The lobby of the Hotel Carlton-Intercontinental in Cannes is beautiful, very ornate in turn of (19th) century style (think Waldorf Astoria or Plaza in Manhattan). This seven-story hotel was built in 1909 and has meticulously maintained the decor. Crystal chandeliers abound. The corkscrew staircase is a trademark with beautiful symmetry, from lobby to the top floor. You’ll also see beautiful marble inlaid floors and huge floral arrangements.

All rooms in the U-shaped building were renovated last year. There is a Provencal motif in room décor, with old fashioned Provencal quilts on beds. The largest superior rooms are located on the sides of the hotel. Originally, this was the location preferred by European royalty; it was quieter than overlooking the Croisette and less sunny - in those days people were concerned about exposing their skin to the sun’s rays! Deluxe seaview rooms have a separate bath and shower. All bathrooms are furnished with a bidet and Penhaligon amenities. All rooms on the 3rd floor are non-smoking rooms.

There is a complimentary fitness center with cardio machines for hotel guests. While there is no pool at this hotel, they offer a private beach across the street. The Carlton Beach Restaurant offers a Provencal buffet. The Brasserie restaurant offers indoor and al fresco dining. You’ll enjoy excellent food, wonderful service and a sumptuous décor.

HOTEL MARTINEZ

Hotel Martinez is located directly on the Croisette with its own private beach across the street.  Very Art Deco! This seven-story hotel is the last one on the Croisette, farthest east of all the large hotels.  The lobby is superb with marble floors, a huge lobby bar, and a brightly lit welcoming lounge area. There is beautiful carpeting throughout the property.

The Hotel Martinez is also very popular with Americans; amenities you’ll find include the Michelin-rated  La Palme d’Or, one of three restaurants in the hotel. There is also an outdoor pool for year-round use – it is heated to 85 degrees Fahrenheit in winter.

Superior rooms have city views.  Sea view rooms are larger than superior and offer huge bathrooms with separate bathtub and shower stalls. There are Annick Goutal amenities in all bathrooms (a top parfumeur in Paris).

Junior suites have a private terrace, a concierge service which can arrange dinner for two in the room, and private check-in. The 7th floor has been converted into all suites. On this floor you’ll also find the Givenchy Spa – their only spa in France. 

SIGHTSEEING IN CANNES:

A sightseeing tourist train leaves from the area near the Palais des Festivals and goes all along the Croisette up to Palm Beach and returns through the Rue d’Antibes shopping area. Good for orientation. Must see - Le Suquet. Located on a small hill behind the old port, this is where it all began. You’ll see remains of the old city walls and a beautiful 13th century chapel (where many concerts are held), narrow winding streets and one wonderful street, the Rue du Suquet, lined with restaurants on each side (they will tend to be pricier than those on the Rue Felix Faure in town). Very pretty and fabulous views of the entire city and the Mediterranean. Don’t miss a trip to Mougins, an ancient town up in the hills about 20 minutes from Cannes. This walled city is filled with beautiful restaurants, and art galleries galore. There are very few other stores - an artist’s haven. Old lavoir restored and now a museum. There are wonderful views of the countryside from the walls of the city. Parking is free and you can wander around on your own. Also visit Grasse, a center for perfume industry. Hundreds of shops selling cologne/eau de toilette made from local flowers.

Please contact the travel agent below to book your perfect Cannes vacation:

Irene Bernstein,
American Express Travel
600 Old Country Rd
Garden City NY 11530
516- 228 2384 x 43652 or 1 800-446-6165 x 43652
email: Irene.M.Bernstein@aexp.com

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