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Grazia USA
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Grazia USA
Come With Us Inside the Ultimate VIP Experience at the Monaco Grand Prix 2025
MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 25: Dua Lipa attends the F1 Grand Prix Of Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Marc Piasecki/WireImage) There are luxury events, and then there is the Monaco Grand Prix. A spectacle of speed, glamour, and exclusivity, the legendary Formula 1 race through the winding streets of Monte Carlo draws royalty, Hollywood A-listers, fashion elites, and motorsport diehards from every corner of the globe. But to experience the Grand Prix as a VIP guest of Formula 1 itself? That's rarified air — and this year, GRAZIA USA got the golden ticket. Working directly with the F1 team, we were granted unprecedented access: from top-tier paddock credentials and pit lane walks to a front-row table at the Paddock Club streaming the race, a high-speed hot lap, and a private event with the F1 CEO aboard the MSC Explora II. It was a whirlwind of adrenaline, champagne, and high-octane luxury — and we're taking you with us! Touchdown in Monaco: The Calm Before the Speedstorm MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 22: A view of the marina and skyline beyond during previews ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 22, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Bryn Lennon – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images) Arriving in Monaco for race weekend is a sensory overload — in the best possible way. From the moment you land at Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, the energy shifts. Chauffeured transfers snake along the coast on the Grand Corniche, where the Mediterranean Sea sparkles against cliffs dusted with terracotta villas. Helicopter transfers buzz overhead for the ultra-elite, dropping guests on rooftop helipads or at the Monte Carlo heliport just minutes from the circuit. Luxury is everywhere: from the Bentleys pulling up to Hotel de Paris, to the overflowing terraces at Café de Paris. It's not just a race weekend — it's the Cannes Film Festival, the Oscars, and the Met Gala all rolled into one, but with engines screaming through hairpin turns. The Paddock Club: Where the Magic Begins MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 24: Lewis Hamilton of Great Britain and Ferrari walks in the paddock during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 24, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by) As we entered the fabled Formula 1 Paddock Club, it felt like checking into an ultra-exclusive club — because that's exactly what it is. With three floors of VIP tables, gourmet dining, full bars, and unbeatable track views, the Paddock Club is the beating heart of hospitality. Our table on the top floor faced a massive high-def screen mirroring the live feed, while just below us across the road, the pit crews prepped for qualifying rounds. Within arm's reach were celebrities, team principals, and executives exchanging hellos over Moët & Chandon. Every hour brought something new — free-flowing champagne, live music sets, an ever-rotating buffet of gourmet meals, including truffle pasta and endless artisan gelato. The attention to detail was astounding, with the staff truly embodying the concept of waiting on guests hand and foot. This experience wasn't just about watching the race — it was about living every moment in curated, cinematic style. Pit Lane Walk: Where the Action Lives MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 25: Patrick Dempsey outside the Oracle Red Bull Racing garage prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by) During race weekend, we joined the Aramco Pit Lane Walk. For motorsport fans and style insiders alike, this was the holy grail. There's something surreal about standing just feet away from a Formula 1 car while it's being fine-tuned by engineering crews. The hum of generators, the hiss of air guns, the laser focus of mechanics — it's visceral. Our access to the Oracle Red Bull Racing garage provided a behind-the-scenes look into one of the sport's most dominant teams. We caught a glimpse of Max Verstappen's car being calibrated. The smell of burning rubber, the vibration in the air… truly nothing compares. Trackside Thrills: The Circuit Tour & Hot Lap MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 25: Lando Norris of Great Britain driving the (4) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes leads Charles Leclerc of Monaco driving the (16) Scuderia Ferrari SF-25, Oscar Piastri of Australia driving the (81) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes, and Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB21 on track during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Bryn Lennon – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images) Riding in a flatbed truck around the Monaco street circuit during the Track Tour was like stepping into a movie. Every turn — Saint Devote, Mirabeau, Loews Hairpin — has history etched into it. An F1 host narrated the physics behind each curve, how drivers brake late into Tabac or gain milliseconds through the tunnel. Then came the hot lap. Strapped into the passenger seat of a race car, we rocketed around corners at G-force speeds with a pro driver at the wheel. With the likes of Kendall Jenner and Ed Sheeran — and basically any other household Hollywood name you can think of — having experienced an F1 Hot Lap during past races, this Hot Lap was the ultimate VIP