Strolling along La Croisette, one can’t help but be imbued by the glamour that epitomizes Cannes’ timeless appeal; centered amidst this legendary seafront walkway lies the storied Carlton Cannes.

After an intensive three-year renovation, the Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel has only further re-established its stature not only as a destination within the French Riviera but as a hospitality and design leader on an international stage. Here at SmartFlyer, we’re enamored with the layered narratives that lie within historical hotels, so when our team had the chance to check-in just shortly after the property reopened its doors, we were swept away by the restoration’s thoughtful approach to marrying heritage and modernity.

The rebirth of this Riviera icon was entrusted to architect Richard Lavelle and interior designer Tristan Auer at the helm, but hundreds of collaborators looked after the details. In total, 750 people and 450 companies worked to blend their skills, united by a shared passion for Métiers d’Art. Upon arrival at the Carlton Cannes’ chic entrance, a glance up at the facade will reveal signage mirroring the inscription of “Carlton Hotel” exactly as it appeared in 1913 thanks to an identical reproduction. But that’s not where the nods to the past end.

We love how the check-in desk is tucked away to ensure additional privacy for guests, instead allowing guests to be welcomed by lobby ambassadors donning Grace Kelly-inspired uniforms.

After a warm greeting from the friendly bellmen who keep a watchful eye on the century-old wood revolving door, you’ll set foot into the sunlit-flooded lobby. Here, Tristan Auer’s work begins to shine with nods to the past met by notes of the present, including a petal pink Venini chandelier. We love how the check-in desk is tucked away – back towards the peristyle garden courtyard nonetheless – to ensure additional privacy for guests, instead allowing them to be welcomed by lobby ambassadors donning Grace Kelly-inspired uniforms. Don’t forget to look up on your way check-in to see two turn-of-the-century painted frescoes which were only just discovered during the renovation beneath the once faux ceiling.

And once you do get to the check-in desk, it’s not screens and technology that greet you, but a smiling face and another subtle nod to the past: clay powder encased in a glass-top desk as a tribute to Carlton’s 1926 clay tennis courts where Suzanne Lenglen of France and her American rival, Helen Willis, unfolded. This tradition is also honored with artwork lining the gold leaf-flecked stair banisters. As you set foot towards your room or suite, further background on the property as a part of the Regent Hotels & Resorts family helps to contextualize every aspect of your experience.

Carlton Cannes as a Part of Regent Brand

We checked in with Tom Rowntree, VP of Global Brands at IHG Hotels, for further context on how the Grand Dame fits into the Regent brand.

What is the ethos of the Regent brand?

The beauty of contrast underpins Regent to inspire guests to become present by stimulating their senses and enabling them to present the best versions of themselves, grounding them back to the moment.

Tom Rowntree: “Regent, as part of the IHG Luxury & Lifestyle Portfolio, embodies the essence of elevated luxury. The beauty of contrast underpins Regent to inspire guests to become present by stimulating their senses and enabling them to present the best versions of themselves, grounding them back to the moment. When the first Regent hotel opened fifty years ago, it marked the beginning of modern luxury. Its bold firsts set the standards of travel and living for decades. It was the brand that first introduced island receptions and sunken bathtubs – both of which became industry norms. Regent was a forerunner in modern luxury in hospitality with a long history of properties in landmark destinations and extraordinary views.

Now, under the stewardship of IHG Hotels & Resorts, the brand is back and returning to do it again. Over the last twelve months, Regent has truly returned to define luxury once more. With nine hotels across the world, the new generation of Regent Hotels which have opened in the last twelve months include Regent Phu Quoc, Regent Hong Kong, and of course the legendary and newly reopened Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel.”

What elements of the legendary Carlton Cannes align it with the Regent philosophy?

Tom Rowntree: “After a two-year multimillion Euro redevelopment, Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel is now a flagship property within the new generation of Regent Hotels & Resorts. Every aspect of Regent’s design and service has been meticulously crafted with the most discerning travelers in mind. The design philosophy, exemplified by the captivating contrasts showcased at Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, aims to engage guests’ senses and bring them into the present moment. Dedicated Experience Agents provide a single point of contact for a guest for the duration of their stay. Our mindset of ‘with compliments’ is designed to allow guests to stay present and enjoy their trip as the hotel takes care of the little incidentals, such as laundry or in-room refreshments, so they don’t have to constantly think about things.”

Tell us more about the “personal haven” design element of the Regent Brand and how it was incorporated into Carlton Cannes?

Tom Rowntree: “The personal haven is another example of how the entire Regent experience is constructed to allow guests to have the most elevated experience possible. Each property features Personal Havens – carefully designed spaces that offer moments of inspiration and relaxation. These havens, scattered throughout the hotel, provide inviting seating or lounging areas with ample space and captivating lighting, creating an atmosphere of extravagance and tranquility. Through tech-enabled connectivity and an instant service call signal, Person Havens are customized with individual choices such as bespoke food and beverages, scent, music, literature, and bath menus to enable each Regent to provide the luxury of personalized spaces to inspire uplifting moments.”

The Evolution of Carlton Cannes

To get perspective on the new chapter of this historic hotel, we tapped into Christophe Laure, Area General Manager at IHG, who has been with the brand for nearly twenty years.

You’ve been with the IHG family of brands for nearly two decades, with your first experience being at the Carlton Cannes in the early 90s. What has stayed the same about the property and what has changed?

While 2023 marks the 110th anniversary of the ‘Grande Dame’ and a new chapter of its history, the heart and soul of the iconic Carlton Cannes have remained intact thanks to its loyal and dedicated team.

