Le Provençal: A French Riviera Icon Reimagined
Published 06 September 2024
This iconic hotel, once loved by royalty and old Hollywood stars, is now being transformed by ultra-prime developer Caudwell, creating the ultimate in luxury living.
Fronting onto Boulevard Edouard Baudoin, at the gateway to Cap d’Antibes, this is one of Europe’s most glamorous destinations. Overlooking the glittering coastline with striking sea views, this waterfront address offers easy access to Monaco, Cannes, St Tropez and the Alpes-Maritimes to the north. Not short of activities, the beach and city shopping beckon in the summer, while excellent skiing presents itself during the colder seasons.
A former luxury hotel, Le Provençal transformed the Cote d’Azur into a luxury playground. Pioneered by American millionaire Frank Jay Gould, the hotel opened its doors in 1927 and played host to royalty and A-list celebrities. It was where Ernest Hemingway would come to drink, where Coco Chanel invented her beach pyjamas for her stays, and where Ella Fitzgerald serenaded lucky onlookers from her balcony in 1960.
After a change of ownership in 1972, the hotel closed its doors for a major refurbishment. But the plans never went ahead, and Le Provençal sat dormant until John Caudwell acquired it in 2014.
Inspired by its enchanting legacy, Caudwell’s restoration aims to captivate the world once more. Working with Affine Design, specialists in creating and renovating palaces and luxury hotels across the globe, the restoration will remain faithful to the original Art Deco details while thoughtfully integrating modern touches.
Occupying an elevated position arranged over 10 principal floors, 35 luxurious apartments – ranging from penthouses and duplex apartments to garden villas – blend Art Deco opulence with modern elegance. The residences are lavish and hark back to the Jazz Age, while 21st century touches ensure residents lack nothing. With private pools and extensive outdoor terraces, residents can enjoy spectacular views of the Riviera from the comfort of their homes.
In addition to the residences, owners will have access to a plethora of facilities and personalised concierge services. There’s Art Deco inspired public areas and a cinema, a health spa with gym, spa pool, Hamman, sauna, yoga room and fitness studio, a restaurant, retail boutiques, garaging, and even landscaped gardens that include a 30-metre swimming pool.