L'Hermitage, Monte Carlo > Reviews (1)

The competition for the most luxurious or most exclusive hotel in Monte Carlo is a vicious one with some heavyweight contenders like the notorious Hotel de Paris or the party destination Monte Carlo Bay Hotel. Yet, as a seasoned South of France traveller, I find that the only truly exquisite hotel which is both discreet and the vision of luxury is L'Hermitage.

Firstly, L'Hermitage is tucked away in Square Beaumarchais which is less than five minutes uphill from the Casino Square. This is particularly good because you don't get the same traffic as you do in other parts of Monaco and you're less likely to have tourists at the door of your hotel (yes, I'm referring to Hotel de Paris). It is a prime location to get to the nearby Chanel store or to take the 'ascenseur publique' down to the port.

The hotel itself is very beautiful with its Belle Epoque features. Since it has recently been refurbished, the style isn't as opulent as some of the other hotels in the area which are from the same era. The color palette in the reception areas are soft on the eyes and noticeably absent is the overwhelming gold which makes so many lobbys look like museums. Instead, everything is creamy and in pale shades which gives it a fresh feel. A must see is the winter garden which has an original Gustave Eiffel (yes, from the Eiffel Tower) dome.

Once you do manage get to the check in desk, you'll realize that they really understand what service is about. The staff is incredibly polite and everything runs very smoothly. If you've stayed before, they are very quick to find your details and might through in a free breakfast in reward for your loyalty. The rooms vary greatly depending on your budget as well as how well you know the concierge. There are modernized wings and an older wings which are both very different both in terms of space and decoration. I always request one of the modern rooms because of the newer carpeting and better entertainment system. The bathrooms are stunning, in white marble and the toiletries can be from either Bvglari or La Praire. They've also given out Khiel's creams which I was very happy about!

In terms of food, L'Hermitage is really special. The room service menu is pretty impressive, one of my favorite things is the Kid's Menu. It may sound like an odd choice, but the Kid's Menu comes with 4 courses and usually enough for me and my husband for a pre-night out meal! Also remarkable is the unusual way they prepare the Club Sandwich The Limun Bar in the Lobby. It is brilliant at tea time!

As for the spa, it is really one of a kind! Within the hotel is Les Thermes Marins de Monte Carlo. This is spa is shared with Hotel de Paris and others parts of the group. The modern structure is incredible and the pool has an adjacent solarium which is both great in winter and summer. The amenities are extraordinary as they include a fully equipped gym, a thalasso, a hamaam and massage rooms facing the Mediterranean! If you can't relax there, you're probably not going to relax anywhere.

Finally, if all that wasn't enough you also get a Carte D'or which serves as your room key. This card will entitle you to free transport inside Monte Carlo by using the SBM bus which takes you across the city stopping in strategic points. Be grateful as the taxi service in Monaco is practically nonexistent and when you do get a taxi, it'll set you back £30 for 2 kms. What's also great: it'll get you in for free at the Monte Carlo Casino (about 15 euros a day), Monte Carlo Beach Club (about 60-70 Euros a day), Monte Carlo Bay Hotel pool (with a sand bottom and lagoon feel) as well as to the exclusive Jimmyz Nightclub. Once you're done partying, a comfortable hotel car will drive you back also complimentary (even at 6am). If you add up all the goodies, it might just make up for the hefty daily rates starting at 385 euros a night for low seasons and 525 a night during the very high season.