Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas has continued its European expansion with a debut in France. Overlooking the Promenade des Anglais, Anantara Plaza Nice in housed within a rejuvenated 19^th century architectural jewel on the city’s boardwalk, which has been reinstated to its Belle Époque era glory following an extensive two-year renovation.

Located at the entrance to the city’s Golden Square, the 175-year-old building now comprises 151 rooms including 38 suites, many with sea-facing terraces and balconies, as well as a new spa and rooftop restaurant and bar with panoramic view of the Baie des Anges and Old Nice. There’s also a seminar space with six meeting rooms and a ballroom.

A consortium of architects and interior designers including David Collins Studio, local architect Jean-Paul Gomis and TBC Studio have envisioned elegant interiors that blend old-world elegance with contemporary luxury. The design also honours the Neoclassical style of the original property, opened in 1848 as Nice’s very first luxury hotel.

Taking cues from the Mediterranean Sea and the golden era of Côte d’Azur, the guestrooms and suites – overlooking the sea or manicured gardens – are clad in marble and combine pastel tones and Mediterranean textures with with subtle accents of wood and gold.

The 54m2² Baie des Anges Signature Suite meanwhile comes with a spacious living area, kitchenette and panoramic terrace with views of the world famous Baie. Even grander is the 75m² Presidential Suite on the 5^th floor, an elegant space again affording views of Baie des Anges from a terrace that can host private celebrations.

Situated on the rooftop, signature restaurant Seen by Olivier serves a contemporary Mediterranean menu crafted by Portuguese chef-entrepreneur Olivier da Costa. Like his trendy eateries in Lisbon, Sao Paulo and Bangkok, the new Seen in Nice blends imaginative mixology and gastronomic discoveries ranging from Niçoise specialties – subtly scented with black truffles from the nearby village of Le Rouret – to briny sea urchins and plump oysters from local waters. The breezy setting is seductive, offering 360° vistsas of the city and Baie des Anges from indoor and outdoor tables.

At Les Colonnades, a caviar and champagne lounge with indigenous flavours and interiors inspired by the visual synergy of Nice’s tropical gardens and the sea, will serve fresh seafood alongside light bites, local fare and wine by the glass. In the afternoon, a signature Afternoon Tea à la Niçoise will transport guests to a bygone era.

The spa meanwhile comprises five treatment rooms, a hammam and a sauna. Marine skincare products, natural essential oils from the Grasse region and Asian therapies combine with pedicures from celebrity pedicurist Bastien Gonzalez, known for his playful approach to foot care. Turning to nature’s restorative powers yet again, the spa carries a bespoke collection of exclusive massage oils, made with essential oils from the perfume capital of Grasse. The series features Anantara Nice’s signature Coucher de Soleil oil formulated with locally sourced mimosa, ginger and other aromatic botanicals. Guests can also work out at the 24-hour fitness centre, enjoy running sessions along the seafront Promenade, or book personal trainers.

With a total of five brand-new multifunctional venues ranging from 25-309m² – most of them with natural light – the hotel can accommodate up to 300 people for large corporate or social gatherings. Small creative sessions, bespoke private dinners and rooftop weddings and celebrations all benefit from direct access to the exterior and views of the bay.