Site Inspection: Regent Carlton Cannes

As the legendary “Grand Dame” of the Croisette, the iconic Regent Carlton Cannes has emerged more dazzling than ever after a monumental restoration. The historic Belle Époque facade remains breathtakingly preserved, giving way to a $660 million redesign that interweaves contemporary style into the historic foundations through details like pink Venini chandeliers, original gold gilded finishes uncovered in the lobby, and a color palette inspired by the colors of the Côte d'Azur.

What immediately sets the Regent Carlton Cannes apart is its central location on the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, footsteps from the beach and the site of the iconic Cannes Film Festival. Guests stay in the center of all the glitz and glamour that Cannes has to offer.

The property itself boasts 332 newly redesigned guest rooms and suites, decorated in Art Deco style, featuring curved edges, clean lines, and shades of cream and turquoise reminiscent of classic 1920s French Riviera elegance. Many rooms boast views of the shimmering Mediterranean Sea and feature lavish touches like Acqua di Parma bath amenities, signature mattresses by DUX, and marble-lined bathrooms. Several one- and two-bedroom suites have spacious terraces perfect for an early evening aperitif overlooking the sea.

The rooms and suites surround a lush private garden and swimming pool in the interior courtyard. Tall palm trees dot the courtyard while guests relax poolside shaded by intimate canvas cabanas. The atmosphere evokes the allure of classic old Hollywood, fitting for a hotel that has hosted some of the biggest stars during the Cannes Film Festival since the 1930s.

The Le C Club Spa at Carlton Cannes has a soothing and tranquil atmosphere for guests to indulge in specialized treatments - everything from expert gold and green caviar facials to anti-aging body rituals. Le C Club also has a couples suite with side-by-side massage tables and regular yoga, air boxing and aqua tone classes overlooking the sea.

The hotel offers two main restaurants - The Riviera Restaurant and Rüya. Riviera is a classic Mediterranean brasserie that serves locally-sourced “sun-drenched” dishes daily and their classic lobster & champagne on Fridays. Rüya offers a sophisticated and contemporary take on Anatolian cuisine alongside exotic Turkish-inspired cocktails exuding flavors of cardamom, rose, pomegranate, citrus and mint. Guests can also order light meals and drinks at the Carlton Beach Club, stop by Bar°58 for elegant cocktails and live jazz, or visit the Camelia Tea Lounge for a global selection of the finest teas and live harpist performances.

Perfectly situated to explore Cannes, guests of the Regent Carlton Cannes have immediate access to exclusive shopping, beaches, casinos and nightlife just steps outside the front door. Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) is a quick 15 minutes away, as are other nearby excursions accessible by land or sea.

The Regent Carlton Cannes brings together history, luxury, celebrity and Mediterranean glamour into one iconic seaside property - an obvious choice for those wishing to experience the opulence of the Cannes lifestyle and take in the beauty of the Côte d'Azur.

I would recommend the Regent Carlton Cannes for couples seeking an iconic, romantic French Riviera escape, seasoned luxury travelers who admire historic properties with a Hollywood aura, and groups of friends or families looking for ample space with five-star service. The restoration of the Regent Carlton Cannes has cemented its place as the crown jewel of the Croisette. Contact me to book your perfect trip to the French Riviera!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Cannes, France. In need of further inspiration? Check out Whitney Fessler’s guide, Wine, Castles & Holidays in Alsace, France.