The Maybourne Riviera on the Côte d’Azur offers a luxurious escape with a focus on cocktails and relaxation. Clinton Cawood highlights its striking modernist architecture, perched on a remote cliffside, reminiscent of a Bond villain’s lair. The hotel’s design is both imposing and inviting, with its clean lines and bold structure softened by the generous use of natural light and a signature orange hue that adds warmth to the space.
A Relaxing Escape with a View
The hotel’s design balances its imposing structure with ample natural light and a signature orange hue. Guests are treated to breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, visible from the comfortable rooms, open-air gym, and even the bathtubs. The rooms themselves are designed with comfort in mind, featuring large windows that frame the distant yachts and jet skis on the water, creating a sense of tranquility. The open-air gym, with its stunning vistas across the bay, encourages guests to stay active while soaking in the scenery. The overall atmosphere exudes a relaxing sense of lightness and ease, paired with the height of luxury.
Since opening in 2022 after six years of renovations, the Maybourne Riviera has made significant adjustments to enhance the guest experience. One notable change is the decision to close during the off-season, a practical move given its remote location away from major cities like Nice or Cannes. This allows the hotel to focus on providing an exceptional experience during peak months. The addition of a brand-new gym and spa further raises the wellness offerings, catering to guests seeking both relaxation and fitness. The food and drink options have also evolved, reflecting a commitment to meeting diverse guest preferences.
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Cocktails and Culinary Delights
The terrace of Le 300 bar is a prime spot, offering panoramic views of the French coast accompanied by live music. While initially ambitious, the cocktail menu has shifted to a more balanced approach, featuring reinterpreted classics. This shift acknowledges that not all guests seek experimental drinks, opting instead for familiar favorites. The latest menu, entitled Identité, showcases the nine bestselling cocktails from the past three years, reimagined in inventive yet approachable ways. This thoughtful curation ensures that every guest finds something to enjoy.
The hotel boasts multiple bars and restaurants, a necessity given its secluded location. Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten has introduced his abc Kitchens Riviera concept, offering a selection of elegant spritzes that serve as a perfect prelude to dinner. At the Riviera Restaurant, Sébastien Tantot helms the kitchen, crafting dishes that are light, fresh, and rooted in local ingredients. A standout starter features raw amberjack paired with white peaches from Provence, while a main course of steamed Mediterranean sea bass with truffle-scented pesto showcases the region’s flavors. As evening falls, the terrace offers a peaceful view of Monaco’s twinkling lights, creating a serene dining experience.
Waterfront Activities and Beyond
Days at the Maybourne Riviera naturally revolve around the water. The private La Môme Riviera beach club provides a relaxing atmosphere with loungers, swimming, and a full restaurant and bar. This beachfront oasis offers a more grounded experience compared to the clifftop setting, making it easy to spend an entire afternoon by the sea. For those seeking adventure, the surrounding environment is ripe for exploration, with hiking trails and cycling routes winding through the hills above the coast.
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The hotel can arrange more adventurous outings like paragliding, but these feel optional. The Riviera itself is easily accessible, with Monaco nearby and perched villages offering a slower pace. These villages, with their galleries, small shops, and coastal walks, provide a charming contrast to the hotel’s quiet luxury. Whether guests choose to explore or simply unwind, the Maybourne Riviera ensures a seamless and memorable stay.
Rooms start at £698 per night. For more information, visit maybourne.com.