The Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo
Luxferity, 12.03.2023
The Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo
THE HOTEL METROPOLE MONTE-CARLO
Ideally located in the Carré d'Or, a few steps from the Casino, the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. This luxurious Belle Époque style property was built in 1886. It was entirely renovated by acclaimed French architect Jacques Garcia, who created a palace of 125 rooms and suites combining glamour, sophistication and sensoriality with Mediterranean charm, in tune with the times. In 2017, this expert in design and luxury revamped the main public areas to further enchant them.
Excecutive Chef Christophe Cussac invites you to live a unique and convivial culinary experience within the footsteps of his ‘spiritual father’, the late Joël Robuchon. The Lobby Bar, with its glamorous, elegant and warm ambience, for all sweet and savoury tastebuds, is the unmissable meeting place for fine diners to taste modern, innovative and refined cuisine using Mediterranean flavours. Yoshi, the only Japanese restaurant on the Côte d'Azur to be awarded a Michelin star since 2010, showcases typical Japanese cuisine in a contemporary and daring décor by Didier Gomez. Odyssey is a charming poolside restaurant within a ‘haute couture’ setting designed by Karl Lagerfeld.
The House of Givenchy opened its third Spa in the world, the Spa Metropole by Givenchy in April 2017 at the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo. Also designed by architect Didier Gomez and ideally integrated into the Palace, the Spa Metropole by Givenchy embodies the philosophy of the House's core values: the choice of an exceptional location, with the luxury of space, sophistication of treatments, and a haven for absolute pleasure and well-being.
KEY FIGURES
- 125 rooms, 64 suites
- 2,500 square-foot (240m²) Penthouse, La Suite Carré d’Or, includes a 1,200 square-foot (110m²) terrace
- 1 Michelin Star
- 3 restaurants
•Yoshi*
•Odyssey
•Lobby-Bar - Spa Metropole by Givenchy
HISTORY OF THE METROPOLE
Once upon a time, the Metropole…
Dating back to 1886 and since opening has offered guests wonderful days and balmy nights.
Since its original opening in 1889, Metropole has offered guests memorable stays and experiences.
Standing upon land once owned by Pope XIII, the property was acquired by the Monte-Carlo Hotel Company Ltd. in 1886. Hotel Metropole came into being in the euphoria and prosperity of the “Belle Époque” period towards the end of the 19th century. The era dedicated itself to the pleasures of refined vacationing, for which the Metropole became one of the most highly-prized addresses on the Côte d’Azur.
Since its opening, Hotel Metropole has attracted an international and elite clientele, ranging from celebrities and aristocrats to businessmen.
It is believed that American novelist Edith Warton was inspired by Hotel Metropole when she wrote “The House of Mirth.” Published in 1905 and partially set in Monte-Carlo, Edith describes the Garden of Eden, in the same likeness as the patrician palace-style landscaped gardens still found today at Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo.
Development of today’s Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo
In the 1980s, Lebanese developer, Nabil Boustany, acquired the property and took on the major operation of restoring the hotel to its former brilliance.
With the renovation came a new name, Metropole Palace, and Nabil’s work exceeded the hotel’s goal of bringing guests a new level of luxurious hospitality. A place of serenity in the heart of town, the address drew further attention as a destination within Monaco.
Moving forward to the fall of 2003, the hotel embarked on a new chapter with a second restoration. The new five-star establishment re-opened in summer 2004 as Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo, representing the pinnacle of luxury with a new concept of prestige and hospitality.
FAMOUS NAMES
THE HOTEL METROPOLE MONTE-CARLO
A unique blend of excellence, luxury and the fine art of living for a hotel which artfully renews the codes of top-notch establishments.
- Didier GOMEZ, Interior Designer
Didier Gomez is the designer of Yoshi, unique Japanese restaurant in the French Riviera with one Michelin star, which opened in 2008. Gomez worked closely with the landscaper, Jacques Messin, to create a transitional space between the interior and exterior of the restaurant. The dining room opens onto a Japanese-inspired garden, creating harmony for the surrounding environment.
Gomez’s previous work includes the décor of Asian inspired restaurants, “The Mood” in Paris, as well as prestigious collaborations with internationally known brands such as LVMH, Vivendi, Ferragamo, Céline, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Yves Saint Laurent and Armani. In 2017, Gomez designs the new Spa Metropole by Givenchy, the new well- being area at the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo. The design fits perfectly with the hotel’s philosophy while respecting the chic and glamorous vision of the House of Givenchy.
