My dear travellers and lovers of unusual journeys, welcome to the new hotel review on the Mr.M blog. When we travel somewhere, hotels represent some of our home away from the one we are used to, while for some people it is a place to stay the night. On the other hand, there are hotels that become part of the travel story itself. Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa belongs to this second, much rarer group. As soon as I entered, I was greeted by a surprise. On the table was a handwritten card, signed with the name Roberto Boscolo. In it, the Italian family welcomes me to “their Italian home” and promises a stay guided by the vision of Fatto con amore, which in translation would mean “done with love”.
That detail says more than any star. This five-star hotel in the heart of Nice unites two souls. On one side stands French Belle Époque elegance. On the other hand, there is warm Italian hospitality. In the following, I will guide you through every corner of this building. I will share with you the impressions from the room, from the spa center and from the restaurant Angelo. Finally, there is a short guide through Nice and the famous Cote d’Azur.
BOSCOLO NICE HOTEL & SPA: A LUXURIOUS STAY IN THE HEART OF NICE
The Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa hotel is located at 12 Boulevard Victor Hugo. It is one of the most beautiful and quiet streets in the city center in Nice. A row of greenery provides shade even during the hottest summer days. A red flag with the Boscolo sign flies over the entrance. Next to it stand the French and Italian flags, as an announcement of what awaits you inside.
The location is, in my opinion, one of the biggest advantages of this hotel. The main pedestrian street, Avenue Jean-Médecin, is just a few steps away. The famous Promenade des Anglais and the sea can be reached in ten minutes on foot. The old town and Massena square are equally close. The railway station is about seven hundred meters away, and Nice airport is only seven kilometers away.
The facade immediately catches the eye. The color of the sand and the rich stucco give off the spirit of the beginning of the twentieth century. Wrought iron balconies and curved skylights add elegance. The green canopy in front of the entrance softens the severity of the stone. Standing on the sidewalk, I felt I was entering a part of Nice’s history, not just another hotel. This is precisely why this building acts as a monument and not as an ordinary building.
HISTORY OF THE HOTEL: FROM “HOTEL DU RHIN” TO THE BOSCOLO BUILDING
The story of this magnificent building begins back in 1913. It was then designed by Charles Dalmas, the most respected architect of Nice’s Belle Époque. He left behind about a hundred houses and about twenty hotels. The Hermitage Hotel, the Winter Palace and the Royal Hotel on the Promenade des Anglais bear his signature. Rich guests asked for luxury, and Dalmas presented them with stone transformed into art.
The building was initially named “Hotel du Rhin”. The project was initiated by the Swiss hotelier Baumgartner. Over time, the owners changed, so the building became known as Hotel Atlantik. It is interesting that the original appearance had a dome associated with the name of Gustave Eiffel. It disappeared during later renovations.
The real turning point came in 2000. Then the Italian family and company Boscolo bought the hotel. This was followed by a thorough renovation signed by a group of famous Italian creators. Among them are Maurizio Papiri, Massimo Iozza Gini, Sergio Minorello and Simone Micheli. The works combined old and new in an unexpected way.
The result is a rare combination of two worlds. The exterior has remained true to the Belle Époque style and today bears the label “Historical Hotel Nice”. The interior, on the other hand, has become bold and contemporary. White color, marble and modern art dominate the interior. It is this contrast that makes Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa so distinctive.
BOSCOLO NICE HOTEL & SPA: LOBBY AS A GALLERY OF MODERN ART
Entering the lobby leaves a strong impression. Everything is white, from the marble floor to the walls. Such minimalism seems almost museum-like. However, the space is not cold, but pleasant and bright. The sun’s rays through the high windows further enliven the whiteness.
Two large sculptures of horses immediately attract attention. They are made of metal strips and appear to be in motion. In the background stands a large figurative canvas under glass. Next to it is a white concert piano. That scene combines classics and avant-garde in the same breath.
Boscolo is known for his love of art. Sculptures, paintings and carefully selected pieces of furniture accompany the guest at every step. Even the smallest details show that commitment. I read somewhere that the doorknobs are shaped like a white rose, which perfectly describes the spirit of the house. This level of attention is rarely found even in top hotels.
The interior staircase has a special charm. White wrought iron winds its way up through several floors. Knitted lampshades cast a warm light. I stopped there for a moment, just to absorb the atmosphere of the old, elegant building. I thought how many travellers had passed through the same stairs in more than a century.
WHY THE EXCLUSIVE ROOM WITH TERRACE MADE MY STAY UNFORGETTABLE?
I stayed in the Exclusive Room with Terrace category, a special room with two terraces overlooking the avenue. It is one of the most pleasant categories in the hotel. The room is spacious and bathed in natural light. The light parquet floor brings warmth to the space. The high ceiling further enhances the feeling of freedom.
