Hotel Belles Rives: A Glamorous Riviera Escape Steeped in Literary Legend

Nestled along the sparkling shores of the Cap d'Antibes, the Hotel Belles Rives effortlessly marries the timeless charm of the French Riviera with a rich literary heritage. Once the 1920s retreat of F. Scott Fitzgerald, this iconic Art Deco gem has been welcoming those in search of elegance and inspiration for nearly a century. It was here, when the hotel was still known as Villa Saint-Louis, that Fitzgerald found the inspiration for Tender Is the Night, transforming the Riviera into a backdrop for his tales of love, excess, and the jazz age.

Today, Belles Rives remains a sanctuary for the well-heeled and the well-read, yet it offers so much more than its storied past. Under the ownership of the Estène-Chauvin family, the hotel has evolved into a modern masterpiece, preserving its retro elegance while catering to a new generation of discerning travellers.

But Belles Rives continues to be a haven for creativity. Not only does it host the prestigious Prix Fitzgerald, an annual literary prize with Quentin Tarantino as an integral figure, but it also remains a beloved location for filmmakers. Woody Allen, a frequent guest at the hotel’s piano bar, even shot scenes for his film Magic in the Moonlight here, using the Riviera’s timeless beauty as the perfect backdrop.

An Ode to Provençal Cuisine

Culinary artistry is alive and well at Belles Rives, thanks to the visionary chef Aurélien Véquaud. His menu at La Passagère is a contemporary ode to Provençal cuisine, celebrating the finest seasonal ingredients and Mediterranean flavors with creativity and flair. Picture dishes like grilled octopus with saffron mayonnaise and lime, or tender sea bass filet with a zesty tomato sauce and perfectly grilled artichokes. Every plate is an exquisite harmony of flavors, reflecting the chef's deep connection to the region. As a testament to its excellence, La Passagère proudly boasts a Michelin star, offering diners a truly elevated experience.

For dessert, the imaginative confections of pâtissier Steve Moracchini take center stage. From his delicate lemon tarts to intricate chocolate creations, each dessert is as much a visual delight as it is a culinary triumph, ensuring every meal at Belles Rives ends on a sweet, artful note.

Breakfast with a View

Mornings at Hotel Belles Rives begin on a high note. As the sun rises over the Mediterranean, the hotel’s terrace becomes a magical spot for breakfast. Guests can enjoy an array of freshly baked pastries, local fruits, and perfectly brewed coffee while taking in the breathtaking sea views. The gentle lapping of the waves and the salty sea breeze create a perfect, serene setting to start the day. It’s a moment of tranquillity, where the everyday stress of life seems to melt away into the azure horizon.

Lunch at La Plage: Mediterranean Bliss by the Water

For a more relaxed yet equally refined experience, La Plage is Belles Rives’ beachfront dining haven. With its chic, breezy ambiance and panoramic views of the Mediterranean, La Plage offers a fresh take on Provençal cuisine, perfect for a sun-soaked lunch by the water. Dishes like zucchini flower fritters with rosemary honey, burrata with local tomatoes, and fresh lobster rolls are highlights of the menu, celebrating the vibrant flavors of the region. Whether you’re lounging on a sunbed or enjoying a meal under the shade of an umbrella, La Plage brings the essence of Mediterranean dining to life.

La Plage at Belles Rives: One of the Riviera's Best Beach Clubs

Renowned as one of the top 10 beach clubs on the French Riviera, La Plage at Hotel Belles Rives offers an unparalleled seaside experience. With its prime location on the sparkling Mediterranean, this elegant beach club combines sophisticated Riviera style with the natural beauty of the Cap d'Antibes. Guests can relax on chic sun loungers, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy gourmet Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Its tranquil ambiance and impeccable service make La Plage a must-visit destination for those seeking the perfect blend of luxury and relaxation by the sea.

An Icon Reborn

Hotel Belles Rives is more than just a luxurious destination—it's a living symbol of the French Riviera's golden age.

Whether you’re dining at the Michelin-starred La Passagère, indulging in a sun-soaked lunch at the Beach Club, or simply enjoying breakfast on the terrace as the Mediterranean sparkles before you, the Belles Rives experience is one of refined elegance and timeless glamour.

For lovers of history, literature, and fine living, it’s a destination that offers not just a place to stay, but a journey into the soul of the French Riviera itself.