Hotels
Nice, France: The Historic Hotel Negresco
The sunny, white-and-pink domed structure situated prominently on the Promenade des Anglais on the French Riviera’s Nice (pronounced niece) has drawn distinguished guests to its lavish rooms and suites since the doors first opened in 1913. Since that time, the hotel has certainly seen its ups and downs—during World War I it was converted into a hospital—but is now under the firm direction of Madame Jeanne Augier who has brought her love of fine art to the Negresco, morphing it into a sort of hotel gallery.
A light, airy décor greets visitors upon entering the lobby, whose crowning glory, a Baccarat crystal chandelier (made of over 16,000 crystals) commissioned by Czar Nicholas II, draws the eye upward and takes your breath away. The 121 rooms and 24 suites are lavishly appointed in styles ranging from Louis XIV to art deco; in some rooms, the beds are spread with mink comforters. A theme of light blue runs through many of the rooms, reflecting the cooling hues of the Baie des Anges—the Bay of the Angels, which can be seen from some balconies. Every room is also equipped with LCD televisions and DSL Internet access.
Dinner at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Chantecler, is definite cause for celebration. The stately interiors are offset by whimsical colors like magenta and sea foam green, preserving a seaside resort feel despite the five-star opulence of the place. Executive chef Jean-Denis Rieubland offers three prix fixe menus at incremental cost, with a tempting variety of light seafood and Provencal fare dominating the menu. At La Rotonde, the atmosphere is less formal—merry-go-round horses are an integral part of the interior design—and a la carte dishes are on offer along with a prix fixe menu.
The Hotel Negresco boasts a private beach where guests may soak up the Mediterranean sun in relative quiet; tennis matches and golf games can be arranged through the concierge. Accommodations for pets can be arranged, and children are, of course, welcome (though it must be said that this is more of a grown-up hotel). With so much history, intriguing décor, centuries-old art and unforgettable dining experiences, it’s no wonder Salvador Dalí regarded the hotel as, “…a star palace…in the heart of the lights and pomp of the Bay of Angels.”
Have you been to the Hotel Negresco? Eaten there? Been inside the lobby? We want to hear what you think. Share the tip, share the trip!
Kate Ryge
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