The colors are gentle and subdued. White and cream shades dominate the walls and textiles. Above the bed stands a sumptuous headboard in white rococo style. That baroque detail goes nicely with the clean lines of the rest of the room.
The bed was extremely comfortable. The bedding is soft, and the pillows with the Boscolo logo add a touch of luxury. A coffee machine was waiting for me next to the bed. There was also a small sitting area in the corner with fresh flowers. There were also welcome treats, as a silent greeting from the host.
The bathroom in the room followed the same elegant style. The walls and counter are made of light stone. The bowl-shaped sink looks modern and clean. A large mirror further expands the space. Boscolo care products were waiting for me on the counter. There was also liquid soap from the house line. Soft white towels were neatly folded. Everything exuded orderliness and attention to the guest. Namely, such details leave a lasting impression.
I woke up the next morning in no rush. I stretched in bed and immediately felt calm. The room is quiet, although it overlooks a lively part of the city. Thick curtains and quality windows preserve tranquility. It is this combination of space, silence and comfort that makes this exceptional room worthy of attention.
BOSCOLO NICE HOTEL & SPA: THE PERFECT START TO THE DAY ON THE CÔTE D’AZUR
The biggest advantage of my room at the Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa was the terrace. I opened the door and stepped out onto the wrought iron balcony. Below me stretched the tree-lined Boulevard Victor Hugo. The red Boscolo flag flew right next to the fence.
Morning coffee on that terrace was a special experience for me. I leaned on the railing and watched the city wake up. The sun was shining on the white facades of the surrounding buildings. In the distance, domes and roofs in terracotta colors could be seen. The air smelled of spring and that characteristic smell of the Mediterranean when you are by the sea.
The view also included palm trees along the street. Pedestrians walked lightly on the sidewalk below me. From the balcony, you can clearly see the rich decorations of the hotel’s facade itself. This scene perfectly combines city life and Mediterranean peace. Rarely where can one feel the spirit of a city so easily.
In such moments, you understand why Nice is special. I had both history and everyday life in front of me. Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa gave me a quiet corner above the bustling city. Therefore, it was difficult for me to leave the terrace and start exploring. Still, the city was calling, so I went for a walk.
BOSCOLO NICE HOTEL & SPA: THE LITTLE DETAILS THAT MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE
Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa stands out for its small signs of attention. It is they who turn the stay into a real experience. In the room, soft white slippers with the house’s golden sign were waiting for me. I put them on right away and felt right at home.
There was also a tray with macaroni on the table. They came in three colors and three flavors, arranged on branded Boscolo paper. Next to them stood boxes with the inscription “Buona Notte”. It is a small gift for a pleasant sleep, in the true Italian spirit. One remembers such gestures long after leaving.
There was also skin care. I received travel sets from the Japanese brand Forlle’d. Next to them stood Boscolo masks for the eye area. Such details show that the hotel thinks about every moment of the stay. Namely, the difference between good and top lies in the little things.
I especially liked the little notebook on the table. It read “My Nice Plan”, with space for notes. I used it to write down the places I wanted to visit. Morning coffee from a branded cup, with the house’s logo in the cocoa, was the perfect start to the day. Thus, even a small ritual acquires a special meaning.
WHAT IS BOSCOLO NICE HOTEL & SPA KNOWN FOR?
Many people wonder why this particular hotel is so popular. There are many reasons, and each one has its weight. First of all, there is a protected white epoch facade from 1913. It is part of the architectural heritage of Nice and bears the designation of a historic hotel.
Another reason is the bold interior. Famous Italian designers turned the interior into a gallery. White sculptures, large canvases and modern furniture are breathtaking. Thus, the inside of the classic building turned into a contemporary work of art.
The third reason is the wealth of content. Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa has a spa, a rooftop pool and three restaurants. Each guest can easily find their own corner of peace or pleasure. In addition, the Italian Boscolo family brings a special warmth. Their truffles, olive oil and grapes come straight from Italy.
Finally, there is responsible business. The hotel also carries the “Green Key” environmental label. This shows that luxury and care for nature can go together. All this makes Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa one of the most famous addresses in the city. No wonder guests are happy to return year after year.
BOSCOLO SPA & WELLNESS: 500 SQUARE METERS OF PURE RELAXATION
The heart of tranquility in this hotel is located in the ground floor Spa center. It covers about five hundred square meters. The design is signed by the famous architect Simone Micheli. As soon as you enter, you feel that you are entering another world.
The main impression is the indoor pool. In its center stands a white tree-like sculpture. Streams of water flow from its branches. They provide a kind of natural massage while you swim. Such a scene seems almost unreal.
A mosaic in shades of blue covers the walls and ceiling. Candles around the pool add warmth and calm. I lay down on the lounger and simply surrendered to the silence. The gurgling of the water quickly took away the tiredness of the journey. Time seemed to stand still for a moment.