- Jacques GARCIA, Interior Architect
Internationally renowned architectural and interior designer, Jacques Garcia, was selected to recreate the interiors and the exterior landscape of the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo as part of the property’s multi-million dollar renovation plan. With experience redesigning hotels in New York, Paris, Geneva, Beirut and Marrakech, Garcia transformed the 125-room hotel from an old world luxury property typical of Monte-Carlo into a more contemporary location unlike any other in the Principality. Jacques Garcia adapted his “Signature Designs” style within the property, evoking warmth and attitude to create a luxurious, Mediterranean interior. In 2019, Jacques Garcia reaffirmed his mark by reviving the hotel's famous Suite Carré d'Or. “We have only updated the premises. The hotel does not need to be changed. It pleases and has always pleased. You don't change mythical places, you only constantly readapt them!”.
- Karl LAGERFELD, Fashion designer
The master of reinvention, Karl Lagerfeld has repeatedly transformed himself and his labels. In 2012, Lagerfeld was brought on to design the Hotel Metropole Monte- Carlo pool-area, creating an “haute couture” setting now known as Odyssey. The pool concept features a unique fresco-styled glass installation around the heated sea-water pool portraying Ulysses’ journey as well as beautifully-curated gardens, private cabanas, a pool house and a restaurant.
Lagerfeld was the creative director of Chanel and Fendi and had previously designed for Chloe.
- Béatrice ARDISSON, Sound Designer
Béatrice Ardisson serves as the Sound Designer for Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo and Spa Metropole by Givenchy where she curates the music played throughout the restaurant and lounge areas, creating an intimate atmosphere tailored to the hotel’s chic and sensual ambiance of “Riviera Glamour.” Thrilled to work on this project for Hotel Metropole alongside famous artists and designers such as Karl Lagerfeld, inspiration came easily and she immediately composed a sleek and contemporary musical atmosphere.
A mixed composer, Ardisson holds prior experience as sound designer for the 90’s TV show “Paris Dernière,” which resulted in the release of several internationally distributed records. She also worked with prestigious brands such as Louis Vuitton, Jules & Jim and more. She has composed original soundtracks on themes chosen by the hotel: quiet by day, rising to crescendo in the evenings.
- Christophe CUSSAC, Head Chef
Since 2004, Chef Christophe Cussac has brilliantly supervised the restaurants of the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo. After studying at the Paris hotel school and a spell at the "Royal Monceau", where he did his training, Christophe Cussac had a determining encounter in his career: Joël Robuchon, then Chef of the "Concorde Lafayette". He followed him to the Hotel Nikko, the "Les célébrités" restaurant, and then to the "Jamin". After an experience at the "Troisgros" restaurant, he was called back by his roots to take charge of the kitchen at the Abbaye Saint-Michel, in Tonnerre, where he obtained 2 stars in the Michelin Guide. The chef's culinary DNA was shaped by his experiences at the head of different establishments: while at Tonnerre, Christophe Cussac developed a cuisine based on the Burgundy region, Mediterranean influences were to take precedence when he arrived at La Réserve de Beaulieu in 1997. Joël Robuchon then called him back to him in 2004 for the opening of the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo as Chef des Cuisines. His high standards, his rigour and his love for refined and gourmet cuisine enabled him to win 2 macaroons once again. An adventure that he continues today by supervising the hotel's three restaurants, Yoshi, the only starred Japanese restaurant on the Côte d'Azur, the Lobby Bar and Odyssey, where he offers southern cuisine, before the opening of his new gastronomic restaurant in Spring 2023.
- Serge ETHUIN, General Manager
After graduating from Hotel Management School Strasbourg in 1982, Serge Ethuin began his career with the Hilton Group in 1983 as a receptionist at Hilton Paris and later in Strasbourg and Orly. Holding a variety of managerial roles with the Hilton group, Serge Ethuin started as business development manager at Hilton Paris where he was involved in the daily operational and functional responsibilities for the property, before taking on the role of deputy manager for London Hilton On Park Lane and then general manager at Hilton Madagascar. He later moved on to Hilton Rome Airport and Hilton Arc de Triomphe.
