In Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, the former Vista Palace, perched 330 meters above the sea, became The Maybourne Riviera in 2022 and transformed into a 5-star hotel with avant-garde architecture by Jean-Michel Wilmotte. Inside, the 65 rooms and suites, including one with a private pool, all boast spectacular views stretching from Cap-d’Ail to the Ligurian coast. The hotel features an infinity pool, a beach, and six restaurants and bars helmed by the three-Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco. Its new director, Francesco Garcia, welcomes us inside.
With experience leading Cheval Blanc in Courchevel and previous roles at Four Seasons, Hôtel de Crillon, and the Mandarin Oriental in Madrid, Spanish-born Francisco Garcia decided to settle with his family in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin four months ago. "I was immediately captivated by this gem, uniquely and timelessly located, where one feels instantly at ease. The staff is sincere and dedicated, which makes every stay exceptionally warm. What also attracted me was that, although the Maybourne group has a rich history —its first hotel was established in London over 200 years ago— it maintains a youthful spirit and encourages initiatives. We can bring forward our ideas to unlock the full potential of each property, and that’s certainly the case with The Maybourne Riviera!"
Exceptional Décor and Services
Designed by Jean-Michel Wilmotte, The Maybourne Riviera is an architectural marvel that seamlessly integrates its rooms and suites into the rocky landscape. To complete this sumptuous tableau, the hotel enlisted talents from around the world, including Bryan O'Sullivan, André Fu, Rigby & Rigby, and Marcelo Joulia, who envisioned its refined and elegant interiors. From the lobby, adorned with a Le Corbusier masterpiece, to works by JR displayed throughout the floors, and Edward Quinn’s photographs—a friend of Picasso and the jet set of the era—art is omnipresent.
In the rooms, layered textures and splashes of color on custom-designed furniture contribute to uninterrupted views between the room and the sea. Inspired by Eileen Gray’s iconic villa E-1027, visible on the horizon, the surrounding nature, and the seascapes, the designers played with undulating curves. One suite stands out with a white marble bathtub by André Fu, inspired by Brancusi, offering a serene moment overlooking the Mediterranean.
The Maybourne Riviera also boasts six restaurants and bars, including the Michelin-starred Ceto by chef Mauro Colagreco. For a dinner amid sky and sea, head to the 14th floor for breathtaking views. On the plate, marine essences shine through signature recipes such as bluefin tuna with Kombu-aged belly or a sea lettuce ravioli with langoustine and citrus consommé. The blue lobster is paired with a Nice violet artichoke and whisky beurre blanc. During summer, live music concerts on the restaurant’s terrace enliven evenings, offering the perfect occasion to savor a cocktail with marine-inspired notes. The Riviera restaurant embodies the essence of a dreamy Mediterranean with Provençal and Ligurian specialties. By the infinity pool, shared dishes delight, while at the coral-hued beach, reminiscent of the Côte d’Azur’s golden age and Slim Aarons’ photos of the Amalfi coast, diners enjoy linguine alle vongole, grilled lobster and octopus, burrata, and reimagined frozen creations. Lastly, the bar Le 300, named after its altitude above sea level, is a true ode to Mediterranean living. Its cocktails feature fresh, local ingredients, like L’Orangeraie with jasmine tea-infused vodka, Italicus with orange zest, agave syrup, orange blossom, lime juice, all filtered through coconut milk and orange leaf essence.
The spa offers absolute relaxation. Facial treatments by Augustinus Bader, the favorite skincare brand of celebrities, include a signature treatment combining over 40 ingredients and a rejuvenating massage for radiant skin.
For Francisco Garcia, "The Maybourne Riviera is unique on the Côte d’Azur. It has become a haven of peace and a corner of paradise that lets you be at the heart of, yet far from, the hustle and bustle of the French Riviera, especially in summer. On the 4th floor, we have a prestigious event space for professional events, private parties, weddings, and proposals. With our breathtaking view, I can assure you the answer is always 'yes'! We also want to introduce our guests to the surroundings, like Eileen Gray’s Villa E-1027 or Le Corbusier’s cabin, organize coastal path walks, olive oil tastings, artisan meetups, and hotel activities such as cocktail-making or watercolor sessions with an artist. We are already preparing for the next season, which will bring exciting surprises. Some suites will include butler service and exclusive experiences, such as sunset sea excursions or private pool dining. A lounge bar and a new spa concept, Surenne—already featured at The Emory in London—will also debut. Beyond traditional treatments, it will offer longevity-focused therapies."
With an international clientele (from North and South America, Europe, and the Middle East), The Maybourne Riviera has never been busier since its opening. The same is true for its restaurants, half of whose patrons are French and Monegasque. Francisco Garcia is delighted: "This is just the beginning of a unique adventure with exponential potential. And, on top of that, I am surrounded by a particularly dedicated team!"