The Good Life France Magazine Winter 2016 | Page 58

Fun and relaxation are found in equal measure on the sandy private beach, small as it is, and along the private jetty. Swim-ming, sunbathing plus a variety of water sports are all indulged. And here we find another story, the Belles Rives Ski Nautique: one of the most prestigious waterskiing clubs in the world.

Just as the Fitzgerald legacy takes us back to a nostalgic time, so does this story of Léo Roman. In 1931, the off-duty ski instructor was inspired by the calm waters of Golfe-Juan to test a dynamic new sport. Visitors and locals were excited by the thrill of gliding across the bay. Today the club remains very active and open to all.

In the lobby, the artwork of ships on the wall and subtle furniture create the illusion of preparing for a voyage. There is a sense of being on an ocean liner during the grand days of transatlantic crossings. One enters the Michelin-starred dining room, La Passagère. The cuisine focuses on local seafood and superior desserts under the direction of some of the finest chefs in France.

Bold Temple of Luxor-style columns covered in marble mosaic create a dram-atic sense of structure. The geometric frescos on the walls were discovered when wall paper, applied after WW2, was stripped in 2001 to install air conditioning. They offer an effective backdrop to the stunning exhibit of ceramic and glass art created by local artisans that compliments the collection of 1930’s art.

An elaborate, stunning chandelier hangs over the table de commandant/captain’s table. Before one consults the menu, art is the main course here: substantial Leger-inspired sculptures frame the room, Egyptian sculptures, ceramique flamé in primary colors, la terre rouge, hand-painted Bernardaud porcelain plates with white background, la terre blanche, hand-blown glass from the skilled verriers of nearby Biot.

Credit Hotel Belles Rives