In 2008, Serge Ethuin embarked on a new chapter in his career as head of Rome’s most legendary establishment: Rome Cavalieri, the first European hotel to be integrated in the prestigious Waldorf-Astoria Collection. During his six years at Rome Cavalieri, Serge Ethuin significantly expanded the emerging market business for the hotel and played an instrumental role in the success of La Pergola, the hotel’s three Michelin Star Restaurant, as well as the Grand Spa Club and the property’s highly- prized private art collection. In 2011, Serge Ethuin was recognized as “Best General Manager” by Waldorf Astoria Worldwide.
After 30 years with the Hilton Group, Serge Ethuin took the reins of the Royal Monceau Raffles Paris, establishing the Palace’s prestigious reputation in the Parisian and international hotel industry.
In December 2015, this accomplished professional took over as General Manager of the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo.
ROOMS & SUITES
Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo consists of 125 rooms and suites, all of which demonstrate the art of comfort and refinement. Designer Jacques Garcia, who has decorated some of the world’s most renowned hotels, composed a design that at once blends warmth and luxury with chic and cozy tones.
Decorated in Mediterranean style, each room appears to have stepped out of a scene on nobility. For instance, interior furniture is shaped in scroll formation with refined fabrics and a palette of glowing and shimmering hues, finished with a honey-colored wood varnish.
Space and comfort
The most crucial feature in each suite’s décor is the exposure to natural light. Out of the 125 rooms, 64 are suites with separate sitting-rooms and a balcony for the bedroom.
The bathrooms are finished with white Carrara marble, massage jet showers, large bathtubs and double-hand basins.
The largest suite in the hotel, Suite Carré d’Or is Hotel Metropole’s sumptuous penthouse, offering the “ultimate” in luxury and glamour.
Featuring 2,500 square feet (240 m²), the Suite and its terrace demonstrate exemplary balance between exquisite taste and indoor/outdoor refinement, offering 180 degree views of Monte-
Carlo, the “Golden Square,” Casino gardens and the Mediterranean sea.
A spectrum of glowing hues
Just as ravishing on the inside, the spectrum of natural light through the floor-to-ceiling windows complements the ivory patina décor, honey-colored parquet floors, Louis XVI furniture and dotting of majestic artwork.
A bookcase with an enticing collection of original works is also available for those who wish to read within the room or terrace. A prominent master bedroom opens out to a dressing-room with a vanity cupboard and bathroom, featuring a tub and massage jet shower.
A mix of tradition and modernity, the space is sculpted and adorned as the premier destination for comfort in Monaco.
“This suite is very aptly named, as it is the most beautiful suite in Monaco, offering an unimpeded view of the Mediterranean and the Casino which is, in architectural terms, one of the Principality’s legends that continues to make us dream of a certain exoticism, admittedly outdated, but still valid. Everything here is subservient to luxury. The idea is thus to endow it with more, not ostentatiously, but through elegance, comfort, culture and refinement.” - Jacques Garcia
A UNIQUE GASTRONOMIC DESTINATION
- YOSHI* - THE UNIQUE MICHELIN STAR JAPANESE RESTAURANT IN THE FRENCH RIVIERA
*Yoshi means "goodness" in Japanese
Yoshi is the only Japanese restaurant on the Côte d'Azur to have been awarded a Michelin star since 2010. In the kitchen, Chef Takeo Yamazaki and his team give their all to make this star shine. The sober and chic decoration, designed by French interior designer Didier Gomez, combines the preciousness of ebony wood, stone or silk with the light of green, white or ivory. The restaurant opens onto a Japanese-inspired garden designed by landscape architect Jacques Messin. The light and serene atmosphere is in perfect harmony with this sunrise cuisine.
Divine goodness*
With the complicity of Chef Takeo Yamazaki, the challenge was met: to offer Yoshi a healthy and modern cuisine, typically Japanese, adapted to the palates of Westerners. Open kitchen and sushi bar to fully admire the expertise; sushi, makis and sashimis, fish or meat cooked with teppanyaki compete for freshness accompanied by the best Japanese sake, whiskies or green teas. Yoshi? You come here out of curiosity, you are seduced by the quality, you come back for pleasure.
