With lots of French Riviera sunshine and azure Mediterranean waters, Nice has long been a favorite place to retreat from the cold weather and grey days so prevalent in Paris and in the UK. In fact, starting in the late 18th century, the English came in droves to this French Mediterranean city. During a particularly harsh winter north in 1822, some of the rich Englishmen who had escaped the cold, dreary weather in London built a promenade along the pebbly Nice beach.
The wide, palm-lined Promenade quickly became popular among locals, and today remains a great place not only to soak up some of that Mediterranean sunshine and enjoy a beautiful beachside stroll (the rocky beach itself is rough on the feet), but also to stay – the other side of the road behind the Promenade has beautiful hotels with spectacular views.
The best part about staying near the Promenade Anglais is that you’re also just steps away from Vieux Nice, where can you walk the oldest streets in the city, shop at the daily market and boutiques, and eat and drink to your heart’s content in the cute sidewalk cafes.
And lastly, the Promenade des Anglais is prime real estate if you are planning on spending Carnaval in Nice, as the festivities take place on this beautiful beach walkway and in Vieux Nice.
Hotel Beau Rivage
The hotel has its very own private stretch of beach, is located just two blocks from Massena Square, the Opera house and the famous Nice flower market. In addition to a private beach and prime location, Hotel Beau Rivage is also located in a beautifully renovated 19th century townhouse, which was redesigned in 2004 by famous French architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte.
Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and newspapers in several languages (including the English language International Herald Tribune), or sip on cocktails at Le Bar with stunning beach views. Many locals say it’s the best beach bar in town – and once you settle in to their comfy sofas and have your drink brought to you, you’ll agree.
The hotel’s private pebbled beach is open from April to October and offers umbrellas, sun beds and towels.
Amenities in rooms include minibars, remote lighting/drapery controls private. Beds have linen sheets and white hypo allergenic duvets. High speed Internet access is available for a fee.
Le Méridien Nice
If you are looking to be pampered during your vacation in Nice, look no further. This luxurious hotel is located in a prime beachfront location at number 1 Promenade des Anglais, the most prestigious address in town. You’re literally right in the thick of things – with the Promenade to the right, Vieux Nice to the left and the azure waters of the Med right out the front door.
Le Méridien offers an outdoor heated swimming pool overlooking the the Baie des Anges as well as has a health center complete with gym, sauna, solarium and beauty treatment center.
The 184 newly renovated guestrooms are decorated in neutral tones enlivened by touches of red, light purple and blue to absorb the intensity of the light. The 132 Classic rooms provide upscale comfort in a Mediterranean style.
Le Méridien is adjacent to the Casino Ruhl and just 2 blocks from Vieux Nice.
Palais de la Méditerranée
Those looking for a high-end hotel during their stay in Nice will not be disappointed with the Palais de la Méditerranée, which has long been a famous landmark in Nice. The grand white Art Deco façade created in the 1930s is still fully intact and has been restored to its original splendor, beckoning guests inside to savor the many fascinating delights that this legendary luxury hotel has to offer.