Christophe Laure: “Carlton Cannes has undergone a major renovation and extension project with an approach towards a newer, more contemporary style, carefully designed by interior architect Tristan Auer. This infusion of a modern touch complements the property’s legacy to bring a unique residential comfort. The brand-new Carlton Cannes features two extended wings and unveils sumptuous new suites with incredible views, a 2,000 square meter interior garden with a bar, an infinity pool, and three restaurants which make it a gastronomic destination of the French Riviera. While 2023 marks the 110th anniversary of the ‘Grande Dame’ and a new chapter of its history, the heart and soul of the iconic Carlton Cannes have remained intact thanks to its loyal and dedicated team.”  

People have long flocked to the property for The Beach Club. What about it feels fresh these days?

Christophe Laure: “The Carlton Beach Club continues to embody the charm of the 1930’s Riviera with its glamorous yet relaxed and comfortable feel. After renovation, everything feels fresh, especially with a development to a more contemporary style and the diversification of the Carlton Beach Club into three major areas: the central beach bar, the beach restaurant, and the beach area itself.”

From The Cannes Film Festival to the Grace Kelly Suite

We chatted with Tom Krooswijk, General Manager of the property, to learn more about not only how Carlton Cannes prepares for the annual Cannes Film Festival, but also how it keeps the experience feeling fresh year-round.

Each year, all eyes are on La Croisette for the Cannes Film Festival. How far in advance does your team begin preparing? Anything fun up your sleeve for the festival in 2024?

At the Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, the Film Festival never checks out.

Tom Krooswijk: Each year, as the spotlight turns to La Croisette for the Cannes Film Festival, our meticulous preparations at the Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, commence well in advance. At the Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, the Film Festival never checks out. The Film Festival is a perpetual affair, reflecting our unwavering commitment to surpassing expectations year after year, as we pride ourselves on consistently exceeding the standards set in previous years, ensuring an unparalleled and continually elevated festival experience. For 2024, we intend to invite Palme d’Or Lauréate to sign the Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel celebrity vase of fame.

There are some spectacular suites on offer at the reimagined Carlton Cannes. Tell us about a couple of your favorites.

Tom Krooswijk: “Among the array of spectacular suites at the reimagined Carlton Cannes, The Grace Kelly Suite stands out for its cozy ambiance and fabulous evening moon views over the Mediterranean. The Penthouse is another gem, celebrated for its art, rooftop gardens, and the possibility to invite your 100 best friends for a memorable moment.”

For repeat guests who haven’t seen the property in its restored glory yet, what do you think will surprise them most?

Tom Krooswijk: “For our valued repeat guests who have yet to witness the property in its restored glory, we anticipate that they will be most surprised by the timeless and spacious ambiance that defines the Carlton. The heavenly light that bathes in and around the Carlton complements the exceptional attention and care provided by the ladies and gentlemen taking care of you, ensuring a truly memorable and elevated experience during your stay.”

Cannes beyond the Summer Months

We chatted with our dear friend Matthias Kaesweber, Director of Sales & Marketing at Carlton Cannes, to learn more about how he sees his home city in the landscape of European travel.

Each year, the luxury travel industry descends upon Cannes at the beginning of December. What does an off-season experience in Cannes offer travelers?

Matthias Kaesweber: “I personally love the off-season the most! You have easy access to everything related to cultural and culinary aspects as well as the locals. There are amazing activities throughout the month of December for instance, beginning with our very first Festive Garden with an ice rink and Gourmet Chalets at the Carlton!”

What do you think is most misunderstood about Cannes as a destination?

Matthias Kaesweber: “That Cannes is a pure summer destination. You can use the Carlton as your personal hub in the heart of the French Riviera and combine it with a city trip, Milano, Paris, or pre or post-skiing in the French, Italian, or Swiss Alps.”

From the Perspective of a Twenty-Year Veteran

Within the travel industry, Carlton Cannes doesn’t exist without Caroline Matey, Director of Sales, who has quite literally been our go-to to ensure clients’ bookings are VIPed for over two decades.

You’ve been at the Carlton Cannes helping to enhance the guest experience for over twenty-three years. How long did the renovation process take and what changed the most?

Caroline Matey: “Over the past two decades, I’ve been fortunate to witness the evolution of this esteemed establishment, encompassing both its product and service dimensions. The paramount objective guiding each transformation has consistently revolved around enhancing the quality of our guests’ experiences. The recent three-year-long metamorphosis of the hotel is emblematic of this commitment. This latest transformation has ushered in significant changes; beyond the comprehensive modernization of our infrastructure and the incorporation of cutting-edge technological advancements, we’ve undertaken aesthetic renovations to fashion more opulent and inviting spaces. Additionally, we’ve expanded our offerings by introducing thirty-seven new luxurious residences, a meticulously landscaped garden, an inviting pool area, diverse dining options, and other amenities.

…in terms of service, we have doubled our workforce and instilled a new vision of excellence within our teams.

In parallel, in terms of service, we have doubled our workforce and instilled a new vision of excellence within our teams aimed at delivering an unparalleled level of customer experience. Comparatively, the Carlton of 2023 stands as an entirely distinct entity from its 2020 counterpart. The hotel has evolved into a holistic destination where our esteemed clientele can savor every moment within a sanctuary insulated from the outside world.”

Which aspect of the hotel’s renovation are you most proud of?

Caroline Matey: “What makes me most proud in this transformation is that, despite all these changes, the historical essence of this mythical place has been preserved. Today, just as before, every single person who steps through the doors of the Carlton Cannes is overwhelmed by a particular and unique emotion, exclusive to the most iconic and historical places on earth.”