The spa offers much more than a pool. There is a hammam, a sauna and a relaxation area. The salt wall, which glows slightly, has a special charm. The relaxation room, with its white lounge chairs and rolled-up towels, is ideal for complete relaxation. After an hour I came out completely refreshed. Therefore, I recommend every guest to spend at least one afternoon in this corner.
BCLUB ROOFTOP: A POOL WITH 360-DEGREE VIEWS
A completely different experience awaits at the top of the hotel. The roof terrace is called Bclub Rooftop. From there there is a view of a full three hundred and sixty degrees. In front of you are the city, the hills in the hinterland and a piece of clear sky.
There is also an outdoor swimming pool on the terrace. Comfortable sofas with red cushions are arranged around it. The white fringed parasols moved gently in the breeze. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a classy Mediterranean club.
This place is ideal for a break during the day. You can swim, sunbathe or just watch the city from above. In the evening, the terrace becomes a lively social place. With a cocktail in hand, the sunset over Nice seems unreal. I carried such a sight in my memory for a long time.
The set tables also invite you to have lunch or dinner. White tablecloths and glasses glistened in the sun. I sat by the edge of the pool and took in the view. Such a combination of luxury and relaxation is rarely found. That is why Bclub is rightly considered one of the symbols of the hotel.
LUNCH AT ANGELO RESTAURANT: A TASTE OF ITALIAN GASTRONOMY
Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa has as many as three restaurants with an Italian soul. There is the gourmet restaurant Angelo and the Italian bar Genesi. They are joined by the aforementioned Bclub roof terrace. I decided to spend lunch at the Angelo restaurant.
The ambience is warm and full of character. The tables are made of solid wood, and the plates are hand-painted. Such details immediately announce a real Italian table. The Boscolo family personally selects their ingredients, from truffles to olive oil. That’s why every bite bears the seal of origin.
I started with the truffle pizza. It was topped with mozzarella fior di latte and cherry tomatoes. The black truffle gave depth and a sumptuous aroma. It was a pizza you remember for days.
Next came the main course. I ordered a tadjata made from Charolais beef fillet. The meat was perfectly prepared, accompanied by parmesan cheese and a fresh salad. I washed everything down with the famous Angelo cocktail. That combination of flavors seemed almost festive.
I left the tiramisu for last. It was sprinkled with fresh berries and cocoa. I still remember that dessert with a smile. Lunch at the Angelo restaurant was a pure Mediterranean treat. Therefore, I highly recommend it to every guest.
NICE: A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE CITY
Nice is not just a city by the sea. It is also a living monument of European history. The city was founded by the Greeks around 350 BC. They named him after Nika, the goddess of victory.
For centuries, Nice has attracted travelers from northern Europe. In the nineteenth century it became a favorite winter destination. The rich aristocracy built luxurious villas and hotels. It is precisely from that era that the white epoch architecture of the city originates. That is why Nice is affectionately called “Nissa La Bella”.
That particularity has also received world recognition. In 2021, UNESCO entered Nice on the World Heritage List. The city received the status of “winter resort of the Riviera”. The protection includes the urban core of five hundred and twenty two hectares.
The Promenade des Anglais also belongs to that area. It also includes the posh districts of Simiez and Mont Boron. Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa is located in the heart of this protected complex. Therefore, staying here also means walking through real history. Every step through the center reveals a new story.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN NICE: FROM THE PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS TO THE OLD TOWN
Nice offers a lot for the curious traveller. I would start from the famous Promenade des Anglais. That famous promenade along the sea is about seven kilometers long. Many rightly call it the Champs-Élysées of the Riviera.
The Old Town is the next place I recommend. Narrow streets hide baroque churches and colorful facades. There is also a market on the Cours Saleya square. The smell of flowers and fresh food fills the air. That’s where I felt the real pulse of the city.
The hill with the castle offers the most beautiful view of Nice. The climb is worth it because of the view of the rooftops and the sea. Massena Square is the heart of city life. The red facades and the fountain of the sun give it a special charm.
The cathedral and Avenue Jean Médecin should not be missed either. The first delights with its beauty, and the second calls for a purchase. Art lovers can also visit the museums in the Cimiez quarter. Works by Matisse and Chagall are kept there. Thus, there is something worthy of attention for every taste.
It is also worth taking a walk through the Promenade du Paillon park. It is a green oasis in the heart of the city. Shoppers will enjoy The Carré d’Or district. There are boutiques of famous world brands. After the tour, you will enjoy a break with a coffee in a square.
DAY TRIPS FROM NICE: CANNES AND MONTE CARLO WITHIN EASY REACH
The location of Nice is ideal for excursions. The entire Cote d’Azur is within reach. Cannes is located about thirty kilometers to the west. That film city is known for its famous festival.
Cannes is easily accessible by train or car. The drive takes about half an hour. A walk through Boulevard de La Croisette and a visit to the harbor are a real treat. The city exudes glamor throughout the year. Therefore, it is worth visiting outside the festival days.
