Fairmont Hotel Monte Carlo *****

The Fairmont Hotel, Monte Carlo is an amazing hotel with a great feel. My home base for two nights in Monaco, the Fairmont had it all – high roller nightlife, a casino, great restaurant, hip and trendy bar and a calm and beautiful spa.

Nighttime Fairmont Monte Carlo hairpin turn

Key Location

In the heart of the action, this hotel is right next door to the infamous Casino de Monte-Carlo. Its location was key. In fact it’s walking distance to the best people watching in the world. Outdoor cafés and great dining options are plentiful. There is a bus line directly across from the hotel entrance and riding it all over Monaco was a snap. Some buses go straight to the Nice Airport.

Desk area

Accommodations

At first glance the hotel can seem overwhelming, but looks are deceiving. Because, although the Fairmont is the largest hotel in the area, it still had a small hotel feel. Check-in is seamless and we were in our room within minutes of arrival. The hotel was filled to capacity so our room was not facing the incredible views of the Mediterranean Sea, however we enjoyed our lovely patio complete with a lounge chair and nice sitting area. The room itself is bathed in beautiful tropical colors, soothing to the mind and soul. There is plenty of room to stretch out and a lovely desk area to work from. We love the fluffy robes and top quality toiletries that make the stay feel luxurious.

One highlight of the hotel is the fantastic Willow Stream Spa. I love a relaxing signature massage and it took the fatigue of travel right out of my body. It’s the best way to shake off jet lag and work out the kinks. My massage therapist worked wonders with her technique and I left feeling completely rejuvenated ready to start my hectic day. I highly recommend booking an appointment in advance and allocating enough time to enjoy the tranquil spaces.

Another unique feature of the hotel is the Bar and Lounge. It’s open 24 hours a day and I can see why – the views of the sea are to die for. They say that New York is the city that never sleeps, but I suspect that Casino goers and nightclubbers in Monte Carlo can give the New Yorkers a run for their money!  The decor is hip and modern but classy and the glassware they served drinks in were really interesting! You have to have a drink there during the day to appreciate the view, but a drink at night is also called for as the landscape shows off the moon glistening on the water.

Fairmont Monte Carlo Terrace

Outdoor Pool & Terrace

The pool area is spectacular – located on the roof and overlooking the panoramic views of the sea, it’s a great spot to enjoy some sun while feasting on the architectural wonders dotting the steep hillside. I observed a few families with children having a ball frolicking in the warm water and it made me miss my boys who I know would jumpright in!

Fairmont Monte Carlo dining room

Foodies Delight

Foodies would be in heaven with the lavish breakfast hot and cold buffets and the coffee served was some of the best I’ve tasted in Europe. The breakfast area is a charming spot overlooking the water and it was a pity we had to have the shades lowered as the winter sun proved to be too much in the morning, but we still enjoy basking in its warmth while feasting on crusty French bread and tasty beignets.

Cooking Class Fairmont Monte Carlo with Chef Claire Verneil

I know first hand from tasting the delicious and gorgeous creations by pastry Chef Claire Verneil that it is well worth spending a few calories on their pastries. Chef Verneil has since moved on, but the the current chefs are a talented group as well.  Folks interested in a cooking class will enjoy the various offerings they have culinary-wise.

Welcome amenity Fairmont Monte Carlo

Personalized service is something that I know the Fairmont chain is committed to and I was delighted with the personal welcome note along with a bowl of fresh strawberries and local red berries along with a delicious bottle of red wine and nightly treats at turn down service time. It takes so little to make a stay away from home feel welcoming and the Fairmont made a huge effort to ensure that our time there was truly special.

Location

Fairmont Hotel Monte Carlo

12, Avenue des Spélugues
Monte Carlo
Monaco
98000

Although my stay was gratis, the opinions are my own.

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