Words: Zoe Dickens
Who doesn’t love a hotel? Room service, sea views, 24-hour concierge – the creature comforts of a 5-star hotel can make or break the perfect trip. Of course, some do it better than others. And, while you could just check-in to the nearest new Four Seasons or Mandarin Oriental, why not opt for something with a bit more history? Read on for our round up of the iconic hotels that have played host to some of the world’s most famous people and parties…
Hotel du Cap Eden Roc, Antibes
Think of the French Riviera and, whether knowingly or not, it’s almost certainly images of the Hotel du Cap Eden Roc that spring to mind. Currently owned by the Oetker Collection, the Eden Roc has been hosting the who’s who of European society since 1870 with guests including Winston Churchill, Marlene Dietrich and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. A favoured subject of photographer Slim Aarons, the hotel’s proximity to Cannes has also made it the go-to for film stars such as Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, who are reported to have conducted an affair there before returning for their honeymoon. Peak season rates start at €1,250 per night.
Beverly Hills Hotel, Los Angeles
For more than nine decades the Beverly Hills Hotel has been in constant competition with its equally star-studded neighbour, the Chateau Marmont, for the title of Hollywood’s glitziest hang out. For us, however, the Pink Palace gets its. Firstly thanks to its advanced age – it has an extra 17 years of outrageous tales to tell – and secondly because, unlike the Chateau’s more ‘bohemian’ vibe, the Beverly Hills Hotel has always been a beacon of unrestrained glamour. Now run by the Dorchester Collection, the iconic red carpet and striped green roof of the entrance remain, transporting guests back to a time when Vivien Leigh, JFK and Lawrence Olivier were known to secret themselves away in its suites. Rates start at $915.
Hotel Cipriani, Venice
As with the Hotel du Cap Eden Roc, the Cipriani’s proximity to the annual Venice Film Festival has made it a hotspot for privacy-seeking celebrities. Guests ranging from Steven Spielberg and Harrison Ford to Ronald Reagan and Giorgio Armani have all enjoyed the panoramic vistas over Doge’s Palace and the church of St Giorgio from its terrace bar, lounged around the Olympic-sized swimming pool and sipped cocktails at Cip’s Club – home of the original Bellini. Book now from €1,750 per night.
Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, Monaco
When it comes to luxury hotels, Monaco isn’t short of choice. And, while it faces stiff competition from the nearby Hotel de Paris, the Hermitage wins a spot on our list thanks to its incredible views of the Port Hercule – and the superyachts that reside there. Of course, with its stunning Winter Garden, Michelin-starred Vistamar restaurant and spacious spa, there’s plenty more to recommend the Hermitage. Whether you’re a superyacht owner looking for somewhere to sip champagne ashore or a long weekender indulging in some of the best people watching this billionaire’s playground has to offer, secure your room from €680 a night.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out these hotels with amazing art collections…
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