In the opposite direction lies opulent Monaco. Monte Carlo is only twenty minutes away by train or by public bus. A famous casino and a harbor full of yachts await you there. The principality leaves the impression of a fairy-tale place.
Other nearby places are also worth visiting. The village of Eze offers views from a height and narrow stone streets. Menton is famous for its lemons and warm climate. Antibes hides the old town and the Picasso Museum. The village of Saint-Paul-de-Vance has been beckoning artists for decades. Grass is the perfume capital of the world. From Nice, you can visit all of them without any effort. This is why this city is considered the perfect starting point for discovering the south of France.
BOSCOLO NICE HOTEL & SPA: ESSENTIAL INFORMATION FOR YOUR STAY
Good preparation makes every trip easier. That’s why I’m giving you some useful tips. Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa is located in the very center of Nice. The sea and main sights can be reached on foot.
Nice airport is only seven kilometers away. The hotel is easily accessible by taxi or tram. The tram ride takes about half an hour. The train station is ten minutes’ walk away. Therefore, the hotel is also convenient for those arriving by train.
The hotel has over one hundred and ten rooms and suites. Categories range from comfortable rooms to spacious suites. My Exclusive Room with Terrace also offers a precious terrace. I recommend it to those who want a quiet corner above the city.
The best time to visit is spring and early autumn. Then the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are significantly less. Summer brings heat and lots of tourists. However, the rooftop pool then becomes a real oasis. Breakfast on the terrace of the Genesi restaurant lasts until noon. It is ideal for those who like relaxed mornings. The spa is worth booking in advance. That way you will definitely find a free appointment.
The hotel also carries the “Green Key” environmental label. This means careful use of water and energy. Guests are unobtrusively offered small, responsible actions. In this way, luxury also gets a touch of care for nature. Finally, set aside at least two or three days. Dedicate one day to the hotel and spa center itself. Use other days for Nice and surrounding excursions. That way you will get the most out of this stay.
WHY BOSCOLO NICE HOTEL & SPA IS WORTH A VISIT?
Staying in this hotel left a deep mark in my memory. The combination of French elegance and Italian warmth is rare. The Belle Epoque building from 1913 radiates a new glow today. Every detail exudes attention and taste.
The location could hardly be better. The center of Nice, the sea and excursions are within reach. The room with the terrace gave me peace and space. The spa center and roof terrace completed the experience. So I got both a vacation and an adventure for one stay.
I especially remember lunch at the Angelo restaurant. Italian flavors and hand-painted plates were the highlight. Along with that, there are small signs of attention at every step. It is they who make the difference between good and unforgettable.
I recommend this hotel to mature travelers with refined taste. I mean those who appreciate history, art and peace. Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa is not just a place to stay. It is a destination in itself, in the heart of the most beautiful coast in the world. Therefore, I myself will gladly return as soon as I have the opportunity.
If you are planning a trip to Nice, this hotel deserves your sincere attention. It is not just a place to sleep. It is part of the story of the pearl of the French Riviera. And I am happy that I became a part of that story, even if only for a short time!
See you soon, maybe again in Nice. Until then, let this text be your guide to one of the most beautiful hotel experiences in Europe.
With Love from Nice,
Mr.M
This post is sponsored by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) and the Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa, as well as other local partners who selflessly supported this project. This post is my personal and honest review of the destination experience.
Hello Marko, I have followed your hotel diaries for years now, and this Boscolo review may be my favourite of the French series so far. What struck me most is the way you framed the building as a monument rather than just a place to sleep; that handwritten card from Roberto Boscolo sets exactly the right tone. I have always believed that the difference between a good hotel and a great one lives in the small gestures, and the “Buona Notte” boxes and the rose-shaped door handles prove your point beautifully. The contrast you describe between the protected 1913 façade… Read more »
Lieber Marko, dein Bericht über das Boscolo Nice hat mich sofort an unsere letzte Reise an die Côte d’Azur erinnert. Wir hatten damals im Hôtel Hermitage in Monte-Carlo gewohnt, das natürlich grandios ist, aber von einer fast schon kühlen Eleganz. Was du hier beschreibst, klingt deutlich wärmer und persönlicher, gerade durch diese italienische Seele der Familie Boscolo. Besonders der Innenpool mit der weißen Baumskulptur und den fließenden Wasserläufen hat es mir angetan. So etwas habe ich in dieser Form noch nirgends gesehen. Ein wirklich gelungener Beitrag, der Lust auf Nizza macht.
