Royalty, politicians, artists, tycoons, film stars... At the tip of Cap d’Antibes on France's Côte d’Azur, the Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc has welcomed many celebrities from all over the world. The former Villa Soleil was built in 1870 to attract writers in search of inspiration. That plan was soon abandoned, and the villa became a superbly luxurious hotel rewarded in summer 2016 with official ‘Palace’ status.
Carved out of the bedrock in 1914 with uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean, the heated seawater infinity pool is one of the most iconic features of the estate.
The Eden-Roc gourmet restaurant balances refined sophistication with convivial dining. Together with its panoramic terrace it boasts uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean and the Iles de Lérins, and celebrates the exceptional culinary skills of Chef Olivier Gaïatto, with dishes such as Wild Sea Bass roasted Eden-Roc style and Steak Diane flambéed at the table.
The 1980s saw the introduction of junior suites, each of which has its own terrace with uninterrupted sea views, as well as a marble bathroom. Since the current general manager Philippe Perd arrived here ten years ago, this 118-room hotel has seen a succession of renovations during the winter months.
The Eden-Roc Champagne Lounge was created in 2013 on a sumptuous panoramic terrace. Working exclusively with 14 champagne houses, it offers the most prestigious champagnes in the world. Guests are offered a refined selection of sushi to accompany their champagne.
With direct access to the rocky tip of Cap d’Antibes, the Eden-Roc Suite was introduced in 2011 as the ultimate in luxury accommodation, and includes its own landscaped garden and a Jacuzzi on its 250 m² terrace. Madonna, Sharon Stone, Barbra Streisand, Robert Redford, Bill Cosby, Steven Spielberg and many other celebrities have been valued guests in this ultimate suite.
Located centrally in the landscaped gardens, the Villa Les Cèdres boasts a generous and gracious living room, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and a beautiful sheltered terrace, complete with fully equipped kitchen and outdoor Jacuzzi.
The authentic charm of the 33 beach cabanas offers guests the opportunity to relax in beautifully natural surroundings. Two cabanas are dedicated to providing Eden-Roc Sisley spa treatments in absolute tranquillity. The hotel wellbeing centre also includes a hammam, sauna, fitness suite and coaching suite for private sports training sessions.
Built in 2010, the Villa Eleana combines all the services of a prestige hotel with the benefits of a private property. This sumptuous home has its own pool, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, kitchen, living room, dining room and olive grove.
By Céline Perronnet
Journalist specialising in travel