Hiding Away on the French Riviera

The Hotel Negresco, Nice GE — This is the "grande dame" hotel of Nice, with its prominent location on the Promenade des Anglais. It was built at the turn of the century in rococo style, with coffered ceilings, pillars, and marble floors. The hotel features a collection of original artwork worthy of The Louvre; each floor's theme is a different period of French history, with antiques and paintings to match. The suite we toured featured ornate 17th-century French decor, with gold filigree work, lots of marble, and a glassed-in bath with large soaking tub. Even their smallest room is good-sized. The hotel has its own private beach club in summer, but no swimming pool. They do have a fitness room available. Le Chantecler is the hotel's two-star Michelin restaurant; its second restaurant, La Rotunde, features a festive merry-go-round theme. Rates start at €213 in the off-season and €267 high season. Members save up to 10%.

Spring/Summer 2002