Ciao Marko, che recensione accurata e piacevole da leggere. Conosco bene Nizza perché ci torno quasi ogni primavera, ma non avevo mai prestato attenzione a questo palazzo del 1913 di Charles Dalmas. Il fatto che l’esterno resti fedele alla Belle Époque mentre l’interno sia così contemporaneo è un equilibrio difficile da raggiungere. Mi ha colpito soprattutto il dettaglio dei tartufi e dell’olio d’oliva che la famiglia Boscolo porta direttamente dall’Italia. Posso chiederti se il ristorante Angelo è aperto anche agli ospiti esterni o soltanto a chi alloggia in hotel? Vorrei provarlo alla mia prossima visita.
Marko, what a thorough and honest review. My wife and I spent a week on the Riviera two summers ago and stayed at Le Negresco, which remains a landmark in its own right, though it can feel almost like a museum you happen to sleep in. Reading your description of the Boscolo, I get the sense it strikes a more relaxed and liveable balance, especially with that rooftop pool and the 360-degree views from the Bclub. I am curious how the rooftop compares with the heated indoor spa pool in terms of atmosphere; which one did you find yourself returning… Read more »
Bonjour Marko, votre article est un vrai plaisir à lire et donne immédiatement envie de réserver. J’habite à Lyon et je descends souvent à Nice au printemps, mais je ne connaissais pas l’histoire de cet hôtel, ancien “Hotel du Rhin” devenu la maison Boscolo en 2000. Le contraste entre la façade classée de 1913 et l’intérieur blanc et résolument moderne me semble vraiment réussi. J’ai beaucoup aimé que vous insistiez sur la situation, à deux pas de l’avenue Jean-Médecin et à dix minutes de la Promenade des Anglais. Savez-vous si l’hôtel propose un service de voiturier, car se garer dans… Read more »
Hola Marko, llevo tiempo siguiendo tu blog y esta reseña mantiene el nivel altísimo de siempre. Hace tres años nos alojamos en el Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, que es sencillamente espectacular por sus jardines y su vista al mar, aunque queda algo aislado del centro. Lo que más me atrae de tu Boscolo es justo lo contrario: estar en pleno corazón de Niza y poder llegar caminando a la Promenade des Anglais en diez minutos. El detalle de las puertas con pomos en forma de rosa blanca me ha parecido una preciosidad muy poco habitual. Además, me ha encantado cómo describes… Read more »
Hello Marko, I always appreciate how much research you put into the history of a building rather than just the amenities. The detail about the original dome being linked to Gustave Eiffel and disappearing in later renovations was completely new to me, and now I want to find old photographs of it. You mention the hotel has over a hundred and ten rooms, yet your writing makes it feel intimate rather than large, which is a real achievement in itself. I also enjoyed that you gave honest practical advice, like booking the spa ahead of time. The Forlle’d skincare sets… Read more »
Wat een verzorgde en sfeervolle recensie weer. Mijn vrouw en ik verbleven een paar jaar geleden in het Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc bij Antibes, werkelijk adembenemend, maar ook nogal formeel en afgelegen. Jouw beschrijving van het Boscolo spreekt me juist aan door die warme, Italiaanse toon midden in de stad. Vooral het dak met het zwembad en het uitzicht van driehonderdzestig graden lijkt me heerlijk voor het einde van de dag. Ook de ligging vlak bij het oude centrum en het station is een groot pluspunt. Ik bewaar dit artikel zeker voor onze volgende reis naar de Rivièra.
Cześć Marko, czytam Twojego bloga od dłuższego czasu i ta recenzja znów stoi na najwyższym poziomie. Byłem w Nicei jeszcze przed pandemią, ale zatrzymałem się wtedy w zupełnie zwyczajnym hotelu i niewiele zapamiętałem poza Promenade des Anglais. Twój opis Boscolo, z tą fasadą z 1913 roku i nowoczesnym, białym wnętrzem, pokazuje zupełnie inny poziom podróżowania. Szczególnie spodobał mi się fragment o restauracji Angelo i pizzy z truflami oraz mozzarellą fior di latte. Czy wiesz, czy hotel oferuje transfer z lotniska, czy lepiej wziąć tramwaj, o którym wspominasz? Planuję wrócić na Lazurowe Wybrzeże wiosną i chętnie skorzystam z Twoich wskazówek.
