Set high above the Mediterranean in Roquebrune Cap Martin, The Maybourne Riviera occupies one of the most compelling positions on the Côte d’Azur. Overlooking the Mediterranean and the Principality of Monaco, with views extending toward the Italian coast, the property combines a remarkable natural setting with architecture, design, gastronomy and hospitality that reflect the character of the French Riviera.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
The hotel is also defined by a sense of history. Its original building dates to 1870 and was once a tea salon perched above the sea. The structure became a hotel in the 1920s before undergoing further transformation during the 1950s. In 1978, industrialist Max Grundig acquired the property and renamed it Vista Palace. It later became part of the Maybourne group in 2014 and reopened in its present form in 2021.
That history is an important part of the hotel’s identity. During the celebrated golden age of the Côte d’Azur, the property welcomed prominent figures from the worlds of film and music, including Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and Frank Sinatra. The surrounding Riviera has similarly attracted generations of artists and cultural figures, creating a heritage that continues to influence the atmosphere of the region.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
The contemporary property was conceived by architect Jean Michel Wilmotte, whose approach responds closely to the dramatic terrain. Rather than imposing itself on the landscape, the architecture follows the natural form of the rocky promontory, creating the impression of a structure suspended between the land and the sea. The hotel comprises 65 rooms, suites and studios, including 24 suites, arranged across the Cristal, Azur and Corniche wings.
The interiors continue this dialogue with the landscape. The Maybourne Riviera brought together a distinguished group of architects and designers, including Bryan O’Sullivan Studio, André Fu and London based studio Rigby & Rigby. Maybourne Artistic Director Michelle Wu created cohesion between their different approaches through a considered combination of materials, colors, textures and art. Works by Le Corbusier and JR are displayed throughout the property, alongside photographs by Edward Quinn, whose work captured the personalities and atmosphere of the Riviera’s celebrated era.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
Accommodation is designed around the setting, with the Mediterranean remaining a constant presence. Suites and studios range from 40 to 220 square meters and feature private terraces with views stretching from Roquebrune Bay toward Monaco. Natural materials, bespoke furniture, oak detailing, sculptural forms and subtle colors create interiors that feel refined without distracting from the landscape beyond.
In the Cristal wing, Rigby & Rigby drew on its experience in yacht design to create interiors characterized by clean lines, sculptural curves and carefully considered proportions. The design also takes inspiration from Eileen Gray and the surrounding natural environment, introducing softer, undulating forms that contrast with the angular exterior architecture.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
The Signature Suites provide an even greater sense of space and privacy. The Horizon Suite offers a panoramic terrace and three flexible bedrooms, while the Azur Suite features generous interiors and two terraces. The Panoramic Suites open toward uninterrupted views extending from Italy to Monaco, while the Bleu Infini Suite includes a private infinity pool.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
Guests staying in Signature Suites also receive a selection of privileges, including airport Meet and Greet service, guaranteed early check in and late check out, a private sunset cruise aboard a Riva boat and a personalized consultation followed by a 60 minute signature massage at Surrenne Riviera.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne RivieraGastronomy forms another important part of the property. The Maybourne Riviera offers a collection of restaurants and bars designed to provide different expressions of the Mediterranean culinary experience.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
At abc kitchens riviera, Michelin starred chef Jean Georges Vongerichten brings his acclaimed concept to the Côte d’Azur. The rooftop restaurant emphasizes fresh, sustainable and regional ingredients, with a market to table philosophy and a strong focus on plant forward cuisine.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
Riviera Restaurant offers a more sophisticated interpretation of Mediterranean cuisine under Chef Guillaume Boumati. Drawing inspiration from Provence, Liguria and the Italian Riviera, the restaurant explores the balance between land and sea through seasonal ingredients and precise technique. Its interiors, created by Bryan O’Sullivan Studio, reinforce the connection with the surrounding environment through a palette inspired by the changing shades of the Mediterranean.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
La Piscine provides a more relaxed dining environment beside the infinity pool. Its menu includes generous dishes intended for sharing, from burrata with Osciètre caviar and lobster rolls to crispy panisses and traditional Neapolitan pizza. Desserts include Fior di Latte sundaes, frozen mochis and kakigori inspired by the flavors of summer.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
For a more informal setting, Le 300 Lobby Lounge overlooks the Mediterranean and provides an inviting space throughout the day. Its menu focuses on familiar classics, including a Club Sandwich, truffle pizza, burger and pastries, making it a natural place for guests to relax between excursions or after time spent by the sea.
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Wellness is equally central to the experience through Surrenne Riviera. Conceived as a destination that extends beyond the traditional hotel spa, the three storey sanctuary combines scientific expertise, holistic traditions, innovative technology and highly personalized treatments.
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Its offerings include advanced Biologique Recherche skincare, Lagree Fitness, cryotherapy, osteopathy, light therapy, yoga and TRX, alongside personalized wellness programs and longevity retreats.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
The hotel also provides a carefully curated selection of experiences that encourage guests to explore the region. Activities include guided walks along the Cap Martin trails, sunrise yoga and Pilates, Neapolitan pizza and cocktail workshops, watercolor classes, visits to the Menton market and excursions to the medieval village of Roquebrune. Complimentary transfers from the Nice region, access to the private beach and seasonal shuttle services to Monaco and La Môme Riviera further expand the possibilities during a stay.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
For guests looking beyond the immediate surroundings, the concierge team can arrange experiences throughout the Riviera, including classic car drives along the Grande Corniche, yacht excursions, visits to local vineyards and helicopter journeys to Cannes or Saint Tropez. The region’s combination of coastline, mountains, culture, gastronomy and heritage provides an extensive backdrop for personalized itineraries.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
La Môme Riviera adds another dimension to the property. Located on the hotel’s private beach in a secluded cove, the destination combines the relaxed elegance of a Riviera beach club with an energetic dining and entertainment program. Its offering includes Mediterranean cuisine, fresh seafood, carefully curated music and panoramic views, creating a setting that captures the social character of a Côte d’Azur summer.
The gardens offer a quieter expression of the property. Landscape architect Jean Mus designed the terraced gardens around Mediterranean vegetation, including olive, pomegranate and citrus trees. The result is a fragrant and naturally layered environment that provides moments of calm while remaining closely connected to the distinctive landscape of Roquebrune Cap Martin.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
The Maybourne Riviera ultimately succeeds by making its location central to every aspect of the guest experience. The architecture responds to the cliffs, the interiors reflect the light and colors of the Mediterranean, the restaurants draw inspiration from the region, and the experiences encourage guests to discover the culture and landscapes beyond the property.
Photo Credit: The Maybourne Riviera
With 65 suites and studios, each featuring a private terrace and sea view, multiple restaurants and bars, Surrenne Riviera, an infinity pool, a private beach club and panoramic views across France, Monaco and Italy, the hotel offers a distinctly contemporary interpretation of Riviera hospitality.
Rather than relying solely on the traditional glamour associated with the Côte d’Azur, The Maybourne Riviera presents a more considered vision of luxury. It brings together heritage, architecture, art, cuisine, wellness and a remarkable natural setting to create a destination that feels both deeply connected to the Riviera and unmistakably modern.
For travelers looking for a sophisticated Mediterranean escape, The Maybourne Riviera offers something increasingly valuable: a sense of place that is impossible to separate from the experience itself.