24 hours at the Gray d'Albion Hotel in Cannes

Be like a star in Cannes

Côte d'Azur - French RivieraEntertainment and NightlifeCities

Fabrice Rambert
© Fabrice Rambert

Reading time: 0 minPublished on 17 November 2018, updated on 26 January 2024

A stone's throw from the famous promenade of the Croisette in Cannes, Le Gray d'Albion is one of the stars of the Barrière group of hotels on the Côte d'Azur. Following a programme of renovation in the spring of 2018, the 4* hotel has had a facelift whilst retaining the understated elegance which has long charmed its guests including many stars of stage and screen.

10am: Artists Entrance

It’s an exclusive hotel and one of Cannes’ best kept secrets. In Rue des Serbes behind the Croisette, away from the hustle and bustle of the seafront, Le Gray d'Albion is a haven of tranquillity. The refurbished lobby which perfectly presents the reception, conciergerie and bar has delighted regular guests such as the Italian filmmaker Nanni Moretti, as well as newcomers. The hall is lined with magnificent veined marble, the wood panelled bar inspires conversation and the sunlight filters down the graceful grand staircase.

11am: Window on the Med

In the heart of Cannes, Gray d'Albion has for a long time been the secret refuge of the stars of cinema. They come here to relax and enjoy the refined comfort of beautifully designed (but not ostentatious) rooms. Clean design, transparent furniture by Philippe Starck, shades of beige, taupe and brown contrast perfectly with the blue sky and the sunshine of the Côte d'Azur streaming through the large windows, a picture of splendour.

1pm: Lunch at the beach

It’s impossible to resist temptation. On the Croisette, facing the Mediterranean, reached by private pontoon, the beach of Gray d'Albion awaits you. In fine weather, enjoy lunch on the beach and dine under the stars at restaurant La Plage. Savour Italian classics, grilled aromatic fish, relax on the deckchairs and treat yourself to a peaceful pause.

5pm: Take a break

The rue d'Antibes is famous for its haute couture and luxury stores selling jewellery, bags, perfume and more, enticing you with their beautifully dressed windows. The afternoon is made for strolling between the Croisette and superb shopping streets of Cannes. Reward yourself with a break at Gray's Bar where the menu promises mouth-watering pleasures.

7pm: Romantic sunset

After a relaxing session in the hotel's fitness area, enjoy the sheer pleasure of a sunset - the light is unique on the Côte d'Azur. Catch the last rays of the sun from the Plage du Gray. You’ll have a front row seat from the panoramic terraces of the hotel’s suites.

8pm: Insiders dinner secret

It's a well-kept secret. On a charming terrace, enveloped by walls that dull the sounds of the city, La Terrasse du Gray restaurant is loved by gourmets. Sitting here, it’s easy to believe you’re far away from the daily life of the city, even on cooler days when the heated terrace is the perfect place to while away the hours and enjoy superb cuisine.

8am: Open the curtains on Cannes

After enjoying the magnificent technicolour sunset, return to your room along corridors hung with pictures of the film starts who have made the Cannes Film Festival world famous. And, in the morning the view from your terrace over breakfast is equally cinematic.

By Pascale Filliâtre

Journalist-traveller. I often voyage to the end of the world to explore what France offers... just next door. filliatre.pascale@orange.fr

See more