Fresh, timeless, unforgettable: The new Le Deck at Monte-Carlo Beach is an instant success

There is a feeling at the new Le Deck at Monte-Carlo Beach that nothing has changed — and yet everything has. The legendary poolside brasserie has been transformed for the 2025 season, not with grand statements, but with a quiet grace that makes it feel as though it has always belonged to the Riviera’s story.

French interior architect Dorothée Delaye, known for her ability to restore the soul of iconic places, led the redesign with a deep respect for history. “I love places that feel like they’ve always been there,” Delaye told Monaco Life. “We dug through the archives — there are some incredible photos — because Monte-Carlo Beach is an institution. We based the design on those vintage photos, from the Coco Chanel era and beyond, and looked for patterns and stories that fit that spirit.”

Photo credit: Yannick Labrousse.

The pool area itself has been woven into the same vision. Custom-designed sun loungers, tents crafted from natural materials, and mahogany accents blend effortlessly into the lush landscape.

“The only thing that remains the same is the layout of the spaces, which is quite faithful to the original,” explained Delaye. “It was important to maintain that idea — that the space feels like it’s always been there, even though everything has changed.”

Terrazzo floors handcrafted by artisans from Arles and vintage-inspired fabrics adapted for outdoor living complete the atmosphere, creating an elegant and relaxed oasis.

Photo credit: Yannick Labrousse.

Families and friends gathering at Le Deck will also find new spaces that speak to the convivial spirit of the Riviera. Rounded tables for sharing, soft banquettes, and cozy lounge corners for an apéritif by the pool have been thoughtfully introduced.

“You see families here, people of all ages, and it’s important to connect with the younger generations too,” said Delaye. “Children come to learn to swim in the pool; generations of Monegasques have grown up in this place.”

Photo credit: Yannick Labrousse.

Since reopening in early April, the newly revamped Le Deck has already reclaimed its place as a vibrant social hub. During a recent lunch under Monaco’s brilliant spring sun, I watched as tables filled with ISM children and their mothers enjoying a relaxed meal, business professionals deep in conversation, older couples reconnecting, and young tourists soaking up the Monaco atmosphere.

The design team, together with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, set out to breathe new life into this nearly century-old Monegasque institution — and by every measure, they have succeeded.

Photo credit: Yannick Labrousse.

Food, naturally, remains central to the Le Deck experience. The brasserie’s Mediterranean menu celebrates seasonal ingredients and the art of sharing, featuring oysters, Breton lobster, sea bass, red mullet, and daily catches, served simply yet elegantly.

“You want people to feel good, to dress up a little, to enjoy themselves — a hedonistic, welcoming atmosphere without being pretentious,” said Delaye.

As Monte-Carlo Beach moves towards its centenary celebrations in 2029, the new Le Deck captures something timeless: the golden spirit of the Riviera, reimagined for today, where history, hospitality and heart come together under the Monaco sun.

Photo credit: Yannick Labrousse.

Beyond Le Deck, the Monte-Carlo Beach is entering a dynamic new chapter under the leadership of General Manager René Blino, who took the helm in January 2024. In addition to the new look at the brasserie, the resort is expanding its spirit of a private seaside club by adding new activities, including padel courts, pétanque, yoga, Pilates, and private coaching sessions, designed to appeal to all generations.

🎥 Watch Cassandra Tanti’s full video reel for an inside look at this new chapter in the story of a Monaco icon…


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Main photo: Dorothée Delaye, credit: Yannick Labrousse. 

Prince Albert inaugurates 40th anniversary exhibition at Stade Louis II

Prince Albert II of Monaco officially opened a new public exhibition at Stade Louis II on Thursday 25th April, unveiling the second phase of celebrations marking the stadium’s 40th anniversary. Titled Il était une première fois (“It was a first time”), the retrospective brings to life four decades of sporting and cultural moments that have shaped the venue’s legacy.

Accompanied by Acting Minister of State Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, the Prince explored the newly renovated pedestrian gallery inside the stadium, which has been transformed over the past five weeks to house the large-scale exhibition. Exhibition Commissioner Gérard Holtz guided the tour, sharing anecdotes from the stadium’s rich past, which was first inaugurated on 25th January 1985.

Following the initial ceremony held earlier this year on 4th February that focused on the construction and opening of the stadium, this second phase shifts the spotlight to the athletes, fans, and key moments that have brought the venue to life. Fourteen custom-built display cases feature jerseys, equipment, and personal memorabilia from events spanning football, athletics, judo, and more.

The exhibition is designed to take visitors on a reverse chronological journey, travelling from 2025 back to 1985. Among the highlights are press clippings from the 1991 international athletics meet, which featured legendary athletes such as Carl Lewis. The visual timeline also includes memories of concerts, national medal ceremonies, and milestone sporting achievements, all marked with bold red arrows and date-stamped commentary along the route.

“Whatever your age, as you walk through and travel back in time, there’s something that will move you or spark a memory,” said Gérard Holtz. “It’s lively, colourful, full of contrast. Just speaking about it gives me goosebumps—we’re entering into history: the history of sport, of Stade Louis II, and of Monaco.”

The exhibition will remain open to the public until 31st October, with a possible extension through to the end of the year. According to curator Sylvie Bertrand, the display cases themselves are designed for future use and may eventually be available for hire.

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Photo credit: Stephane Danna, Government Communication Department

Monte-Carlo Fashion Week celebrates successful 13th edition

The Monte-Carlo Fashion Week (MCFW) drew to a successful close after transforming Monaco into a hub of global fashion innovation from 22nd to 26th April. The five-day event delivered a packed program of runway shows, designer presentations, and industry discussions centred on sustainability, inclusiveness, and the future of fashion.