experience, being the very first time it's been held on the Monaco circuit. My heart was in my throat, adrenaline spiking — yet somehow, I was grinning the whole time. It's fast. It's loud. It's unforgettable. Photo Safari: Up Close with the Speed MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 25: Lando Norris of Great Britain driving the (4) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes leads Charles Leclerc of Monaco driving the (16) Scuderia Ferrari SF-25 Oscar Piastri of Australia driving the (81) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB21 and the rest of the field at the start during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by) The Photo Safari experience was another level of immersion. This exclusive opportunity took us to a designated point mere inches from the tarmac. The cars scream past so fast, you feel the reverberation in your chest. We caught them mid-practice, tires spinning, sparks flying. It's one thing to watch F1 on a screen — it's another to be part of the action, trackside. Armed with media-grade cameras and positioned with intention, we captured cinematic videos of the cars navigating tight corners, powering into chicanes, and pulling into the pit lane. The thrill never got old, and the experience was the epitome of a true once-in-a-lifetime experience, seeing the iconic Monaco circuit as an F1 insider. Explora II: The Floating Jewel of the Grand Prix Photo courtesy of The Brandman Agency While Monaco's streets sizzled with speed, a new icon anchored in Port Hercule: Explora Journeys' EXPLORA II. Over the race weekend, the luxury ocean vessel transformed into the ultimate floating sanctuary, offering guests VIP access to the circuit alongside curated cultural and lifestyle programming. Saturday morning, we stepped aboard MSC's EXPLORA II for a private Formula 1 summit. There, the F1 CEO hosted a closed-door chat about the sport's future, diversity initiatives, and global expansion. As croissants and coffee made their rounds, industry insiders shared stories, and the top leaders in motorsport answered press questions. It was networking, F1 style. The ship also played host to the Vanity Fair Club, co-hosted by Simone Marchetti and Anna Nash. Notable guests included Prince Alexandre Grimaldi, Princess Alexandra de Hanovre, Flavio Briatore, Renault CEO Luca de Meo, and a cast of A-listers and titans of industry. The Style Scene: Monaco's Red Carpet on Asphalt MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 25: Frida Aasen attends the F1 Grand Prix Of Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Arnold Jerocki/FilmMagic) The fashion at Monaco — a GRAZIA favorite — is as headline-worthy as the race itself. Everyone brings their A-game. Men wore breezy tailored suits and sets in summer-neutral tones, women floated by in an unbeatable mix of two-piece sets, designer dresses, and race-worthy streetwear. Dressing for the Monaco Grand Prix isn't just about style — it's a statement. The dress code across the Paddock Club, rooftop lounges, and luxury yacht parties centers around classy, polished, and photogenic. For women, there's an unspoken formula: tasteful hemlines, designer fabrics, and a color palette that shines against the Côte d'Azur sun. White is ubiquitous — whether it's an A-line linen dress, a wide-leg jumpsuit, or a sleek two-piece set. Think structured silhouettes, elegant white dresses, sharp tailoring, and accessories that whisper wealth — not scream it. It's quiet luxury meets South of France fashion. It's a weekend where high fashion meets high-octane. Luxury brands made their presence known, with Chanel, Prada, and Dior bags being as common as paddock passes. Luxury handbags, oversized sunglasses, and barely-there makeup complete the look. Heels are worn, but often swapped for designer flats or strappy wedges, given the long walks between the paddock, yachts, and parties. Formula 1 caps, logo tees, and racing jackets were reimagined into high-fashion moments. Beauty was equally polished — glowy skin, blowouts, and bold lips were the undeclared dress code. What to Wear to the Monaco Grand Prix: Glamour, Precision, and Polished Luxury Below are a few of our favorite fashion brands and looks we wore this year that defined our race weekend wardrobe, each offering a distinct take on F1 style — paired back to designer handbags, sunnies, and footwear to create a high-low look for each day and event of the race weekend. URBAN OUTFITTERS FREE PEOPLE NANA JACQUELINE HEMANT AND NANDITA RETROFÊTE STEVE MADDEN THE WILD COLLECTIVE HUTCH DRESS FORUM Together, these brands translated the essence of Monaco into wearable moments — from bohemian brunches to high-octane afterparties. No matter your style, the key to race weekend dressing is this: blend glamour with intention. Every outfit is a photo opp, and every photo opp a vibe you create. A-Listers and Iconic Moments MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Naomi Campbell attends the F1 Grand Prix Of Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Arnold Jerocki/FilmMagic) MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Simone Ashley attends the F1 Grand Prix Of Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Arnold Jerocki/FilmMagic) MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Dua Lipa attends the F1 Grand Prix Of Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Arnold Jerocki/FilmMagic) XXXXX drives on track during the third practice session ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 24, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Nicola Ciancaglini