- THE LOBBY BAR
It is in the heart of the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo that regulars and newly arrived guests, families; businessmen and businesswomen meet in a harmonious and peaceful way. The poetic nature of the place, reinvented by the architect-decorator Jacques Garcia, allows you to instantly escape, whether alone or in good company. This "magician of atmospheres" knew how to create the right conditions for the awakening of the senses... the elegance of its setting reminds us of the cosy charm of an English club with carpets, woodwork, old books and deep armchairs. Under the central glass roof, the space into the décor of a large Florentine villa lounge. Several times a year, the hotel creates magnificent scenographies: the "moods", aesthetic variations of whimsical and poetic moods. From the lobby to the « Restaurant Metropole Monte-Carlo » to the staff's ties and scarves, these seem to reinvent the Metropole each time. Colours, fabrics, floral and vegetal decoration echo each other and the moods thus become the material for "innovative" creations according to the seasons. Senses awaken in these ephemeral atmospheres, with seasonal floral artistic touches, as well as in the warm presence of antique and collector's items. The Lobby Bar of the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo is a warm setting for delicious moments to share over coffee or tea, lunch or dinner. Here, the service is continuous throughout the day and evening. It is also the ideal place to taste the personalized cocktails of the Chef Barman, Mickaël Bellec, and to discover rare and precious liquors. The musical atmosphere signed by Béatrice Ardisson accompanies each of these delightful moments of life.
- ODYSSEY BY KARL LAGERFELD
Happy is he, who like Ulysses, has returned from a long journey... and discovered Odyssey. The stopover is beneficial, the place reenergising, time stands still. Swimming pool, terrace, restaurant, gardens, pool house: each space and element merges into one around the heated seawater pool, in a burst of light purposely intended by the fashion designer and photographer Karl Lagerfeld. With the fascinating photographic fresco with glass screens dedicated to the adventures of the Greek hero, reality takes over myth in an epic version revisited by the artist. The moment is unique, a Metropole exclusive to hotel residents and members of the Spa Metropole by Givenchy, during the day. As the seasons go by, the place changes. Its sky, overcast in winter, clears in spring. Its walls fade and its horizon widens. The restaurant area gives way to comfortable sunbathing around the swimming pool, and the terrace, in the protective shade of large white sails, is cooler and cooler. The characters of the fresco, immutable, initiate the wanderlust. Executive Chef, Christophe Cussac, proposes a tasty Mediterranean cuisine, light and fresh dishes that will be appreciated by those who follow the wellness program of the Spa Metropole by Givenchy. During summer evenings, dinners under the stars are a must in this exceptional setting.
SPA METROPOLE BY GIVENCHY
In April 2017, the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo unveiled its brand new gem: the Spa Metropole by Givenchy. An exceptional world of beauty and well-being re-imagined by designer Didier Gomez. Harmonies in black, white and gold, reflecting the brand's esthetic codes. One of the spa's original features: a digitalized wall of natural vegetation, giving it a poetic and futuristic breath of fresh air.
An icon of French fashion and a flagship of excellence in cosmetics, Givenchy has created here a unique address, a real ode to the pleasures of the spa and its beneficial offerings. Givenchy skincare products such as Le Soin Noir, L’Intemporel and Hydra Sparkling rely on the latest scientific discoveries for targeted solutions for all skin types. This is an essential step in your beauty routine that can be prolonged by the Givenchy Le MakeUp range, which offers creative expression, advanced formulas and the brand’s extraordinary colour expertise.
All ten treatment rooms are decorated in nuanced shades of white, with embossed walls that evoke the lace of Haute Couture gowns. These include a double suite and a single suite equipped with a bath and private hammam. The spa offers a “Heat Experience” package, which includes the sauna, hammam, caldarium, ice fountain and sensory showers. It also boasts a gym with all the latest equipments as well as a Pedi:Mani:Cure studio by Bastien Gonzalez.
Last but not least, a dedicated Givenchy beauty boutique brings together all the brand’s products, from makeup and skincare to fragrances. The exclusive L’Atelier de Givenchy fragrance collection makes its debut here in Monaco.
PEDI:MANI:CURE STUDIO BY BASTIEN GONZALEZ
Bastien Gonzalez, foot specialist to the stars, is famous worldwide for his glamorous and unique approach to foot treatments.
Gonzalez started skiing at a young age and then became seriously injured during a racing competition, leaving him in six months of physiotherapy, where he eventually met a podiatrist who inspired him to pursue a career in Podiatry training. Soon thereafter, Bastien moved to Paris to start his three-year Podiatry training.
With a passion for his profession, Bastien has developed innovations in podiatry, earning the privileged status of “Foot Virtuoso”.
The uniqueness of his concept lies in the fusion of well-being and beauty. His treatment protocols are mainly focused on the nails and their shine – using a natural buffing technique passed down to him from his grandmother.
Unlike other foot treatments, his pedicure and manicure services include a relaxing, genuine massage – relieving any tensions from toes to the legs or from fingertips to the arms.
