Simply Abu Dhabi XXII

1 4 9 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I A top the coastal cliffs of Monte Carlo, the glittering principality along the Mediterranean, the Hôtel Hermitage has stood proudly for more than a century as an iconic palace of luxury. Nestled among the groves of orange and olive trees, the Hermitage appears bathed in golden light, set off by the azure waters of the French Riviera. The wondrous sense of illumination continues inside the neoclassic building, thanks to the remarkable architecture that fuses the traditional splendour of the Belle Époque era with contemporary style and comfort. Monte Carlo is synonymous with luxury, of course, and discerning clientele are spoilt for choice when it comes to high-end accommodations. Still, the Hôtel Hermitage stands out from the crowd: utterly magnificent and dazzling, yet completely warm and inviting. And unlike other European buildings of the same era, which emit a sort of faded glory, the Hermitage is a grand palace that still feels new, fresh, and modern. Built by Monegasque architect Jean Marquet, the Hermitage has evolved through the vision of numerous eminent designers and artists over the years who have helped define the hotel’s style. The astonishing lobby ceiling is the work of artist Gabriel Ferrier, the Prix de Rome and 1889 Universal Exposition Gold Medallist; and nearly a century later, André Levasseur undertook the room’s restoration, highlighting the pink marble columns, framing the crystal chandeliers. Another of the hotel’s wonders, the Jardin d’Hiver (Winter Garden), owes its prestige to the glass conservatory created and erected by disciples of the undisputed master of metal architecture, Gustave Eiffel. Whilst respecting its rich and unsurpassed heritage, the Hôtel Hermitage is regularly modernised to meet the growing expectations of a demanding clientele; most of the property has been freshly renovated in the past several years, every aspect meticulously designed to achieve a harmonious marriage between classic authenticity and technology. As General Manager, Pascal Camia, says: “Since its creation, Hôtel Hermitage has always been evolving, achieving the level of excellence of a Palace. Its creative history also permitted a marriage between respect of tradition and modernity, elegance at its purest form.” Monsieur Camal, who has had an exceptional career in luxury hospitality, manages the hotel on three fundamental pillars: “Excellence, generosity and humility are the key values at Hôtel Hermitage. The question is not only to be of service, but also to remain guarantors of ‘savoir-recevoir’ (welcome know-how) and we are responsible for anticipating every expectation of our guests, in all humility and generosity.” And it is in this spirit that guests are invited to luxuriate in everything the unique and timeless Hôtel Hermitage has to offer, from stunning accommodations, to fine dining, spa treatments and leisure activities. In turn, delighted visitors from the world over have named the hotel a 2015 Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice award winner.