Ciancaglini/ MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Izabel Goulart attends the F1 Grand Prix Of Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Arnold Jerocki/FilmMagic) MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Jess Hunt attends the F1 Grand Prix Of Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Marc Piasecki/WireImage) The 2025 Monaco Grand Prix was more than a race — it was a celebrity-studded cultural moment where fashion, fame, and Formula 1 collided. The paddock and pit lane were packed with global icons, each adding their own flair to the weekend. Among the most photographed? Naomi Campbell, who stunned in a white, ruched one-shoulder Alaïa dress, bringing a timeless elegance to her trackside appearances. Bridgerton star Simone Ashley leaned into understated chic, arriving in a white tank and ivory mini skirt and matching oversized bomber jacket, that balanced off-duty ease with polished glamour. Dua Lipa opted for casual-cool, wearing a bold yellow cheetah-print crop top, a black bomber jacket, and grey jeans, topped with a celestial manicure that didn't go unnoticed by beauty editors. MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: (L-R) Lauren Sanchez and Jeff Bezos attend the F1 Grand Prix Of Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Marc Piasecki/WireImage) MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Sofia Vergara attends the F1 Grand Prix Of Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Marc Piasecki/WireImage) MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Kylian Mbappé attends the F1 Grand Prix Of Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Arnold Jerocki/FilmMagic) MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Patrick Dempsey waves the chequered flag during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by) MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 24: Lewis Hamilton of Great Britain and Ferrari walks in the paddock during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 24, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by) MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Frida Aasen attends the F1 Grand Prix Of Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Marc Piasecki/WireImage) Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez turned heads at the circuit, with Sánchez donning a daring sheer black dress. Sofía Vergara also made a glamorous entrance at the Ferrari garage, sporting a Retrofête lacy corset paired with relaxed wide-leg jeans. Even soccer royalty joined in: Kylian Mbappé made waves with his appearance in a cream, cut-off sweater tank paired with crisp white trousers, mingling with fellow athletes and soaking up the Grand Prix atmosphere. Patrick Dempsey, ever the motorsport enthusiast, returned to Monaco to wave the checkered flag at the finish line. Fresh off his own racing endeavors and film projects, Dempsey brought his signature charm to the paddock and was spotted engaging with teams and fans alike. The fashion continued long after the engines stopped. TAG Heuer's yacht party brought out Monaco's most stylish guests for an evening of cocktails, luxury activations, a performance by Lola Young, and a surprise DJ set by the one and only Naomi Campbell, supported by Rampa from the sidelines of the DJ booth. From Port Hercule's yachts to the rooftops of Monte Carlo, the weekend was a seamless fusion of sport, stardom, and style — just as Monaco intended. Culture, Prestige, and Why Monaco Reigns Supreme McLaren's Australian driver Oscar Piastri drives during the third practice session for the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix at the Circuit de Monaco, on May 24, 2025. (Photo by Gabriel BOUYS / AFP) The Monaco Grand Prix is more than a motor race — it's the cultural centerpiece of the Formula 1 calendar. The event unites the best of sport, fashion, entertainment, and luxury on one iconic street circuit. It's a place where history meets hype, where the thrill of competition collides with the pageantry of privilege. This year's race alone drew nearly 2 million U.S. television viewers — a record-breaking statistic that proves Monaco isn't just for the elite, it's a global obsession. Qualifying & Race Day: The Main Event McLaren's British driver Lando Norris crosses the line to win the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix at the Circuit de Monaco, on May 25, 2025. (Photo by Gabriel BOUYS / AFP) MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Race winner Lando Norris of Great Britain and McLaren and Zak Brown, Chief Executive Officer of McLaren celebrates in parc ferme during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by) MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Race winner Lando Norris of Great Britain and McLaren Second placed Charles Leclerc of Monaco and Scuderia Ferrari Third placed Oscar Piastri of Australia and McLaren and Zak Brown, Chief Executive Officer of McLaren on the podium during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by) MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Race winner Lando Norris of Great Britain and McLaren and Third placed Oscar Piastri of Australia and McLaren celebrate on the podium during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by) MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Zak Brown, Chief Executive Officer of McLaren and Race winner Lando Norris of Great Britain and McLaren celebrate on the podium with Champagne during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by) Saturday's qualifying session was nothing