Cap Estel feels more like a private world than a hotel – across its own two-hectare peninsula between Nice and Monaco, surrounded almost entirely by the Mediterranean. There is a private pebble beach tucked into its own little cove, an infinity pool suspended above the sea, and a tennis court so close to the water it feels cinematic. The property has long been privately owned by a South African family, but in 2025 it was acquired by LVMH, in a deal reported at around €200 million – more than €10 million per room and among Europe's most significant hotel transactions.

Insider tip: Rumour has it that Cap Estel could eventually be transformed into a Cheval Blanc. If the talks prove true, we cannot wait to see how LVMH's signature hospitality brand reimagines such an extraordinary piece of the Riviera. For now, it remains wonderfully unique – secluded, cinematic, and completely surrounded by the sea.