Updated: Oct 27, 2021
Bonjour readers! Summer's about to kick off, and we're taking you to one of the most glamorous places in the world! It's suited on Cote D'Azur, in St Tropez, and we're going to uncover the incredible history of iconic hotel Epi 1959.
Golden-age glamour on the French Riviera never goes out of style. It's the epitome of French luxury, class, and magnificent views. The mystical coast has been among the most popular destinations since forever, and that's not only because you're bound to see a sea of A-listers. It's more about the serene views, hidden greeneries, mesmerizing sea, and outstanding hills.
One of the places that still manages to keep that cool retro yet elegant look is hotel Epi 1959. It's a perfect reflection of all you need for a laidback vacation, while you're enjoying some music by Gainsbourg and rocking your basket bag. It's effortless, yet tres chic and just as cool.
So, let's see what makes this hotel so unique!
There are countless hotels, but some are so special and almost unreal that they are practically a category unto themselves. Such is the case with the small Hotel Epi 1959 located in St. Tropez. It is a chic holiday destination with only ten rooms. However, the restaurant, tennis courts, and the pool area work on the principle of a private club and make Epi 1959 a place for the dreamers. If you envisage pure glamor from the mid-20th century, this is the place for you.
Epi 1959 lived its glory days during the 1960s, in the golden age of the Riviera. Then in 2018, it got a new life. Designer Monica Damonte is responsible for the turnaround, restoring the place to its former glory, following the thread of inspiration from old paintings that exude a free life and the carefreeness of past times. Damonte expertly mixed it all into an arrangement that will instantly awaken Brigitte Bardot in a retro yellow bikini.
The interior design of the rooms is straightforward in order not to disturb the distinctive spirit of the place. The furniture is made of rattan, the windows are colorful stained glass, and sofas and armchairs wear vintage textiles with a floral print.
Equal attention was paid to the courtyard as well as the pool environment. That part of the work was taken over by Madison Cox - the designer responsible for the Majorelle Garden in Marrakech.
And not only does everything looks like it's been kept in a time capsule, but Epi 1959 also tries to make all their guests enjoy the lively summer life as it was a few decades ago. They can schedule tennis at the reception or laze by one of the two pools until the time comes for lunch at an excellent restaurant.
After lunch and a glass of rose, it's time for a walk on the sandy beach of Pampelonne, and then a new tour of drinks before dinner with the sunset in the Mediterranean. It is a way of life that we would gladly indulge in.
As they say, the greatest joys of life are the simplest ones, and we have to agree! All it takes is a commercial flight to Paris, and a few hours after seeing the city of lights, you'll find yourself in the golden era of the famed Riviera. We'll leave you with the thought of this place that takes elegance and luxury to a new level.
Unlike Nice and Monaco, St Tropez is much more down to earth, yet it's one of those places you have to visit at least once. Preferably in some tres magnificent hotel, like Epi 1959!
