Monaco’s first port of call for the discerning visitor is the Hôtel de Paris. Recently it underwent a multi-billion-dollar refresh. Words by Selma Day.

Monte Carlo's Hôtel de Paris has welcomed kings, princes, heads of state and the great.

It is just one of those places where you’re constantly rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous.

The hotel, built in 1864, commands a prime spot in the centre of Monaco, in the Place du Casino.

It is close to all the designer shops, restaurants and, of course, the casino.

And, like the square itself, it has undergone a massive transformation, with no expense spared.

The whole place has been given a four-year, multi-billion-dollar makeover, including the addition of a new outdoor courtyard and a further restaurant – Ômer – by Alain Ducasse.

There are revamped interior spaces and bedrooms, as well as two exceptional new suites. One (pictured) bears the name of Princess Grace of Monaco, paying homage to her timeless elegance.

Set over two floors, this spacious suite is ideal for groups of friends and families. There is a spectacular outdoor space with heated
infinity pool, adjoining outdoor lounge and jacuzzi.

There are also sweeping views over the Mediterranean and the Prince’s Palace.

Guests at the suite are treated to a private Meet & Greet service at the airport or heliport.

They can also take advantage of a private wine cellar and open bar. Plus there's a dedicated private room at the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo spa in winter and a tent at the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel’s private beach during the summer.

Prince Rainier III Suite

The largest suite in the hotel is the Prince Rainier III Suite. It has two bedrooms and the possibility to extend with a third adjoining room – all overlooking Place du Casino.

The suite has its own steam shower and sauna. There's a private bar in the lounge, office space and a large terrace with infinity pool complete with wave system.

Monte-Carlo Suite

For the ultimate gaming experience – and only reserved for the Casino de Monte-Carlo’s top customers – is the Monte-Carlo Suite.

This features an English Roulette table and a Punto Banco or Black Jack table for up to 10 people.

Choice of exquisite eateries

For food, the hotel has its famous three Michelin-starred restaurant Le Louis XV-Alain Ducasse à l’Hôtel de Paris, with its 600,000-bottle wine cellar.

Or, for more relaxed dining, choose Ômer. Here you'll find a Mediterranean-influenced menu, with an emphasis on sharing.

Situated on the ground floor of the new Rotunde wing of the hotel, the restaurant overlooks the hotel’s charming gardens.

Up on the eighth floor, The Grill, which won its first Michelin star in January, has also been given a more contemporary design.

It has a modernised wood-fired rotisserie, a new private Winston Churchill lounge and an extended outdoor terrace for guests to enjoy the views.

Don’t miss pastry chef Olivier Berger’s soufflé masterpieces or the “Cigare” on the dessert menu – a reference to Winston Churchill’s love of cigars.

Of course, if you want to really follow in the footsteps of Churchill, treat yourself to a real cigar on the terrace and a glass of champagne at the Bar Américain. Pol Roger, of course!

This article first appeared in the Mayfair Times.

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