short of electrifying, as drivers pushed the limits on Monaco's notoriously tight and technical circuit. Lando Norris delivered a stunning lap for McLaren, securing pole position with a new track record of 1:09.954 — just 0.109 seconds ahead of local favorite Charles Leclerc. McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri rounded out the top three, while Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton followed close behind. The competitive intensity and precision on display had spectators on edge throughout the session. Sunday's race saw Norris convert his pole into a commanding victory, leading all 78 laps around the unforgiving streets of Monte Carlo. Despite the FIA's introduction of a mandatory two-stop strategy to encourage more overtaking, the race remained largely processional, typical of Monaco's layout. Pit strategy and track position proved decisive, with Leclerc and Piastri completing the podium. The win marked a major milestone for Norris, who became the first McLaren driver since 2008 to win in Monaco, further tightening the battle in the 2025 championship standings. From the top floor of the Paddock Club, we witnessed it all unfold. Gourmet snacks arrived as effortlessly as the champagne. Laughter and cheers erupted with every lead change, pit stop, and corner scrape. Beneath the Riviera sun, the track below us shimmered like a stage, every turn playing out a scene of motorsport mastery. Post-race, we were escorted to the Red Bull Energy Station — a floating fortress of fun moored just beside the paddock. Part club, part luxury lounge, it pulsed with music and celebration. Louis Vuitton: Victory Travels in Style MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Louis Vuitton trophy podium celebrations during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Mark Sutton - Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images) Photo courtesy of Louis Vuitton The presentation of the Formula 1 trophy in its bespoke Louis Vuitton Trophy Trunk is a work of art in itself. Designed to showcase the sport's pinnacle of performance, the trunk — handcrafted at Louis Vuitton's Asnières atelier in France — symbolized the enduring partnership between the luxury house and Formula 1. This year marked the ninth Trophy Trunk presented by Louis Vuitton in the 2025 season, culminating in its appearance during the national anthem sequence and the final podium moment where McLaren's Lando Norris raised the trophy in victory. Adorned with a bold red and white 'V' across its Monogram canvas — a nod to both 'Victory' and 'Vuitton' — the trunk was more than an accessory. It was a statement of craftsmanship and culture, bridging the world of heritage fashion with high-speed motorsport. The Louis Vuitton logo was also reimagined across on-track signage, reflecting the dynamism and velocity of F1. How to Attend the Monaco Grand Prix Like a VIP MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 25: Isack Hadjar of France and Visa Cash App Racing Bulls with Odell Beckham Jr during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by) Want in on all the action of the elite? Here's how: Paddock Club packages are the gold standard for attending the Monaco Grand Prix in style. For the 2025 race weekend, official three-day Paddock Club passes ranged from approximately $14,900 to $18,700, offering premium viewing above the track, gourmet cuisine, open bars, pit lane walks, and exclusive insider appearances. For those craving even more exclusivity, the Legend Paddock Club experience — priced around $16,200 — adds guided track tours, meet-and-greets with F1 legends, and elevated hospitality touches. Another standout option is the Paddock Club Yacht Package, which combines all the traditional perks with VIP access aboard a luxury yacht moored in Port Hercule, available for around $16,850. For those booking through elite concierge services like Velocity Black or The Fixer, bespoke packages can include yacht parties, private transfers, and access to after-dark events. Prices vary based on customization, but every experience promises unmatched proximity to the action — both on and off the track. One of the weekend's most exclusive culinary experiences was found at F1 La Terrasse. With panoramic views of the circuit's most iconic sections, guests dined on a bespoke, daily-changing menu paired with signature cocktails curated by Gordon Ramsay's team. It was a Michelin-worthy moment set to the soundtrack of V12 engines — and one not to be missed when you attend your next race. Hotel-wise, book early. Hôtel Hermitage, Hôtel de Paris, and Monte Carlo Bay Hotel fill up fast. Consider flying into Nice and chartering a helicopter transfer for peak drama. And pack with intention — this is not your average vacation. The Monaco Grand Prix Isn't Just a Race, It's a Religion MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 25: Patrick Dempsey watches from a balcony prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by) What makes Monaco unlike any other race is its layers: the history, the glamour, the setting, and the sense that anything can happen. It's not just about who takes pole — it's about who you meet, what you wear, how you feel. It's the speed, the scent of fresh tarmac, the clink of flutes aboard a yacht. For those lucky enough to experience it through Formula 1's inner circle, it's the kind of weekend you replay in your head for months afterward. And if you can't attend the Monaco Grand Prix yourself, well, that's what you have GRAZIA for! And trust us: once you've done Monaco like this, there's no going back.