Marko, this is exactly the kind of review I trust because you mix genuine admiration with practical honesty. We celebrated an anniversary at the Château de la Chèvre d’Or in Èze a couple of years back, perched above the sea, which was unforgettable but required a car for absolutely everything. The appeal of your Boscolo is clearly that you can step out of the door straight into the life of Nice. I loved the image of morning coffee on the wrought-iron balcony above Boulevard Victor Hugo with the terracotta roofs in the distance. The fact that the building carries both… Read more »
Hallo Marko, ein wunderbar geschriebener Bericht, den ich mit großem Interesse gelesen habe. Mich fasziniert vor allem die Geschichte des Hauses, vom Architekten Charles Dalmas bis zum Umbau durch Simone Micheli und seine Kollegen im Jahr 2000. Diese Verbindung aus historischer Fassade und sehr moderner Kunst im Inneren finde ich außerordentlich gelungen. Eine Frage hätte ich aber: Ist das Frühstück auf der Terrasse des Genesi im Zimmerpreis enthalten, oder wird es separat berechnet? Wir planen für den frühen Herbst eine Reise nach Nizza, weil du ja zu Recht von weniger Trubel in dieser Jahreszeit sprichst. Danke, dass du immer auch… Read more »
Olá Marko, sigo o teu blog há bastante tempo e esta crítica está, como sempre, impecável. Há dois anos ficámos hospedados no Hôtel Martinez, em Cannes, que é magnífico de frente para a Croisette, embora um pouco impessoal na forma como recebe os hóspedes. O que mais me agrada no teu Boscolo é precisamente esse lado humano e caloroso, com o cartão escrito à mão por Roberto Boscolo logo à chegada. Achei fascinante a ideia de um hotel que funciona como uma galeria de arte, com as esculturas de cavalos e o piano branco no átrio. A descrição do almoço… Read more »
I have read your Paris and Nice letters with real pleasure, and this hotel review feels like the perfect companion to them. The way you describe the spa, with the white tree sculpture and water flowing from its branches over the swimmers, is genuinely evocative. The figure of around five hundred square metres gives a sense of just how generous the wellness area must be. Your point about the salt wall glowing softly made me want to experience it for myself. I also appreciated that you remind readers to set aside two or three full days, one for the hotel… Read more »
Bonjour Marko, quel récit élégant et plein de justesse. Il y a quelques années, nous avions séjourné au Château Saint-Martin & Spa, au-dessus de Vence, un endroit superbe mais assez coupé de l’animation de la côte. Votre Boscolo offre visiblement l’inverse, ce luxe tranquille en plein cœur de Nice, à quelques pas de la vieille ville et de la place Masséna. J’ai été particulièrement séduit par votre description de la terrasse et du café du matin face aux toits en terre cuite. Le mariage entre l’élégance française de la Belle Époque et la chaleur italienne de la famille Boscolo me… Read more »
Ciao Marko, complimenti per questa recensione così curata e mai banale. Sono stato a Nizza tre estati fa e ricordo benissimo il mercato di Cours Saleya con i fiori e il profumo della frutta fresca. Mi ha fatto piacere ritrovare quei dettagli nel tuo racconto, insieme alla storia dell’edificio del 1913. Trovo affascinante che la famiglia Boscolo abbia trasformato un vecchio albergo in una vera galleria d’arte, con le sculture di cavalli e i pomelli a forma di rosa bianca. Volevo chiederti: la piscina sul tetto del Bclub è riservata agli ospiti dell’hotel oppure è aperta anche per chi prenota… Read more »
A beautifully observed piece that captures the spirit of Nice perfectly. We stayed at the Anantara Plaza Nice a while ago, right on Place Masséna, which has a wonderful rooftop of its own, so your description of the Bclub immediately drew me in. What sets the Boscolo apart, from your account, is that Italian dimension layered over a French Belle Époque shell, something the more conventional grand hotels simply do not offer. The handwritten welcome from Roberto Boscolo and the “Fatto con amore” philosophy clearly run through the whole experience. I was also pleased to read that the hotel holds… Read more »
Hola Marko, qué reseña tan completa y bien escrita, se nota que conoces a fondo el lugar. Visité Niza poco antes de la pandemia y me quedé con ganas de volver, sobre todo por el casco antiguo y la subida a la colina del castillo. Me ha encantado tu descripción del hotel como un edificio histórico de 1913 convertido en un espacio de arte contemporáneo. Tengo una duda práctica: ¿el spa y la piscina de la azotea están incluidos para los huéspedes o se pagan aparte? Lo pregunto porque me gustaría reservar al menos una tarde entera de relax, como… Read more »
Witaj Marko, od dawna śledzę Twoje relacje z podróży i zawsze czekam na kolejny wpis. Kilka lat temu zatrzymaliśmy się z żoną w Hôtel Royal-Riviera w Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, który ma piękny ogród i widok na morze, ale leży dość daleko od centrum. To, co opisujesz w Boscolo, ma tę przewagę, że znajduje się w samym sercu Nicei, kilka kroków od Promenade des Anglais. Bardzo podobał mi się opis tarasu na dachu z basenem i widokiem na całe miasto. Zachwycił mnie też fragment o spa z białą rzeźbą drzewa, z którego spływa woda. Z przyjemnością dodaję ten hotel do listy miejsc na… Read more »
