The Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo is all Belle Époque splendor, with a pale corbelled façade, decorative blue bas-relief friezes and French doors that open onto fanciful wrought-iron balconies with harbor views.

Gorgeous public spaces include the winter garden with a soaring Art Nouveau glass-and-steel cupola, which was designed by Gustave Eiffel, and La Salle Belle Époque, opulent with pink marble columns and Fragonard-esque frescoes.

By contrast, the guestrooms in palettes of red, blue or beige, are studies in restrained elegance. The hotel is one of Monaco's main social hubs and the public spaces are always buzzing with a chic clientele.

Guests are made to feel like they are part of the glam scene by being given the “Monte-Carlo Cercle” card, offering free admission to the Casino, the spa Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo, the Beach club, 50-percent discount at the Tennis Club and the Golf Club.