A Weekend in Monaco

Monaco may be the second smallest country in the world, but this doesn’t set it back when providing an amalgamation of once in a lifetime experiences. Monaco is known for sheer opulence beyond your wildest dreams, think extravagant Casinos including the world famous “Casino de Monte-Carlo” and a magnificent harbour lined with some of the most sensational super-yachts. 

Monaco is beloved, especially by the Hollywood scene as it has been the scenic backdrops for over 40 iconic blockbusters, including; James Bond: GoldenEye, Iron Man 2 and The Transporter. Monaco is also home to some of the most astonishing hotels and provides an experience like no other, irrespective of first time tourists or regular visitors, the surprises this country has to offer are infinite.

Come to Monaco for the perfect long weekend…

When you arrive in Nice, there is no better way to get to Monaco than via helicopter, over the sparkling waters that line the coast. Monacair provides an unforgettable experience, sit in the front of the helicopter for the best view of the dramatic scenery and glittering crystalline sea.

There is no better place to stay than Hotel Metropole. Upon arrival prepare to have your breath taken away by the architectural design of the hotel. As you drive towards the entrance, you are flaked by an abundance of greenery. Don’t forget to look up and pause for a moment, to take in the golden lights that illuminate this tremendous structure, it is no surprise that it is one of the most famous and beautiful buildings for miles around.

Even the hotel lobby is a masterclass in design, with a magical chandelier that descends from the ceiling to the floor. The walls are adorned with stunning artworks and is the perfect introduction to the level of class, tranquility and beauty that you will experience throughout your stay.

Hotel Metropole offers 8 categories of suites and 2 categories of rooms, including the most luxurious, the incredible Carre D’or Suite rooftop suite. It offers 360-degree views of the entirety of Monaco and vast Mediterranean Sea and is home to an 110m2 patio, living area, superior bedroom equipped with a stunning walk-in wardrobe. 

The bathroom is designed by Jacques Garcia and is decorated in opulent gold and marble. It boasts vast mirrors on the walls, a heavenly bath tub with an LCD television and a powerful jet shower.

There is no better way to spend the afternoon, than enjoying cocktails in the sun, dipping your feet in the cool waters of the pool. At Odyssey restaurant at Hotel Metropole you can do this and so much more. Dine on a delicious menu created by the legendary Joël Robuchon and can be enjoyed by the pool, against the stunning backdrop of the iconic Haute-Couture Odyssey mural that was personally designed by the legendary Karl Lagerfeld.

Indulge on fresh seasonal Mediterranean dishes, to start, opt for the famous Riviera salad with fresh basil, spring vegetables and confit tuna belly or the pizza with Parma ham, artichoke, tomato and marjoram. 

For the main course, the tender Grilled Fillet of Beef with a creamy béarnaise sauce and crispy golden french fries is a winner, as is the incredible grilled John Dory with vegetables from Provence and virgin sauce.

Finally, it is time for dessert, choose fresh fruits and red berries with fruit coulis and cream or from the wide selection of pure fruit sorbets and ice creams.

Hotel Metropole is also home to the famous Givenchy spa. This lavishly appointed spa was designed by Didier Gomez and offers the most indulgent treatments, as well as a multitude of sport activities such as Nordic Walking and Yoga. 

Try one of the Givenchy Interludes, a duo or trio of body and/or facial treatments that are tailored to exceed all of your needs and desires. The Celestial Body Interlude is a favourite, the 120 minute experience features a scrub, wrap and voluptuous body massage. Alternatively opt for one of Givenchy’s massages, a skillful choreographed ritual that is personalised for you. Try the 60 or 90 minute Anti-Gravity treatment which is designed to stimulate blood circulation and remove toxins.

If you want to revitalise, purify and illuminate the skin, try The Toning Scrub or The Pampering Wrap. If you have travelled a long distance, the ‘Anti-Jet Lag Treatment Interlude” is the perfect antidote, with a full body massage and facial treatment.

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The majestic Musée Océanographique de Monaco is a must-visit, it is a palace of fascination that spans 6,500 feet. It is a visual masterpiece dedicated to all kinds of wonderful creatures, including over 2000 species of fish and turtles. This magnificent experience gives visitors the opportunity to learn about all the life that thrives in the deep blue, including the diversity of its inhabitants and the vast coral reefs which are now under threat.

To finish the day in style, enjoy an elegant yet casual dinner in the Lobby Bar at Hotel Metropole. This is the ideal opportunity to indulge in tasty treats inspired by Joël Robuchon, sink into a cosy chair in the low-lit room surrounded by incredible art. This is the kind of place where you can relax with friends, or just sit alone with a good book in hand and a glass of wine.

There is a vast array of hot and cold dishes to choose from. Highlights from the cold dishes include, the signature Lobster Salad with tangy vegetables, Beef Tartare with french fries and green salad and the Thin sliced purple raw artichoke with Parmesan.

If you fancy something hot, opt for the Fried Egg and Zaalouk with Iberian ham and french fries, succulent spit-roasted free-range chicken or the Lobster French Fries which are served with signature spicy sauce. End on a sweet and sour note, with the famous Lemon Tart, served with sweet cream, the perfect end to a perfect evening.

Visitmonaco.com

@monacair

Monacair.mc

Musée Océanographique de Monaco

Avenue Saint-Martin, 98000 Monaco

 @metropolemonaco

Metropole.com

4 Avenue de la Madone, 98000 Monaco, France