When in Cannes

There is nothing like waking up to the French Riviera on an early clear morning at the start of spring. This week, tens of thousands will descend upon the resort town off the Mediterranean coast for the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival, filling city streets as they stop between screenings to unwind on by the water, debrief over drinks, and collect souvenirs to bring back home. The nearly two-week-long international event—which attracts directors, movie stars, and film lovers—has put Cannes on the map, creating a year-long ripple effect across the Côte d'Azur. 

The southeast corner of France is known for its modernist ‘60s architecture like the Palais Bulles and the gardens of the Château Thorenc. With so much to see, a must is the Musée Picasso, originally the Château Grimaldi, nearby in Antibes, which holds permanent pieces in its collection by Germaine Richier, Joan Miró, Amedeo Modigliani, Francis Picabia, Bernard Pagès. For those interested in shopping exclusive resort collections, luxury retailers like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior are all along the Boulevard de la Croisette—mid-spree, stop by Armani/Caffè for a quick espresso and biscotti. For more practical mementos and browsing along the promenade, pop into Couteaux du Chef for all things kitchen or En Sortant de l'École ("Leaving School"), a children's toy store that is great for classic French gifts like a set of dominos!

Then there is the Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic. This luxury stay turns 100 this year and is preparing for the stars to arrive for the film festival. During my stay, I am treated to nothing short of the red carpet treatment—which I come to realize is how the hotel operates 24/7 regardless of what is happening across the street at the Le Palais des Festivals et des Congrès de Cannes. I am greeted by a discreet staff of gentlemen in suits, eager to assist with my luggage, and I’m immediately impressed (it was a long winter in New York). During the past year, Hotel Barriere has undertaken an ambitious program of renovation by the creative vision of architect and interior designer Isabelle Stanislas. Now it is ready for its debut this season, welcoming an influx of leading actors and cinephiles alike. 

The prestige oceanfront suite is perfectly accommodating, modern yet comfortable—a hard act to balance, if I’m being completely honest. I unpack my bag and eventually make my way down to the resort spa and gym, which has a 400-plus-square-foot terrace overlooking the water. Once I get in a quick sweat and make plans for an evening massage, I walk over to the seaside restaurant, Mademoiselle Gray Plage Barrière, which is a quick 5 minute walk along the croisette. I enjoy an ice-cold glass of rosè with the special of the day, piccata de veau au citron et à la sauge. The beauty of the town is that everything is within walking distance. After a long day of exploring, it only feels right to sit by the pool and enjoy a classic sunset martini at Fouquet's before heading down to the newly re-opened Le Ciro’s beach club for a chic and vibrant dinner experience. A favorite among visitors, located on a private beach, the restaurant’s scene goes back to the ‘20s—much like the rest of the Cannes, this old-school glamour never goes out of style. Rest be assured, it will all be there for the next 100 years.