QUINTESSENTIALLY | Insider | cars

Monaco has long been regarded as a playground of the rich and famous, a special place where glamour and super-charged thrills meet head on. Boasting princes and princesses, rock legends and movies stars, sporting heroes and business tycoons, Monte Carlo is the beating heart of the Riviera Principality.

The Monaco Grand Prix, a premier highlight of Europe’s social calendar, is fast approaching and attracting in its wake the finest yachts, fastest cars and the glitziest of celebrities, all eager to be part of the extraordinary atmosphere. The roar of F1 engines; the lavish parties that go on until dawn; the luxury and splendour of the world’s finest hotels – who could resist the spell of Monte Carlo?

Rising above the dazzlings lights and sweet noise of the promenade stands the elegant and chic Hotel Metropole. This beautiful setting welcomes the most prestigious of Monaco’s guests; the hotel’s opulent atrium with its elegant glass dome sets the tone and each suite has been perfectly redesigned to retain its traditional feel with an added touch of the modern. For the ultimate racing weekend, go for the Azur suite; here, hedonistic bliss awaits, and you will also be at pole position for spectacular views of the race, the suite being located right above the Grand Prix circuit!

You might also want to sample some of the stunning fare. The Yoshi Restaurant was recently awarded its first star in France’s coveted 2010 Michelin Guide and offers an exquisite blend of classic and innovative dishes enhanced by nuanced flavours and fresh produce from Japan.

Without question, the ambience and contemporary feel of the ethereal Hotel Metropole make for the most unforgettable and scintillating F1 experience – an experience you just can’t afford to miss.

For more information, please see www.metropole.com.