Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel

Having undergone a major and meticulous renovation by the luxury Asian hotel group Anantara, the Anantara Plaza has reclaimed its status as one of the swishest properties on the French Riviera. The stunning restoration of the Belle Epoque façade is set back behind Jardin Albert and the beaches of the palm-fringed Promenade des Anglais. Close to Nice’s vibrant and colourful old town, Vieille Ville, the main square, Place Massena, and the city’s many upscale shops and restaurants, everywhere is within easy walking distance.

First opened in 1848, the building has played host to European aristocracy and government leaders over the decades. Now beautifully refurbished, the vibe is relaxed and indulgent.  Grand marble columns and Art Deco curves have been stylishly updated with clean contemporary lines, a muted palette, plush velvets, and modern art.

The 151 rooms and suites all offer refined and elegant accommodation and while they may vary in size, the décor has been crafted from a neutral palette of creams and sands, attractively set against grey and teal furnishings. Paquet flooring is softened by discreet beige rugs, vintage black and white photographs adorn the walls and the ensuite marble bathrooms feature oversized rain showers. Guests have a choice of city, garden or Mediterranean views and amenities include Wi-Fi, a pillow menu, minibar, Nespresso machine, artisan toiletries and climate control.

We’d recommend a Deluxe Panorama Room on the fifth floor. With glorious Mediterranean views and large terrace with loungers, it’s the perfect romantic hideaway for soaking up the sunshine. Alternatively, the pied-à-terre style suites all include an elegant living area and private balcony or terrace. Premium Rooms and suites all sleep up to two adults and one child, while the sumptuous Presidential Suite includes two ensuite bathrooms, spacious private terrace, and mid-century modern furnishings, sleeping up to two adults and two children. There are also interconnecting rooms for families.

The glamorous rooftop restaurant and bar is home to SEEN by Olivier, operated each evening by acclaimed Portuguese chef, Olivier da Costa. Choose from wonderful local produce that includes lobster, octopus, oysters, and black truffles, creatively transformed into contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. The bar attracts an elite crowd for DJ mixes, imaginative cocktails, and those dreamy sunset views. For all-day dining, the ground floor, Les Colonnades serves a mean espresso, has a tasting menu of caviar, oysters and Champagne and offers a fabulously decadent afternoon tea.

The onsite Anantara Spa has five treatment rooms, hammam and sauna. Treatments use organic seaweed and local essential oils from small artisanal producers. Yoga, Pilates, and personal training can also be arranged on the rooftop or in the 24-hour well-equipped fitness centre. For adventures further afield, guests can charter the hotel’s motorboat to explore the Côte d’Azur.