Travel Daily News
6 days ago
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Hôtel Belles Rives to oversee concierge services at Riviera Residence Le Provençal
Caudwell partners with Hôtel Belles Rives to deliver luxury concierge services, lifestyle amenities, and exclusive experiences at Le Provençal, French Riviera. ANTIBES, FRANCE – Luxury developer Caudwell has agreed a partnership with the five-star Hôtel Belles Rives to manage the concierge at Le Provençal on the French Riviera, providing residents of the new £300 million plus (GDV) luxury residential address with concierge, lifestyle services, valet parking and the benefit of privileged reservation at the diverse gastronomy, activities and well-being on offer at Hôtel Belles Rives including its one-star Michelin restaurant, famed cocktail bar, spa corner and private beach club. At the gateway to Cap d'Antibes, located adjacent to Hôtel Belles Rives on Boulevard Edouard Baudoin, Le Provençal is the landmark former Hôtel Provençal, built in 1926-27 by architect Lucien Stable for American millionaire Frank Jay Gould, now converted to provide 41 residences, all with secure garaging. Complete with Art Deco styled public areas, cinema, health spa, restaurant, children's playroom, retail boutiques and six acres of landscaped gardens with a 30-metre swimming pool. Le Provençal offers gracious luxury living and amenities unrivalled on the Cote d'Azur. Under the new partnership Hôtel Belles Rives, which is renowned for its luxury and outstanding hospitality, will provide Le Provençal with a range of concierge services that are included in the service charges. The concierge staff will have bespoke uniforms designed to complement the restored iconic building. Managed from a dedicated concierge room the services include concie welcoming guests, valet parking, managing post and deliveries and operating and booking the health spa. Residents at Le Provençal will benefit from privileged reservations, subject to availability, at each of the restaurants at the Hôtel Belles Rives, from the Michelin-starred La Passagère, its beachfront La Plage, the famous Bar Fitzgerald, and Paseo, the convivial all-day dining at Hôtel Juana, as well as beach chairs available at the private beach. In addition, the luxury Swiss skincare house, Valmont, offers a jewel-box of a spa at the hotel where facials and body treatments are on offer. With snacks and drinks served at the water's edge the private beach includes loungers, and a pontoon with a private landing for tenders ferrying guests arriving from superyachts berthed in the Bay of Golfe-Juan. With professional lifeguards on duty daily the private beach can also provide on a tariff basis Le Provençal guests with swimming lessons, water-skiing, pedalos and paddleboards. On a tariff basis, residents of Le Provençal can also benefit from apartment cleaning, bed linen clean and turn down and the provision of flowers. Other concierge services include restaurant bookings, the organisation of museum visits, day trips and cultural tours; the hire of a chauffeur driven Bentley Flying Spur or Mercedes S-class limousine for airport transfer or other Riviera journeys; access to an exclusive collection of Ferrari, Mercedes and BMW sportscars that can be rented during a stay and the hire of skippered motoryachts. Golf enthusiasts can have access to the world-renowned Mougins Golf & Country Club and Golf Club Cannes-Mandelieu whilst teenagers and children can benefit from personalised sports and leisure activities including tennis lessons, dance, games, gym, art classes and French language lessons. The new partnership reunites two iconic buildings which have a unique shared heritage. Hôtel Belles Rives and Hôtel Provençal (now Le Provençal) helped provide the glamorous backdrops for American author F. Scott Fitzgerald's life on the French Riviera during the 1920s and 1930s, which had a key influence on The Great Gatsby, completed in 1925, ironically celebrating the centennial of its