Hotel Belvédère du Rayon Vert, Art Deco hotel in Cerbère, France
Hotel Belvédère du Rayon Vert is a building on the French Mediterranean coast designed to resemble a ship. With its curved concrete forms, large windows, and projecting decks, it resembles a vessel moored at the shoreline looking out toward the water.
Architect Léon Baille designed this establishment between 1928 and 1932 for wealthy European travelers. It emerged during an era when rail connections to Spain were expanding and coastal towns were becoming fashionable resort destinations.
The name references a rare optical effect sometimes visible at sea on clear days, connecting this place to natural phenomena. The building was conceived as a destination where guests could experience both luxury and the Mediterranean landscape as integrated parts of their stay.
The building can be explored during guided tours that showcase the art deco staircase, reception area, and former ballroom. The tours provide insight into how the interior spaces were arranged and finished in the streamline moderne style.
The roof originally featured a tennis court where guests could play while overlooking the sea. Today, the suites function as vacation apartments available for weekly rental by visitors and holiday seekers.
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