Four Seasons Firenze
A luxyry hotel steeped in history in the heart of Florence
by Anastasia Bluhm
The moment my car passed through the grand pearly gates of Four Seasons Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, I felt like I’d entered a secret world of Belle Époque glamour. The 17-acre property, perched on the tip of the Cap-Ferrat peninsula, unfolded like a scene from a James Bond film—manicured gardens of lavender and citrus trees, towering Aleppo pines, and the Mediterranean sparkling in the distance. The staff greeted me by name, whisking my bags away as I marveled at the lobby’s white marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and walls adorned with art inspired by Picasso and Matisse
I stayed in a Palace Sea-View Suite in the Heritage Building, where history whispers through every detail. The suite blended old-world charm with modern luxury—soft turquoise accents mirrored the sea, a plush Four Seasons bed (the best I’ve ever slept in), and a marble bathroom stocked with Hermès toiletries. The balcony offered panoramic views of the gardens and the yachts dotting the horizon.
For those craving privacy, the Villa Rose-Pierre—a pink-hued sanctuary with its own pool, tennis court, and rooftop terrace—is a showstopper. Imagine hosting sunset aperitivos there!
For those craving privacy, the Villa Rose-Pierre—a pink-hued sanctuary with its own pool, tennis court, and rooftop terrace—is a showstopper. Imagine hosting sunset aperitivos there!
Club Dauphin: Where Glamour Meets the Sea
The highlight? Club Dauphin, the hotel’s iconic beach club. A glass funicular (my inner child loved this) descended the cliff to a heated seawater infinity pool, where I spent hours lounging in a private cabana. The poolside restaurant served grilled octopus and rosé while helicopters buzzed overhead—pure Riviera energy. Later, I explored the rocky coastline via a hidden gate, following a trail that wraps around the peninsula
The highlight? Club Dauphin, the hotel’s iconic beach club. A glass funicular (my inner child loved this) descended the cliff to a heated seawater infinity pool, where I spent hours lounging in a private cabana. The poolside restaurant served grilled octopus and rosé while helicopters buzzed overhead—pure Riviera energy. Later, I explored the rocky coastline via a hidden gate, following a trail that wraps around the peninsula
Dining: A Michelin-Starred Love Letter to Provence
Dining here is an art form. At Le Cap, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Chef Yoric Tièche reimagined Provençal classics—think mint-infused blue lobster and raspberry vacherin—paired with wines from their 600-bottle cellar. For something whimsical, I dined in the Secret Garden, a hidden oasis of lemon trees and jasmine, where a private chef curated a bespoke menu under fairy lights
Don’t miss La Véranda for alfresco lunches beneath century-old pines, or the Mediterranean BBQ on a private terrace. Every meal felt like a scene from Emily in Paris (fun fact: the hotel appeared in the show!)
Dining here is an art form. At Le Cap, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Chef Yoric Tièche reimagined Provençal classics—think mint-infused blue lobster and raspberry vacherin—paired with wines from their 600-bottle cellar. For something whimsical, I dined in the Secret Garden, a hidden oasis of lemon trees and jasmine, where a private chef curated a bespoke menu under fairy lights
Don’t miss La Véranda for alfresco lunches beneath century-old pines, or the Mediterranean BBQ on a private terrace. Every meal felt like a scene from Emily in Paris (fun fact: the hotel appeared in the show!)
Spa & Wellness: A Sanctuary for the Senses
The subterranean spa, accessed via a Bond-worthy tunnel lined with celebrity photos (Winston Churchill sipping champagne!), was a revelation. I tried the Dr. Burgener collagen-firming treatment—a mix of light therapy and “electricity” that left my skin glowing. The indoor pool with counter-current jets and the hydrotherapy circuit (sauna, steam room, ice fountain) were perfect for post-adventure recovery
The subterranean spa, accessed via a Bond-worthy tunnel lined with celebrity photos (Winston Churchill sipping champagne!), was a revelation. I tried the Dr. Burgener collagen-firming treatment—a mix of light therapy and “electricity” that left my skin glowing. The indoor pool with counter-current jets and the hydrotherapy circuit (sauna, steam room, ice fountain) were perfect for post-adventure recovery
Final Thoughts: Why This Hotel Stole My Heart
Four Seasons Cap-Ferrat isn’t just a hotel—it’s a time capsule of Riviera elegance, where every detail feels intentional. From the staff who remembered my coffee order to the golden-hour light bathing the gardens, it’s a place where luxury feels effortless. Whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family craving space (hello, villas!), or a solo traveler chasing serenity, this hotel delivers magic.
Pro tip for followers: Visit in April or October for lower rates (€710/night vs. summer’s €2,500+) and fewer crowds. And don’t skip the funicular—it’s a vibe!
📸 Swipe up for my highlights reel: sunset terraces, spa secrets, and that infinity pool!
Four Seasons Cap-Ferrat isn’t just a hotel—it’s a time capsule of Riviera elegance, where every detail feels intentional. From the staff who remembered my coffee order to the golden-hour light bathing the gardens, it’s a place where luxury feels effortless. Whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family craving space (hello, villas!), or a solo traveler chasing serenity, this hotel delivers magic.
Pro tip for followers: Visit in April or October for lower rates (€710/night vs. summer’s €2,500+) and fewer crowds. And don’t skip the funicular—it’s a vibe!
📸 Swipe up for my highlights reel: sunset terraces, spa secrets, and that infinity pool!