release this year, and Tender is the Night which he penned between 1925 and 1933. Hôtel Belles Rives was originally a private residence known as Villa St. Louis which was rented in the summer of 1926 by Fitzgerald, his wife Zelda and their daughter Scottie where the couple socialised with their bohemian circle who included Gertrude Stein, Picasso, Dorothy Parker and Ernest Hemingway. One evening Fitzgerald persuaded musicians performing at a restaurant in Juan-les-Pins to come to Villa St. Louis and perform until dawn, an event that helped to inspire the creation of the hotel's famous Bar Fitzgerald. In 1929 the Villa St. Louis was extended and remodelled into the now iconic Hôtel Belles Rives. The adjacent Hôtel Provençal, opened in 1927, provided another Riviera setting where Fitzgerald, Zelda, and their famous friends liked to socialise, the cocktail bar hosting the Fitzgeralds, Picasso, Ernest Hemingway and Sir Winston Churchill. Hôtel Provencal closed for refurbishment in 1977 and never reopened, its future uncertain until it was acquired in 2014 by luxury developer Caudwell. For the restoration Caudwell has worked alongside Parisian architecture and interior design house Affine Design, renowned for the renovation of celebrated hotels such as the Hôtel de Crillon, Hôtel de Paris and Hôtel Shangri-La Paris. Le Provençal is scheduled for completion in summer 2025 with the building's restored public areas including a porte cochère, grand reception lobby and a rotunda with an Ottoman style domed gold leaf ceiling. There is also an Art Deco inspired 16-seat cinema and a 2,155 (200 sq.m.) health spa. Inside the spa a serene sanctuary of wellness beckons with a semi-circular tinted mosaic spa pool with a feature waterfall and jets, an inviting Jacuzzi, vitality pool and submersed beds. Complemented by a sauna, a hammam, a cold plungepool, an ice fountain, hydrotherapy jets and soothing hot stone benches for a deeply rejuvenating experience. There is also a gymnasium, treatment room, fitness studio and a separate female steam room and sauna in the ladies changing rooms. Residents will be able to book health, beauty and spa treatments and private fitness and gym coaching through the concierge. The 41 residences are up to 9,440 (877 sq.m.) in size, and include lateral apartments, penthouses and garden houses/villas. Most of the residences offer outside terraces and views of the sea, with most also benefitting from views of the Alps. Located across the 8th to 11th floors the three penthouses, each with six bedroom suites, all have a private mosaic lined swimming pool and offer panoramic views along the French Riviera including views of Cap d'Antibes, Nice, Monaco, Cannes and the Alps. John Caudwell, British businessman, philanthropist and Founder of Caudwell says: 'The partnership with the Hôtel Belles Rives provides Le Provençal with outstanding 5-star concierge and lifestyle services, valet parking and the benefit of privileged reservation at the Hótel Belles Rives restaurants, cocktail bar and private beach. The concierge security and services such as apartment cleaning, bed linen clean and turn down and airport transfer provide Le Provençal with the perfect lock-up-and-leave offering for second home owners and a premium buy-to-let opportunity for investors.' Stéphane Vuillaume, Director & General Manager at Hôtel Belles Rives, says, 'For nearly a century, Hôtel Belles Rives has embodied the golden age of Riviera hospitality, where timeless elegance meets the refined art of personalized service. Our conciergerie upholds the storied tradition of the grand hotels of Europe, anticipating every need and crafting experiences that capture the effortless glamour of the Côte d'Azur. Residents of Le Provençal will have access to this unparalleled level of service, along with world-class wellness, leisure, and cultural offerings—including our renowned private beach, a cherished retreat on Cap d'Antibes that has welcomed discerning travelers for generations.'
