Monte Carlo Bay

Monaco

The Principality of Monaco is a city-state, the second smallest after the Vatican and the world’s most densely populated country. But these statistics of course, say nothing about the attraction and the glamour surrounding Monaco. This jewel of the Côte d’Azur continues to fascinate people the world over. Princess Grace, the former American actress, Grace Kelly, is a symbol of this glamour. Her encounter with Prince Rainier and her tragic end are part of a contemporary legend, a modern fairy tale.

Monaco however, is not limited to the presence of celebrities even though a large concentration of luxury hotels, some of the world’s most magnificent yachts and boutiques bearing the names of the most famous designers and stylists are commonplace here. Monaco is also the venue for important festivals, a world famous oceanography museum and monuments which attract a host of tourists. Located next to the Hotel de Paris and behind the Opera House, the Monte Carlo Casino is another international site attracting visitors from all over the world.

Monaco has its own special art de vivre and its own vision of luxury which visitors can discover by strolling through the picturesque streets of the old quarter at the end of which, from above the famous Monaco Rock, one can observe the changing of the guard, hoping to see the Prince himself leaving the palace. Monaco is a living fantasy which continues to overwhelm visitors while keeping its historical heritage intact.

The American Way of Luxury

The Monte Carlo Bay has no qualms about using superlatives to describe it. Since it opened in 2004, this ambitious project has awakened the hotel industry in Monaco which had a tendency to rest on its laurels. As an American style resort, the Bay proposes a very relaxed version of luxury. Lightness, pleasure and entertainment are the key concepts here.

The imposing contemporary architecture of the hotel is a foreshadowing of its chic and its emphasis on recreational activities. There is no stiff formal service here nor is there a dress code. The Bay puts its guests at ease immediately and demonstrates its own concept of luxury in Monaco. We are in a seaside resort since the sea plays a major role here and is the dominant element. In the monumental lobby, the conciergerie and the reception area stand face to face in the midst of marine illustrations carved into the marble.

We then discover an establishment where all the spaces are generous in size giving an impression of infinity. We stroll as if in a daydream, enchanted by the simplicity and the modern aspect of a hotel which is effervescent, family friendly and equipped with every possible comfort. The 334 rooms and suites possess the same relaxed spirit with touches of unostentatious design. Guests discover certain classical pieces of contemporary furniture like the Barcelona  Chair, an element of sophistication underlining the elegance of the hotel. 75 percent of the rooms have a spectacular view of the Mediterranean.

The hotel has 4 restaurants. The Blue Gin serves an inventive and surprising light cuisine in a clever blend of nuances and tastes which will satisfy even the most demanding palates. There are two outdoor restaurants enabling guests to enjoy the space for which the Bay is famous. Located on a peninsula, the hotel possesses 4 hectares of garden, an artificial lagoon with a sand bottom and a heated outdoor swimming pool. The lagoon is the pride of the hotel and adds to its reputation as a venue for leisure and relaxation which is absolutely unique in the Principality.

Add to this earthly paradise a Cinq Mondes spa with its internationally renowned treatments and a casino within the walls of the hotel, and you have the Bay, a universe of its own! The blend of exoticism and the sophistication typical of the Côte d’Azur gives the Monte Carlo Bay all the attributes necessary for attracting a fast growing type of clientele in search of affordable but refined luxury.

The hotel’s casino, which is only available to guests of the Bay, opens at two P.M. every day. The décor is the work of Pierre-Yves Rochon making it a must visit even for non gamblers!