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Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo - The most elegant hotel in Monaco

Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo is described by Société des Bains de Mer (SBM) as the 'most elegant hotel in Monaco.' It's not difficult to see why.

By Elijah D 9/10/2023
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Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo

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As we closed in on Monaco, the Director of Photography asked me, "What hotel will you be staying in Monaco?" To which I replied. "The Hermitage, " with a smile on my face.

Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo at Night

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The hotel's official name is Hotel Hermitage Monte Carlo. It's often referred to as Hotel Hermitage Monaco, or Hermitage Hotel Monaco, but I refer to it as "The Hermitage." Please humor me.

This was my first trip to Monaco (I didn't make the trip when we filmed the Monaco tour in 2022), and given the principality's size, I hoped to catch as many sights as possible. However, having only one full day at my disposal and being exhausted from filming for four days straight, it was a tall order.

 Salvatore Ferragamo at Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo

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For those who may not be familiar with SBM, it is a publicly-traded company that owns arguably the most prominent properties in Monaco. These include Casino de Monte Carlo, Hotel de Paris, and Hotel Hermitage Monte Carlo.

Casino de Monte Carlo is to Monaco what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. This truly magnifique (as the French would say) building has been featured in numerous high-profile movies, and you're not likely to find any write-up on Monte Carlo that doesn't mention it.

Once I arrived at the hotel, it was obvious right from the front door that I was in for a treat. The elegance of Monaco hit me right away. The Belle- Époque architecture was even more alluring live than in photographs. Here I was at one of SBM's finest, and I didn't have to worry about filming.

View from Hotel Balcony

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The front of the hotel had a handful of exotics cars, and the exquisite-looking Salvatore Ferragamo and Giorgio Armani stores added a nice touch to the front of the building.

These summarized what Monaco means to most people – a playground of the rich and famous. As cliché as that sounds, it's very evident on the streets of Monaco, and the Hermitage unapologetically highlights that fact.

Rooms

Hallway from Lobby Jardin D'hiver

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The Hermitage has a wide range of rooms available, including various "Diamond Suites." Described as the most beautiful suites on the French Riviera, a desire to indulge means you should select one of these during your visit.

The suites have top-notch amenities, including multiple bedrooms, jacuzzis, and elegantly furnished living areas. The top-of-the-line Princely Suite has enough space to accommodate nine people. It has three bedrooms, two terraces, and a gorgeous panoramic view of the Mediterranean.

View of Port Hercule from Hotel Room Balcony

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After a great night's sleep, I woke up to a regatta of sailboats in full view from my balcony. I had no idea if this was a special event or the status quo for every Saturday morning, but that didn't matter. It was a very appealing view from a hotel room - the perfect way to relax after a week of hard work.

Amenities

While you won't find the extensive art collection available at the Negresco, the hotel's interior is no less appealing. Walking through the hallway of the Hermitage from Lobby Beaumarchais to Lobby Jardin D'hiver reveals a very tastefully finished interior similar to what you'd expect to see in a castle. It reminded me of the Palace of Versailles but without the unnecessary extravagance of the infamous palace.

Yannick Alléno à l’Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo Restaurant

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Just after the reception area, you'll encounter Le Limun, a bar/light meal area that's a favorite meeting place for business people. It's a great place to get refreshments after an exhausting afternoon of shopping. Speaking of shopping, there's no shortage of options as you'll find popular designer and jewelry stores in the building or right across the street at Hotel de Paris.

Further down from Le Limun, you'll find Le Crystal, a bar that's great for enjoying drinks with friends or colleagues. An interesting fact about the bar is that it moves to the Excelsior Gardens during the summer, where you can enjoy your evening drinks under the stars.

Dior Store at Hotel Hermitage

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Equipped with a gorgeous pool and solarium, fitness area, and world-class spa services, this place ensures all that French cuisine won't add anything to your waistline. But beyond the fitness options, the relaxing environment and sublime views may entice you to spend most of your time in Monaco here.

Thermes Marins Monte Carlo also houses L'Hirondell restaurant, which specializes in healthy Mediterranean cuisine. Here, you're in the good hands of Chef Jean-Laurent Basile, who has also offered his services at other SBM properties before arriving at L'Hirondell. If you can't get enough of the view of the Mediterranean Sea, you have to opt to dine on the terrace. There's no better way to enjoy a meal.

View of Port Hercule from Hotel Room Balcony

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Looking to host an event? The Hermitage has you covered. Depending on the number of guests you have and the type of event you plan to host, the hotel has multiple options to offer. These include Salon Excelsior and its sea-facing terrace, Salle Belle Epoque with its gorgeous oversized chandelier (great for hosting banquets), and Salon Eiffel, which is more suitable for conferences and meetings.

It goes without saying that the Hermitage left quite an impression. However, it's fair to wonder if I'm now able to cross Monaco off the list of places I plan to visit. The answer to that is; absolutely not. If anything, my short stay only increased my desire to explore the principality.

I didn't get to see the Prince's Palace or visit the good folks at the Oceanographic Museum who were so hospitable while we were filming our Monaco tour. So I'll be going back in Monte Carlo soon. As much as I'd love to experience another one of SBM's hotels, I just don't see myself staying anywhere else but the Hermitage.