Hello Marko, I genuinely look forward to your hotel diaries, and this one did not disappoint. The historical section was a real pleasure, particularly learning that Charles Dalmas also designed the Hermitage and the Winter Palace; you can feel that pedigree in the façade. I was curious about the Exclusive Room with Terrace you chose, which you say has two terraces over the avenue. Are both equally usable, or is one noticeably larger and more private than the other? I ask because that quiet morning coffee above Boulevard Victor Hugo is exactly the experience I would be booking it for.… Read more »
Beste Marko, ik volg je blog al een hele tijd en geniet steeds weer van je grondige verslagen. Wat me in dit stuk vooral aanspreekt, is de geschiedenis van het gebouw, van het oude “Hotel du Rhin” tot de overname door de familie Boscolo in 2000. De combinatie van een beschermde gevel uit 1913 en een heel modern, wit interieur klinkt bijzonder. Ik heb wel een vraag: is het restaurant Angelo ook ‘s avonds geopend, of serveren ze vooral ‘s middags? We willen volgend voorjaar een paar dagen naar Nice en zouden daar graag uitgebreid dineren. Bedankt voor weer een… Read more »
Lieber Marko, dein Bericht ist wieder ein echter Genuss und sehr kenntnisreich geschrieben. Vor einigen Jahren waren meine Frau und ich in La Réserve de Beaulieu, das direkt am Meer liegt und herrlich ist, aber eben außerhalb des Stadtzentrums. Beim Boscolo reizt mich genau das Gegenteil, nämlich die Lage mitten in Nizza, fußläufig zur Altstadt und zum Bahnhof. Besonders schön finde ich, dass die Familie Boscolo Trüffel, Olivenöl und Trauben direkt aus Italien bezieht. Solche Details über die Herkunft der Zutaten sagen viel über die Philosophie eines Hauses aus. Vielen Dank für diesen inspirierenden Einblick, der Vorfreude auf die Riviera… Read more »
Marko, this is travel writing at its best, detailed without ever becoming a list of features. The notebook titled “My Nice Plan” is such a charming idea, and I love that you actually used it to map out your days. Your tip about the airport tram taking roughly half an hour is exactly the kind of practical detail that makes planning easier. We tend to travel fairly light these days, so that option sounds ideal for us. The way you weave the UNESCO listing and the 522-hectare protected core into the story gives the whole piece real depth. Excellent work… Read more »
Ciao Marko, è sempre un piacere leggere i tuoi diari di viaggio così dettagliati. Qualche anno fa ho soggiornato al Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, a Monaco, una struttura splendida ma piuttosto grande e dispersiva. Quello che mi attrae del Boscolo è invece il calore tutto italiano nel cuore di una città francese, con quel biglietto di benvenuto firmato da Roberto Boscolo. Ho apprezzato molto la descrizione del ristorante Angelo, con i tavoli in legno massiccio e i piatti dipinti a mano. Il tiramisù con i frutti di bosco e il cacao mi ha fatto venire l’acquolina in bocca. Conto… Read more »
Bonjour Marko, je suis votre blog depuis longtemps et je retrouve à chaque fois ce mélange de culture et de sens du détail. J’ai eu la chance de visiter Nice juste avant la pandémie, mais je logeais à l’extérieur et je n’avais pas pris la mesure du centre historique. Votre description de la place Masséna avec ses façades rouges et la fontaine du Soleil m’a rappelé de très bons souvenirs. Une question me vient : avez-vous trouvé le quartier de Boulevard Victor Hugo vraiment calme la nuit, malgré la proximité de l’avenue Jean-Médecin ? Je suis assez sensible au bruit… Read more »
Marko, a genuinely immersive review that left me wanting to book the next flight south. Some years ago we stayed at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, all marble and Belle Époque grandeur, which was memorable but perhaps a touch formal for our taste now. What appeals about the Boscolo is the warmth you describe: the rose-shaped door handles, the macarons in three colours, the “Buona Notte” boxes by the bed. Those small Italian touches turn a stay into a memory, as you rightly say. I also liked your honest note that summer brings heat and crowds, with the rooftop pool… Read more »
Olá Marko, que excelente reportagem, escrita com muito cuidado e sensibilidade. Estive em Nice há cerca de três anos e ainda me lembro do mercado de Cours Saleya e do cheiro das flores de manhã. Gostei muito de reencontrar esses detalhes no teu texto, agora com a história deste palácio de 1913. Fiquei curiosa sobre uma coisa: o pequeno-almoço no terraço do Genesi, que dizes durar até ao meio-dia, é em buffet ou servido à mesa? Pergunto porque aprecio manhãs sem pressa, tal como descreves. Obrigada por mais um artigo que me faz querer voltar à Riviera Francesa muito em… Read more »
Cześć Marko, Twoje wpisy to dla mnie zawsze połączenie wiedzy i prawdziwej pasji do podróży. Parę lat temu nocowaliśmy w Carlton Cannes przy słynnej Croisette, który robi wrażenie, ale jest dość bezosobowy w obsłudze. W Boscolo urzeka mnie właśnie ten ludzki, włoski charakter w sercu Nicei, z odręcznym powitaniem od Roberta Boscolo. Świetnie opisałeś też lobby przypominające galerię sztuki, z rzeźbami koni i białym fortepianem. Najbardziej jednak zapadł mi w pamięć fragment o spa zaprojektowanym przez Simone Michelego. Z chęcią wybiorę się tam podczas najbliższej wizyty na Lazurowym Wybrzeżu.
