impossible to leave.
Imagine drinking champagne as the sun comes down overlooking panoramic views of the sea.
I did exactly that — calling on two friends who were staying nearby to come over and check out my humble abode.
Their reactions were priceless. The martini hangover not so much.
It’s worth noting 80 per cent of the hotel rooms feature views over the bay. In total there are 102 rooms and 26 suites.
They are all fitted out with period furniture and paintings.
If you don’t like art, I guarantee you one night here would have you reconsidering.
FRENCH HOSPITALITY
What really stands out to me is the standard of customer service. It is truly unmatched.
Booking.com’s European Search Data for 2024 showed that the top destination for travellers is Paris.
And it’s no wonder as the city becomes the centre stage for the 2024 Olympic Games.
But it is closely followed in second place by Nice.
And as the Olympics kick off the French Riviera is ready to welcome visitors.
And hotels like Le Negresco are offering more than just accommodation.
There is a new spa which opened in January this year and features a central pool, yoga experience, seven treatment rooms, a sauna, experience showers, relaxation area and hammam.
It was designed by Architect Jean-Phillipe Nuel and international spa expert Patrick Saussay.
Le Negresco beach club is open every day from May to September with sunbeds, a lounge and restaurant.
It is a short two minute stroll across from the hotel.
What’s more the Michelin-starred restaurant Le Chantecler is run by Virgine Basselot and brings classic and contemporary tasting menus together using ingredients sourced from the region, including Nice’s hinterland and cheese from a cheesemonger close to the hotel.