Because You Cannes-Cannes-Cannes :: The Fabulous French Riviera
Hotel 3-14
The Hotel 3-14 is fabulous; the design is modern, with little ’warm touches’ that keep it from being too sterile. Decorated in a global style, each of the seven floors of the hotel represents a different continent; from the lighting in the hallways to the decor in the rooms, the feeling is refined, comfortable, and whimsical without being campy. Public spaces are also multi-culturally inspired, featuring "disco bowl" tables, modern Indian-inspired lobby (pictured), and blend of textures and fabrics that keeps it interesting, fresh, and fun.
Speaking of fun, the hotel definitely encourages it- especially if said fun is of the romantic nature. Along with your standard sodas, liquors, and snacks, in-room mini bars are also stocked with "love kits," a mood-enhancing CD, and a couple of "marital aids" for both his and her pleasure. Up on the rooftop you’ll find one of the most unique and beautiful pools in the city. Floating on your back surrounded by palm trees and stone, you’d never know you were in the middle of downtown. The terrace also features a few little ’hideaway cays’ where cohabitants can sneak away and "mingle" (and remember, this is France so there’s no need to worry about being a same-sex couple... or about being shy!). Make sure you don’t miss the Jacuzzi either- it’s slightly secluded and overlooks the Carlton hotel and the beach.
Hotel Renoir
The owners and designers behind the Hotel Renoir have managed to pull-off a feat rarely done correctly in the design world: beautifully marrying classic architecture with contemporary style. How did they do it? I can’t tell you all the secrets, but when you visit, you’ll find light colors, clean lines, simple decor, plenty of space, and modern amenities- as well as excellent service and perhaps a wink from Hepburn or Garbo!
Bathrooms at the Renoir are large- especially by European standards. If you can swing it, go for a suite; they’re well worth the upgrade. Aside from a spacious bedroom, you’ll get a large sitting room with desk and dining table, as well as a marble bathroom with a separate shower and large tub. Don’t skip breakfast- it’s excellent, and served in the cute little lobby bar where you can get a cocktail or glass of Champagne each night before heading out.
The Hotel Renoir sits just two blocks from one of Cannes’ best shopping street, Les Antibes, which makes it nearly perfect in my book!
Le Cavendish
The last- but certainly not least- hotel I stayed at was the fabulously chic and superbly splendid Hotel Cavendish. A classic French 4-star hotel, Le Cavendish is managed by a fantastic French woman who’s every bit as chic, sophisticated, and charming as any classic French movie star (think equal parts Catherine Deneuve, Fanny Ardent, and Michele Laroque). Madame Messeant-Welter and her husband own the hotel, and most mornings (and often during cocktail hour) you’ll find them sitting with guests in the charming salon, making sure that you’ve had your fill of freshly made croissants, homemade jams, and other treats. The staff is welcoming, friendly, and happy to share their knowledge of the city, as well as make you feel like a member of their extended family rather than someone renting a room.
The hotel has been incredibly restored and features modern amenities, but it hasn’t lost its 19th century charm. Being a traditional French hotel, rooms tend to be relatively small, although what they lack in size they more than make up for in comfort, decor and style. The bathrooms are gloriously modern (without being sterile), and all rooms offer high-speed internet.
Next :: A fabulous villa...
