Refined luxury on the Riviera, a preferred holiday destination for royalty and the international elite. Favoured by countless English visitors in the mid-19th century, the legendary Nice Promenade was unsurprisingly named after them. Shining brightly all through the 1930s, this spirit is now reborn in an exceptional setting, Maison Albar – Le Victoria.
Opened one year ago in its former premises after seven years of renovation work, this boutique hotel is a hidden gem between the sea and the cityscape of Nice. Discreet, intimate, classic, captivating in its understated yet chic décor, this five-star hotel is indeed very special. Stepping through a narrow doorway on the legendary Avenue de Suède, lined with its luxury boutiques, you have no idea what surprise is awaiting you here. First, a monumental staircase is taking you to a reception area beautifully bathed in light. Its chandelier is a true work of art. A composition of some 500 white and yellow blown glass bubbles evokes a shower of mimosa blossoms — a poetic allusion to this unique tree attracting crowds of visitors to the Cannes area every winter.
With blue dominating the interior, its marble, lacquer lobby is gilded with azure. A delicate pinch of black is a contemporary allusion to its 1930s spirit. There is no ostentatious luxury here, but rather a warm elegance blending white, beige, ivory and taupe. The same clean lines are echoed through the hotel’s 132 rooms. Some of them offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, others open onto the city and its hills. Either way, one gets an impression of being outside of time, far from the urban bustle, yet in the heart of the city. Nestled in the very centre, yet escaping a typical metropolis frenzy, this place is truly unique.
Designed like apartments, each boasting a very large panoramic terrace, some thirty suites are yet another one of Maison Albar’s highlights. Perfect for business meetings, festive events or exceptional family getaways alike.
A cozy haven, the “Victoria” café is serving breakfast. You can also enjoy a drink or a light snack in the afternoon hours. A very elegant and welcoming meeting place indeed.
A Lunch between the Sky and the Sea at “Taulissa”
Another unmissable experience is reserved for both Maison Albar’s guests and other gourmets and aesthetes. Right between the sky and the sea, the hotel’s top floor is inviting you on a culinary journey. Its constantly renewed background, from dawn to dusk, is a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean, with its ever-changing reflections.
Made all the more precious by its masterful chefs, the restaurant is promising you a truly unique experience. Three Michelin star holder for his “L’Oustaou de Baumanière” in Les Baux-de-Provence, Glenn Viel is collaborating here with Fred Grava, now at the helm of “Taulissa”. Contributing to the second star awarded to “Kilimandjaro” in Courchevel, the two chefs have worked hand-in-hand for many years.
The “Taulissa” menu is showcasing local produce, honouring Mediterranean traditions. Blending multiple flavours, beautifully presented on specially arranged plates, it is offering us a truly refined and colourful cuisine. Savour its exquisitely delicate stuffed vegetables from Nice or fish highlighted by homemade condiments and wildflowers. Fostering serenity and reverie, the very essence of the South is captured in this picture-postcard setting. For the guests to fully enjoy a moment of pleasure and relaxation, both attentive and discreet service may be well commended here. For elegance is also found in human interaction…
A pure 24-karat gold Spa
For centuries gold has been celebrated not only for its brilliance but also for its many other virtues. Long recognized for its dermatological care effect, symbolizing purity and regeneration, some civilizations long used it to protect their skin from external aggressions. On top of that, it is also known to promote cell renewal and a radiant complexion…
Gold is thus at the very essence of the “Oria Spa” harmony, incorporated into its signature face and body treatments.
The Beauty Gold range by Manetti Battiloro is exclusive to the French Riviera. On top of its golden leaf, the line is offering three other formats obtained by grinding it into powder, flakes and petals. These exceptional treatments are complemented by “La Colline” products of an exceptional purity, crafted at the foot of the Swiss Alps.
The combination of these rich and efficient creams and gold produces stunning results that can only be experienced here. Unfolding in three phases, facial treatments are tailored to your individual needs and desires. First, a gentle yet deep cleansing is performed, followed by an exfoliation and a relaxing massage. A rehydrating and anti-aging mask is then applied, specially targeting eye and lip contours. Serums and day creams are part of this ritual, expertly administered by experienced estheticians, particularly skilled at firm and tapping massages. With your cheeks all plumped up, your face is clear and radiant.
Another “Oria Spa” specialty is light therapy. You are invited to lie down in a cylinder where a LED mask is placed over your face. To achieve optimal results for your beauty and sleep, the “Vital Dome” is recommended at a rate of two sessions per week. This French-designed infrared therapy device is inspired by the traditional Japanese sauna. Unlike classic saunas, the individual dome envelops your body only, leaving your head uncovered and facilitating breathing. With the perspiration occurring deep in skin tissues, its detoxifying properties also help with weight loss. A ritual to try and be repeated as often as you like to feel rejuvenated, relaxed and comfortable in your own skin. A truly golden experience.
La Maison Albar – Le Victoria
6 Avenue de Suède, Nice
Tel (+33) 4 22 70 08 00
