Ancien hôtel Bristol de Beaulieu, Protected historical monument in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, France
The Ancien hôtel Bristol is a six-story building with tall roofs resembling an English castle that stands out along the Mediterranean coast of Beaulieu-sur-Mer. The structure combines European architectural style with a richly decorated interior layout that once accommodated hundreds of guest rooms and grand public spaces.
The hotel was commissioned in 1898 by English furniture manufacturer John Blundell Maple, who hired a distinguished Danish architect to design it. It quickly became a favored destination for wealthy European travelers but was later transformed and converted into a residential property.
The name reflects its role as a fashionable retreat on the French Riviera where wealthy visitors gathered for leisure and socializing. The preserved interiors still showcase the refined taste and elegance that attracted European travelers seeking comfort and style.
The building is located on Rue du Lieutenant Colonelli and is visible from the street, with architectural details observable from outside. Keep in mind that the property is now privately owned and not open for interior visits, but the exterior appearance and facade history can be appreciated from public spaces nearby.
The original hotel featured an innovative heating system that warmed seawater and provided hot baths drawn directly from the Mediterranean. This technological feature from the late 19th century was a mark of wealth and modern comfort available only to the richest guests.
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