Cap-Martin's understated glamor is exemplified by the Hotel Victoria. Both rooms and public spaces have been newly styled in homage to local artistic greats Le Corbusier, Pablo Picasso, and Eileen Gray. Modern interiors, which feature giant showers and funky rugs, are a designer dream. Half look out to sea; half overlook the leafy peninsula. All are a 60-second stroll to the pebbly public beach. Sip a 'Rio' house cocktail (a blend of cachaça, banana syrup, and coconut) on the sunny seaside terrace and raise a toast to the hotel's Anglo-Brazilian owners. The establishment also serves as an inexpensive base from which to visit Monaco, which is a 5-minute drive (or 1-hour walk for hardcore hikers) away.
- Frommer's Staff