Less than one week before the start of the Cannes Film Festival, May 14-25, hotels in the French city are getting ready to welcome the world of international cinema. Between new gourmet menus, new beauty products, and renovations, the hotels have spared no expense to prepare for the arrival of such illustrious guests. Here, we take a look at the most notable updates to three of the most iconic luxury hotels in Cannes.
Majestic Barrière
Frequented by movie stars year after year, the Majestic has undergone a makeover for May 2014. The renovation was overseen by interior architect Jean-Philippe Nuel, who has designed the interiors of several luxury hotels and cruise ships. The hotel’s private beach has been outfitted with an entirely eco-friendly and removable deck, the first of its kind on the Croisette. The structure can accommodate 100 guests for lunch and dinner or up to 200 guests for cocktails. There is also a VIP area where clients can reserve day beds, and there is room for up to 400 mattresses on the sand. A lounge area will be opened in July and August. The dining area, with room for up to 600 guests, has also been revisited. The hotel’s gourmet restaurants offer a choice between Mediterranean and Japanese cuisine concocted by chefs Maryan Gandon and Toyofumi Ozuru.
More information and reservations: www.lucienbarriere.com
Intercontinental Carlton
To its 343 rooms and suites, the renowned hotel has added the “Gilles Jacob.” This 80 square meter suite, located on the first floor, was inaugurated by the president of the Cannes Film Festival himself, who has been a loyal patron of the hotel since 1976. Decorated in a “Belle époque” style, the suite is priced at between €1,320 and €6,200 per night (around $1,840 – $8,640) depending on the season. However, the suite is just one part of an extensive $6 million renovation program. The carpets in the hallways, the interior design in the restaurant and the rooms, and the marble architectural details in the common areas have all been updated. But loyal clients shouldn’t worry: the hotel has preserved its character as well as the marks left by celebrities through the ages.
More information and reservations: www.intercontinental-carlton-cannes.com
Grand Hyatt Cannes Hôtel Martinez
The illustrious hotel on the Croisette is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its famous private beach and restaurant, the Zplage. Guests will find a new menu highlighting some of the ingredients that have left their mark on the past decade, each of which is offered in three different culinary creations. In addition, the hotel is introducing an exclusive new line of bath and beauty products in its rooms. Cannes-based perfumer Isabelle Burdel created this unique collection, which features notes of verbena, jasmine, rosewood, patchouli, amber and sandalwood.
More information and reservations: Cannesmartinez.grand.hyatt.fr
