Simply Abu Dhabi XXXIV

7 1 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I A mid the hustle and bustle of Monte Carlo, Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo is renowned as one of the most intimate luxury hotels in the Principality. True, the building itself is resplendent – an elegantly situated former palace that is a stellar example of the Belle Époque style, the literal meaning of which is “Beautiful Era”, aptly enough. It’s got stunning views, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Yet there’s a warm romantic charm about this five-star hotel that makes each visitor feel as though they’ve found the true hidden gem of Monte Carlo. Think of it as a “discreet prestige” concept. It’s got the grandness of scale and historic-monument status befitting a palace, but with special touches tailor-made to make for an unforgettably exclusive experience. An architectural gem overlooking the sea Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo has enjoyed nearly a century of prestige. At the dawn of the 20th century, Monegasque architect Jean Marquet built an upscale and luxurious hotel, a neoclassical edifice amongst orange and olive trees dottingMonte Carlo, facing the Mediterranean Sea. The pre-eminent designers and artists of the period put their stamp on the hotel’s regal style. The Belle Époque dining room is a testament to the artistic achievements of the period for which it is named. The awe-inspiring ceiling was the work of artist Gabriel Ferrier, the Prix de Rome and 1889 Universal Exposition Gold Medallist, who was inspired by the neo-classical art of the 18th century. Much later, in the 1970s, André Levasseur undertook a significant restoration, highlighting the dining room’s pink marble columns, framing the crystal chandeliers. Another of the hotel’s original wonders is the Jardin d’Hiver (Winter Garden). It owes its prestige to the glass conservatory created and erected by disciples of the undisputed master of metal architecture, Gustave Eiffel. The setting and serenity of the helped make Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo synonymous with excellence and savoir-vivre in Monte Carlo. But this hotel is not stuck in the past, however remarkable that past has been. In the 2000s, substantial modernisation was undertaken, with over 90% of the establishment being renovated in the new century. All of the restorations were meticulously designed to achieve a harmonious marriage between classic authenticity and modern technology. As a result, visitors can rediscover the sights and scents of yesteryear’s gardens through the imaginative talent of Jean Mus, the renowned landscape designer, who was entrusted with Hôtel Hermitage gardens. Then, architect and interior designer Pierre- Yves Rochon, assisted by Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer Studies Department, entirely redesigned the lobby, overseeing the room’s development in a classic style refined with contemporary flair. Architect Joseph Lori led the refurbishments to match the original Belle Époque style, mirroring the façade of the Prince and Beaumarchais wings, in raising the hotel by two storeys. The prestigious Excelsior salon was entirely redecorated, and nine suites in the Midi wing were expanded with the addition of private terraces. Finally, the renovation program concluded with the completion of the Costa and Midi wings, now housing a 400-seat conference room, entirely dug out from bedrock. So, while the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo may evoke the history and splendour of the Belle Époque era, every detail is modernised to meet the stringent requirements of even the most demanding clientele.