Hotel Carlton Cannes
Last stay: August 2024
The Hotel
This summer, I stayed at The Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, and it truly lives up to its reputation as the finest luxury hotel in Cannes. Located on La Croisette, the famous seafront promenade, the hotel boasts a renowned beach club right in front, where you can rent a lounger and enjoy a day on the soft sand, dipping your toes into the warm Mediterranean Sea. As a Platinum Elite Member of Regent, I was delighted to receive an instant room upgrade with an ocean view. To top it off, I had the incredible opportunity to watch the stunning fireworks display from my room. In one word: WOW!
Special thanks to Mr. the GM of the hotel who made my stay even more special. This Hotel certainly deserves my Excellent Choice Award
The Location
The location of the Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, couldn’t be better. It is right at the center of a Croisette, surrounded by designer stores, with the Martinez hotel to one side and the JW Marriott a few doors down to the other side. In front of it is the famous promenade and the hotel’s equally famous beach club, which is open from April to October. This is the place to see and be seen in Cannes.
Style & Character
The Carlton Cannes, designed by architect Charles Dalmas and opened in 1911, was originally named after London’s Carlton Hotel. Built in the Belle Époque style, it quickly became a symbol of luxury on the French Riviera, attracting royalty, aristocrats, and celebrities. During World War II, the hotel was requisitioned by German forces as a military hospital, but it was restored post-war and reclaimed its status as a premier destination. By the 20th century, it had become a favorite spot for Hollywood stars and a key venue during the Cannes Film Festival, solidifying its reputation for glamour and luxury.
The rooms
You should definitely book a seafront room at the Carlton Cannes, as they are particularly luxurious. The beds are exceptionally comfortable, and from your Romeo and Juliette balcony, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Cannes’ seafront, with the sound of waves crashing on the shore. The palm-lined road in front of the hotel serves as a tranquil, scenic promenade for cars alongside the pedestrian walkway.
You’ll find yourself constantly captivated by the view, with the sea visible even from the bed or desk through the ornate balcony and swaying palms. In the distance, the mountains leading to St Tropez appear shrouded in mist, resembling ghostly ships, while on clear days, these hills sparkle with lights.
Dining & Drink Venues
During my stay, I primarily dined outside the hotel, exploring the local culinary scene. However, I did make sure to enjoy the breakfast at the hotel, and I was thoroughly impressed. The service was exceptional, and the quality and variety of the food offered were truly remarkable. Each morning, the breakfast spread featured an impressive selection of fresh and delicious options, making it a delightful start to the day.
Service & Facilities
Beyond the lobby, you’ll find a bar, restaurant, and a garden featuring additional bars, eateries, and a lovely outdoor pool open from March to November. The garden, adorned with colorful tropical flowers and green lawns, has loungers around the pool for sunbathing.
In the summer, the Beach Club’s restaurant and lounge bar are open year-round, while sunbeds are available from April 1st to October 15th. In the evenings, the beachfront restaurant and bar offer a lively atmosphere with music and outdoor seating by the sand, though you can also enjoy the front of the hotel or the air-conditioned lobby lounge.
Conclusion
The Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, is the premier choice for luxury accommodation in Cannes. IHG’s Regent brand stands alongside Four Seasons hotels in terms of excellence and immaculate service. I could easily write pages about how exceptional my experience at the Carlton Cannes was—it truly exceeded all expectations. You absolutely must try it!
