Sun, scenery and French Riviera chic: Gaze at the Mediterranean from this new cliffside hotel

Rich in culture, sunshine and scenery, the French Riviera has long been the holiday destination of choice for movies stars, royalty and the global yacht set, as well as the likes of Picasso, Matisse and Coco Chanel. The latest arrival is the Maybourne Riviera, built into the cliffside of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.

The backstory: As the first continental offering from the Maybourne Hotel Group (known for the exclusive London properties Claridge’s and the Connaught), expectations are high for the Maybourne Riviera, which soft-opened this winter. With its private terraces, Michelin-noted celebrity chefs, and spaces designed by an international cadre of prominent architects and designers, this modern boutique hotel will set a new standard for Mediterranean luxury when it opens fully this summer.

The space: The Maybourne Riviera’s design pays homage to the hotel’s stunning setting, as well as the cavalcade of famous artists and designers who have drawn inspiration from Roquebrune-Cap-Martin over the years. This translates to 69 rooms and suites with sweeping views of Monaco and the Mediterranean (including from the Panoramic Suite’s free-standing marble tub) and an impressive selection of curvaceous retro-modern furniture. Design highlights include furniture by Eileen Gray, a large hanging sculpture by Louise Bourgeois and lithographs by Le Corbusier.

The dining: With its plentiful sunshine, bountiful seafood and world-famous rosés, the Riviera is among France’s most prestigious regions for gastronomy. Guests can experience these culinary delights at in-house restaurants helmed by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, who presides over a fine-dining empire stretching from New York to Shanghai, and Mauro Colagreco, whose nearby restaurant, the three Michelin-star Mirazur, was ranked the best place to eat on the planet in 2019. Rounding out the hotel’s dining experience is Le Piano Bar, where you can sip a pine-infused negroni while gazing over the twinkling lights of Monaco.

The extra amenities: Anyone looking for a nice spot to sit with a glass of wine will find plenty of options at the Maybourne Riviera, including a terrace with an infinity-edge pool overlooking the Med.

The nearby sights: History and scenic beauty are around every corner in the village of Roquebrune, which is home to the 10th-century Château de Roquebrune-Cap-Martin (believed to be the oldest castle in France), as well as holiday homes designed by Le Corbusier and Eileen Gray. Slightly farther afield is the town of Menton, where you’ll find two unique botanical gardens and a 1950s salle des mariages decorated with murals by Jean Cocteau.