Many hotels-legends with a century of history, because of their own conservatism, turn into dusty museums named after themselves – in these stuffy naphthalene kingdoms you no longer want to live. Ten years ago, one of Monaco’s oldest hotels was just that. But with the advent of a new director, who was not afraid to start a change, Metropole Monte-Carlo was transformed. In 2004, the hotel reopened after a revolutionary renovation, during which it was completely renovated, turning from a dim fragment of the past into a full of life, modern and comfortable hotel,retaining, nevertheless, that special spirit and style that make an ordinary hotel a palace.
Interior and exterior of the hotel
The design of Metropole Monte-Carlo was done by the famous Jacques Garcia, who this time did without the trademark gloom. Despite the sustained classical style, you can feel the frivolous character of the Cenir d’Azur, and it seems as if you are in a Mediterranean villa.
Warm colors, patterned draperies, soft carpets, fresh flowers, even columns, marble bas-reliefs and stucco on the ceiling – light and airy, as if made of cream and marshmallows. The entrance to the hotel also looks special: a huge boxwood arch leads to a wonderful courtyard with a yew alley, grape-braided lattices and pots with bells.
A special sound designer and style director work to create a cozy atmosphere, who decorate the interiors several times a season in accordance with the new theme – while remaining themselves, Metropole continues to change.
Hotel Restaurants
Another acquisition that changed the fate of the Metropole Monte-Carlo hotel is joël Robichon’s restaurant, for which gourmets from all over Europe travel to Monaco. Surprisingly democratic for a Michelin institution (no dress code, reasonable prices and the opportunity to get a table without reservation), Joel Robuchon Monte-Carlo offers mostly simple homemade dishes, but cooked so masterfully that they impress more than subtle gastronomic delights – which is worth only tender, like whipped cream, mashed potatoes, robuchon’s crown dish. This winter, the master of haute cuisine opened another restaurant – Yoshi, robeshon’s first and very successful experiment in the field of Japanese culinary traditions. The chef offers easier options for his dishes in the SPA-restaurant by the pool.
Hotel services
The Wellness Centre of the Metropole Monte-Carlo offers signature treatments from the world-renowned ESPA brand, whose methodology is based on a combination of modern techniques, ancient beauty and health rituals and signature beauty treatments based on natural preparations. The main principle of the center is an individual approach and adaptation of each procedure for a specific client. If, for example, you come for a massage with a runny nose, the ESPA therapist will certainly put eucalyptus aromatic oil at the headboard to make it easier for you to breathe.
And before starting the procedure, you will be asked to choose from the gems laid out on a tray a stone that you like – this simple test will immediately tell the specialist what your mental and emotional state is.
In the Zen style metropole ESPA is so nice to be that it is better not to run in between, and immediately take the program for the day. It begins with breakfast in the SPA-bar, a visit to the fitness studio and relaxation by the pool. Then you go to the Heat Experience area (hammam, crystal steam room, caldarium, ice fountain, tropical and aromadush).
Well, then follows the ritual of cleansing the feet of Padabhyanga and the procedures according to the chosen program: stone therapy and facial care – for the “Ritual of pacification”, wrapping with seaweed or special clay, peeling, relaxing head massage, aroma massage of the body and intensive facial treatment – for the “Ritual of recovery”, detox wrap with heated algae, cleansing massage and restorative facial treatment – for the “Cleansing Ritual”, and so on. A pleasant finale will be a room for relaxation, where comfortable couches are hidden behind the kissey curtains, and delicious candied fruits, nuts, herbal teas and fresh juices are waiting on the table.
Beach & Pool
In summer, metropole Monte-Carlo offers a private beach called The Wind Rose, which offers a free shuttle, in addition to an outdoor heated saltwater pool. Golf courses and tennis courts are nearby. Across the street is the famous Casino (the Metropole Lifestyle card entitles you to free admission). The streets closest to the hotel are filled with many boutiques (the same card gives discounts in many of them). The hotel organises yacht trips and excursions around the Riviera.
