TRAVEL | Monte-Carlo SBM: Monaco's Esteemed Hotel Celebrates 150 Years

TRAVEL | Monaco's Calendar Packed with Glamorous Events

Monte-Carlo SBM, Monaco's Esteemed Hotel Group, Celebrates 150 Years

In the Principality of Monaco, renowned as a luxurious resort destination, the Monte-Carlo SBM, the oldest and most prestigious hotel group, has reached its 150th anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, a festival called 'Fête des Sens,' bringing together all senses, was held in early July, captivating attendees with a concert by Rod Stewart and special dinners.

Text by YANAKA Tomomi

A Special Dinner Inspired by Manet's Masterpiece

The history of Monte-Carlo SBM begins 150 years ago in 1863 with the founding of its predecessor, the Société des Bains de Mer, by François Blanc. At the request of Charles III, the Prince of Monaco at the time, François Blanc undertook the development of the area. This led to the construction of a casino, hotels, and restaurants that served as social hubs, along with thalassotherapy facilities leveraging the seaside location, marking the world's first successful integrated resort development.

For 150 years, Monte-Carlo has enchanted numerous guests with its luxury tourism. To celebrate its anniversary year, a variety of events are being held throughout the year. Special menus at restaurants and commemorative cocktails are being introduced, alongside the release of a concept book that chronicles dreams related to art, architecture, music, and film, featuring snapshots of celebrities who have visited Monte-Carlo.

The climax of these celebrations was the 'Fête des Sens' festival held on July 5th and 6th. World-renowned chef Alain Ducasse and Monte-Carlo's chefs created a special dinner themed around Manet's masterpiece 'Luncheon on the Grass,' painted in 1863, the hotel's founding year. The Casino Square was transformed into a pastoral landscape of lawns and vineyards by garden designer Jean Mus, hosting an elegant picnic.

Following this, the Opéra Garnier hosted a special concert featuring the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra, the prodigiously talented pianist Lang Lang, Shirley Bassey, and Jamie Cullum, known for his fusion of jazz and pop music.

The following day, July 6th, featured a concert by legendary rock star Rod Stewart, celebrating both the opening of Monaco's summer tradition, the Monte-Carlo Sporting Summer Festival, and the hotel's new beginning.

Monte-Carlo continues to offer a dazzling array of uniquely Monégasque events, including the opportunity to enjoy 150 Grand Cru Bordeaux wines by the glass from the esteemed wine cellar at the Hôtel de Paris, known as one of the world's finest. Until July 31st (Wednesday), a campaign called 'Experience Celebrity in Monaco' is also underway, offering a trip to Monaco for one pair of two people to commemorate the launch of the Japanese website. This is also worth checking out.

Experience Celebrity in Monaco
http://contest.montecarlosbm.com/en/dream-stay-in-monte-carlo

Monte-Carlo SBM Official Website
http://jp.montecarlosbm.com/

Inquiries
Monte-Carlo SBM Japan Office
Tel. 03-5413-7046