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Heidi Klum, 51, Stuns in Itty Bitty Bikini After Hitting Cannes Red Carpet
Heidi Klum is enjoying a break from the hustle and bustle of the Cannes red carpet. Klum and her husband Tom Kaulitz have been in France for the famous film festival for over a week and have appeared on multiple red carpets, including those for Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning and Partir Un Jour (Leave One Day). The America's Got Talent judge turned heads in a handful of jaw-dropping dresses for the festival, including a sequinned mermaid-cut silver gown and a sleeveless pink number that was petal perfect. But now it's time to enjoy the Côte d'Azur, where the weather is perfect for sunbathing along the beach in a trendy Calzedonia bikini. That's precisely what Klum has been up to, and she was happy to share her leisure time with fans via a video that she shot herself while sitting on a towel in front of a breathtaking view of a sparkling blue pool and the sapphire blue water of the French Riviera. Klum smiled coyly for the camera while giving a close-up look at her sun-kissed blonde hair that she wore down and cascading over her shoulders. The model-turned-actress was perfection in a rust-colored string bikini that featured gathered triangles for the top and bottom. She shielded her eyes from the sun with a pair of aviator sunglasses to complete the fashionable beachy look.
News.com.au
26-05-2025
- News.com.au
French authorities blame sabotage for second power blackout
French authorities on Sunday blamed sabotage and ordered heightened security after a fire at an electricity sub-station in Nice caused the second major power blackout in two days along the Riviera. The latest fire cut power to about 45,000 homes in western Nice for several hours, authorities said. Nice airport was briefly without electricity, the city's deputy mayor Gael Nofri told AFP. A similar arson attack on a power substation on Saturday partially disrupted the final day of the Cannes film festival, forcing organisers to use backup generators to keep the event going. Prosecutors said they had opened an investigation and were looking into a claim Sunday by two anarchist groups of "responsibility for the attack on electrical installations on the Cote d'Azur". The claim was posted on an alternative website. "I vigorously condemn these criminal acts hitting our country," Nice mayor Christian Estrosi said on X. "We are making images from our monitoring centre available to investigators and will strengthen the city's network at strategic electrical sites in coming days," he added. "Until the perpetrators of these acts have been arrested, we will not ease up our attention anywhere," Estrosi told reporters. Nice's chief prosecutor Damien Martinelli said studies had been carried out "to clarify the damage and the methods used to carry out the act" and that police were investigating "arson by an organised group". Police said that tyre marks had been found near the Nice transformer and someone had broken into a room in the building. An arson attack at a power substation and a bid to cut the legs of an electricity pylon near Cannes cut power to 160,000 homes in the region for five hours on Saturday. The cut knocked out traffic lights and bank machines in Cannes, as well as threatening the finale to the film festival. The festival "switched to an alternative electricity power supply" to keep the closing ceremony and award events going. Firefighters battled for five hours to put out the flames at the sub-station, officials said. In the attack on the high-voltage pylon, three of its four legs had been damaged, said prosecutors. mla-vxm-alc/djt/jj
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Yahoo
French authorities blame sabotage for second power blackout
French authorities on Sunday blamed sabotage and ordered heightened security after a fire at an electricity sub-station in Nice caused the second major power blackout in two days along the Riviera. The latest fire cut power to about 45,000 homes in western Nice for several hours, authorities said. Nice airport was briefly without electricity, the city's deputy mayor Gael Nofri told AFP. A similar arson attack on a power substation on Saturday partially disrupted the final day of the Cannes film festival, forcing organisers to use backup generators to keep the event going. Prosecutors said they had opened an investigation and were looking into a claim Sunday by two anarchist groups of "responsibility for the attack on electrical installations on the Cote d'Azur". The claim was posted on an alternative website. "I vigorously condemn these criminal acts hitting our country," Nice mayor Christian Estrosi said on X. "We are making images from our monitoring centre available to investigators and will strengthen the city's network at strategic electrical sites in coming days," he added. "Until the perpetrators of these acts have been arrested, we will not ease up our attention anywhere," Estrosi told reporters. Nice's chief prosecutor Damien Martinelli said studies had been carried out "to clarify the damage and the methods used to carry out the act" and that police were investigating "arson by an organised group". Police said that tyre marks had been found near the Nice transformer and someone had broken into a room in the building. An arson attack at a power substation and a bid to cut the legs of an electricity pylon near Cannes cut power to 160,000 homes in the region for five hours on Saturday. The cut knocked out traffic lights and bank machines in Cannes, as well as threatening the finale to the film festival. The festival "switched to an alternative electricity power supply" to keep the closing ceremony and award events going. Firefighters battled for five hours to put out the flames at the sub-station, officials said. In the attack on the high-voltage pylon, three of its four legs had been damaged, said prosecutors. mla-vxm-alc/djt/jj
