Hotel Royal-Riviera is an impressive five-pearl beachfront property surrounded by gorgeous gardens. The building dates back to 1904 and has a rich history as different hotels and a school during World War II. The current owners obtained it in 1998, when it underwent a huge renovation that reduced the number of rooms from 150 to the 94 that it has today.

The property occupies a cream-colored building accented by terraces and iron railing, and includes a separate golden villa-style building. Interiors are classically elegant and well maintained. The lobby features a mint-green front desk, glossy white floors, and colorful armchairs and sofas placed here and there. There’s a slight Mediterranean hint to the decor, with Romanesque art pieces hanging on the walls, columns, and designs along the ceilings. The restaurant has a similar classic style with cream-colored walls featuring decorative molding, white tablecloths paired with red chairs, fresh flowers, and large windows offering lovely views. The bar is cloaked in earthy tones and features some funky details like a zebra skin on the wall and a totem on the bar, as well as velvet armchairs in crimson, brown, and pale yellow hues, and some with brown palm leaf patterns for a tropical flair. Overall, the hotel offers a luxurious stay and attracts primarily couples on romantic vacations who can be seen enjoying a drink or meal on one of the many terraces. 

This hotel has a private beachfront location on Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. The immediate area is quiet, surrounded by homes and hotels, though there are some restaurants within walking distance. There's a bus stop a five-minute walk from the hotel, while the train station can be reached in 10 minutes on foot, giving access to Nice in about an hour and Monte Carlo in about an hour-and-a-half. Both can also be reached by car in 25 and 35 minutes, respectively. The beautiful Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a 12-minute walk away, where guests can explore the gorgeous, extensive gardens as well as an impressive art collection. Cote d’Azur Airport in Nice is around a 30-minute drive from the property.

All guest rooms at the Hotel Royal-Riviera have private balconies, most of which have sea or garden views. Some guests complain that the entry-level Mountain View Rooms have lackluster views of the train tracks. Rooms are designed in a classic Mediterranean style with a splash of subtle, retro 1950s design, such as the vintage-style chairs and funky shaped mirrors. It’s an inviting atmosphere with a basic white or beige color palette and splashes of sea green, tan, or blue here and there. All come equipped with flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and minibars, though no coffee- or tea-making facilities. There are a number of private villas that are separate from the main building and offer more space, with living rooms and multiple bedrooms. The upscale marble bathrooms have either shower/tub combos or separate tubs and rainfall showers. Bvlgari toiletries, robes, and hairdryers are provided in all, while some also have bidets. 

Hotel Royal-Riviera’s private beach sets it apart from others. There are plenty of lounge chairs on which to relax, while water facilities like boats and skis can be rented from the hotel and accessed straight from the beach. The hotel also has an outdoor heated pool with cabanas and a pool bar. 

The property offers two dining options: Le Jasmin Grill and Lounge is located on a terrace, has an outdoor kitchen, and tandoori oven for Indian dishes, while La Table du Royal has a Michelin-star chef and an elegant indoor atmosphere. The stylish bar has trendy decor and a terrace for outdoor seating. Breakfast costs an extra pricey fee. Room service is available 24/7.

The hotel has a small wellness center with a gym equipped with cardio and weight machines, plus it has a small spa that offers a few beauty treatments as well as a sauna and steam room. The outdoor gardens provide a place for a peaceful walk, and bikes can be rented for exploring the area. There are three meeting rooms and a public computer for guest use. Other amenities include a small on-site boutique and free Wi-Fi and parking. The Royal Kid Program offers welcome gifts for kids, a children’s menu, and DVDs from the concierge.