Hello Marko, I have followed your travels for a good while and your eye for detail keeps me coming back. The contrast you draw between the museum-like white lobby and the warmth of the welcome is something I find very appealing. I did wonder about the Exclusive Room with Terrace in summer, though: with two terraces facing the avenue, does it get a lot of afternoon sun, and is there air conditioning to balance that? We feel the heat more than we used to and like to know these things in advance. I appreciated your reminder to book spa appointments… Read more »
Witaj Marko, znów udało Ci się napisać tekst, który łączy wiedzę z prawdziwą przyjemnością czytania. Kilka lat temu zatrzymaliśmy się w Le Méridien Beach Plaza w Monte Carlo, z własną plażą i basenami, ale o dość bezosobowym, sieciowym charakterze. W Boscolo urzeka mnie zupełnie inny klimat, ta włoska serdeczność w samym sercu Nicei. Bardzo podobał mi się opis pokoju Exclusive z dwoma tarasami nad bulwarem Victor Hugo. Poranna kawa na kutym balkonie, którą opisujesz, brzmi jak idealny początek dnia. Z pewnością wezmę pod uwagę ten hotel podczas najbliższej podróży na Lazurowe Wybrzeże.
Hola Marko, llevo años leyéndote y esta reseña vuelve a ser una pequeña joya. Hace un par de veranos nos alojamos en Terre Blanche, en Tourrettes, un resort espectacular con un spa enorme, aunque en pleno campo y dependiente del coche para todo. Tu Boscolo me atrae justo por lo contrario, ese lujo tranquilo en el corazón de Niza, a un paso del casco antiguo. Me ha fascinado el spa de Simone Micheli, con la piscina interior y la escultura blanca en forma de árbol. ¿Sabes si el spa ofrece tratamientos o masajes, además del acceso a la piscina y… Read more »
Bonjour Marko, voilà un récit qui conjugue à merveille l’histoire et l’art de vivre. Il y a quelques années, nous avions séjourné au Lily of the Valley, à La Croix-Valmer, un superbe hôtel de bien-être sur les hauteurs, mais assez isolé et dépendant de la voiture. Votre Boscolo me séduit pour la raison inverse, ce raffinement au cœur de Nice, à quelques minutes de la place Masséna. J’ai été particulièrement touché par votre évocation du petit carnet « My Nice Plan » sur lequel vous notiez vos visites. Cette attention au détail en dit long sur l’esprit de la maison… Read more »
Opnieuw een prachtig verslag dat ik van begin tot eind heb uitgelezen. De geschiedenis van het gebouw, van het oude “Hotel du Rhin” tot de familie Boscolo in 2000, vond ik fascinerend. Ik heb nog een vraag over de uitstapjes die je noemt: is Monaco echt in twintig minuten te bereiken met de trein, en vertrekt die direct vanuit het centrum van Nice? We zouden graag een dag naar Monte-Carlo gaan en een dag naar Èze. Je tip om in het voorjaar of het vroege najaar te reizen nemen we zeker ter harte. Dank je wel voor dit heldere en… Read more »
Olá Marko, mais um artigo extraordinário, escrito com muito rigor e sensibilidade. Fiquei encantado com a descrição do átrio quase museológico, com as esculturas de cavalos e o piano branco. Tenho uma pergunta sobre o quarto Exclusive com Terraço que escolheste: vale realmente a pena pelo terraço, ou os quartos mais simples já oferecem uma boa experiência? Estamos a planear uns dias em Nice no início do outono e queremos escolher bem. Achei muito útil o teu conselho de dedicar um dia inteiro ao hotel e ao spa. Obrigado por partilhares tantos pormenores que ajudam a planear a viagem.
Lieber Marko, mit diesem Beitrag beendest du deine Frankreich-Serie auf wunderbare Weise. Vor einigen Jahren wohnten wir im Cheval Blanc St-Tropez, ausgesprochen exklusiv, aber doch sehr mondän und weit vom ruhigen Charakter entfernt, den wir heute suchen. Das Boscolo klingt nach dem Gegenteil, herzlich und mit echter italienischer Seele mitten in Nizza. Besonders schön finde ich, dass die Familie Boscolo bei jedem Detail an den Gast denkt, von den Pantoffeln bis zu den „Buona Notte”-Schachteln. Auch deine ehrliche Empfehlung, mindestens zwei oder drei Tage einzuplanen, leuchtet mir ein. Ich danke dir für diese ganze Reihe und freue mich schon auf… Read more »