Most notably, the ultimate in luxury pampering for the hands and feet includes “Bastien’s Duo,” a multi-awarded treatment which consists of a synchronized four hand pedicure and manicure treatment that focuses on feet, legs, hands and arms.
JUST FOR YOU
Tasting the Mediterranean art of living on wonderful excursions amidst spell-binding scenery where the heart beats a little faster. Discovering sites which tell tales of men and localities bearing the signs of authenticity. Initiating children in gastronomy while having the greatest fun. Playing the role of James Bond for an entire day and night. Saying “I do” while fully submerged in the Mediterranean Sea off the Principality. Discover the seas of the world and more than 6,000 specimens, armed only with a flashlight, for an unforgettable night at the Museum. To enjoy personalized leisure activities like precious personal gifts, the Metropole Monte-Carlo has created an exclusive range of things to do, off the beaten track.
They comprise a choice of exclusive activities called "Just for You“. To set you dreaming, explore these proposals for excursions to the heart of nature, cultural visits and days of strong sensations, giving "Just for You" its most enchanting colors…
The program of these activities can be consulted on www.metropole.com, section Just For You.
KCLUB - A VIP KIDS CLUB
During summer holidays, the KClub of the Hotel Metropole Monte- Carlo will be whisking children into a whirl of entertainment.
Whether blue-eyed angels or adorable little monsters, the Metropole's KClub rolls out the red carpet for children aged 4 to 12. Games, entertaining workshops, a festive holiday atmosphere for having fun and experiencing the joys and happiness of childhood to the full… At the KClub, the hotel's youngest residents can play to their hearts' content in an environment where everything has been planned for just that purpose. Two fully qualified BAFA monitors orchestrate the activities proposed each day. To make things even more exciting, the KClub goes one further by hoisting the flag of dreams, adventure and the imagination, through a magical formula on a very colourful theme. Children are, in fact, invited to plunge into the world of Pirates and Mermaids accompanied by figurines of Yoshi, the hotel mascot, and friend Yumi. In addition, a multilingual babysitter service is available through the hotel's Concierges Clefs d'Or.
GREEN ATTITUDE
At all of its various operating levels, the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo gives pride of place to a pro-active approach to sustainable development.
A commitment 100% environmentally friendly… to pursue, each year, an on-going series of concrete actions aimed at preserving the environment. At the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo, the strategy has taken the form of ratification of the Eco-responsibility Charter of Monaco's Young Economic Chamber in 2010, and winning the “Green Key" label in 2011.
Many other examples testify to the hotel's environmental friendliness, such as the staff's working protocols and day-to-day efforts to shrink the hotel's energy footprint. Observation of an entire array of ecological procedures, increased awareness of the Metropole's environmental policy… a real “Green-Attitude” has been adopted here, which is constantly implementing new ideas thanks to a Green Committee to whom each member can suggest fresh initiatives in the field.
A touch of green for a better world
The Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo has joined the initiative of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation: “Monaco commit against Deforestation”. A strong commitment to the environment, expressed through acts which form part of an evolutionary approach to quality. The Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo pursues its mobilization to protect the planet.
In real terms, ratifying the project's Wood Charter means that the establishment will undertake to significantly reduce its consumption of paper (goal: 10% less per year on average).
In line with its environmental identity the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo launched in 2017 the reforestation of a burnt hillside overlooking the town of Menton. The “My very own tree” project was developed in concertation with the Municipality of Menton and the "Office National des Forêts“. The Green Committee headed by Elodie Robert, Head of Sustainable Initiatives at the Metropole, jointly crafted a highly symbolic action: giving olive-tree seeds to its staff member’s children so that they could plant new trees on the burnt-down site. Guests may also take part in the project by sponsoring the acquisition of new trees.
Eco-friendly fish products
In 2015, the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo ratified the "Mr Goodfish" convention. Another landmark in the hotel's commitment towards the preservation of endangered marine species. Which translates into fish caught by responsible fisheries on tables in the hotel's restaurants, all very enticing thanks to cuisine giving priority to species other than the classics so well-known by gastronomic fans of the bounty of the sea.
Ban the straws!
The Hotel Metropole was the first hotel in the Principality to have banned plastic straws. This action reaffirms the Hotel’s commitment to reduce plastic waste, and specifically the hazards caused to marine life. However, in order to maintain the quality standards of the beverages served to our customers, some cocktails will keep PLA straws – a fully biodegradable material.