‘’Fashion has the power to inspire and change the world,” said Federica Nardoni Spinetta, President and Founder of the Chambre Monégasque de la Mode and Monte-Carlo Fashion Week. “We are proud to promote creativity and innovation by showcasing the new generation of designers who look to the future of fashion in a sustainable and inclusive way.’’

The event opened at Monaco’s City Hall with Elisabetta Franchi presenting her Eternal collection, celebrating Italian craftsmanship and timeless beauty. Activities then transitioned to the Yacht Club de Monaco, where Roberto Cavalli showcased its Couture collection in a worldwide avant-premiere before an exclusive audience of VIPs and industry figures.

Photo provided

A standout moment was the MCFW Fashion Awards Ceremony, marking its 10th anniversary with support from luxury perfume house Xerjoff. Hosted by Radio Monte Carlo Maurizio Di Maggio and Martika Caringella, the ceremony honoured several key figures of the industry making significant contributions to fashion’s evolution.  

Renzo Rosso, founder of Diesel and Chairman of OTB, received the Positive Change Award for pioneering sustainability initiatives. His work has been instrumental in promoting a more responsible fashion system through innovative business practices. Arianna Alessi, Vice President of OTB Foundation, was presented with the Positive Social Impact Award for her humanitarian efforts. Under her leadership, the foundation has supported over 380 initiatives since 2006, impacting approximately 380,000 people worldwide through projects focused on children and youth, women’s empowerment, social integration, and humanitarian emergencies.

Actress Kelly Rutherford was honoured with the Fashion Icon Award, while Monaco’s Pavilion Bosio received the Made in Monaco—Educational Award.  

Designers showcase global creativity 

The Yacht Club de Monaco was transformed into a vibrant showcase of creativity as Monegasque designers and international brands displayed their collections. Elegant Collini Milano 1937 captivated attendees, while the refined Special Collection Yacht Club de Monaco demonstrated sophisticated style. Beach & Cashmere Monaco’s energetic ‘Rock the 20 Years’ celebratory show drew enthusiastic responses from the audience. 

The runway featured an impressive lineup of international talent including Mediterranean designer Isabel Fragnoli, futuristic brand Valtoria, visionary label Kalfar, and exotic Abiddikkia. Also showcasing their collection were Mami Okano, Marlea Monte-Carlo, Leslie Monte-Carlo, Laura Spreti, and Diana Mara—each bringing unique perspectives on sustainable fashion and innovative design.

Beyond the runway presentations, the week featured several special events. Renzo Rosso and Arianna Alessi participated in a conference with Geneviève Berti, Director of Communications of the Principality, discussing the future of fashion and sustainable practices. 

Students from Monaco’s École Supérieure d’Arts Plastiques – Pavillon Bosio collaborated with Florence’s Polimoda to present ‘Glad you’re awake’, an innovative show blending traditional runway formats with performance art. The ‘Fashion meets Design’ event at Spazio Italiano featured Deglupta Bags craftsmanship alongside Yasya Minochkina’s glamorous dresses.

Additional highlights included Narek Sirakanyan’s presentation of French luxury nutraceutical brand Project V and the concluding Zepter Brunch Cooking Show & Hyperlight Optics Presentation with a talk by Ingie Chalhoub.

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Global youth leadership in focus as JCI world president visits Monaco

Monaco welcomed Keisuke Shimoyamada, President of Junior Chamber International (JCI) for 2025, on Monday 28th April as part of celebrations for the organisation’s 110th anniversary.

Pierre-André Chiappori, Minister of Finance and Economy, received Shimoyamada at the Ministry offices, joined by members of the Jeune Chambre Économique de Monaco (JCEM), the local branch of the global youth leadership network. The meeting shone a spotlight on Monaco’s growing role in fostering innovation, entrepreneurship and international cooperation among young leaders.

JCI, with more than 150,000 members across 120 countries, champions projects focused on entrepreneurship, economic development, international collaboration and community impact. It works closely with major institutions including the United Nations and the International Chamber of Commerce, and leads initiatives such as the Universal Declaration of Human Duties, JCI in Business, and the Creative Young Entrepreneur competition — an idea that originated in Monaco.

During the meeting, Pierre-André Chiappori praised the drive of young entrepreneurs as a vital force shaping the Principality’s future, said the goverment in a press statement. He spoke about the importance of international networking in strengthening economic and social ties, positioning Monaco as a key supporter of global leadership initiatives.

Shimoyamada’s visit highlights the close links between Monaco and the global JCI network, and the Principality’s continued investment in the next generation of changemakers.

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Photo source: Manuel Vitale, Government Communication Department

 

Padel Best Village brings sport and business together at Grimaldi Forum in Monaco

The third edition of Padel Best Village concluded at the Grimaldi Forum on 28th April, with two days of tournaments, networking sessions and panel discussions bringing together athletes, business leaders and officials from across Europe.

Organised by Italian company BSG SRL under the patronage of the Italian Embassy in Monaco, the event attracted hundreds of participants and spectators. It combined competitive padel matches with business forums addressing themes such as innovation in sport, sponsorship opportunities, digital marketing and investment in one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.

Photo source: Padel Best Village

Among the highlights was the Givova Five Padel Cup, which drew international media attention. Former Italian footballers Vincent Candela and Gigi Di Biagio won the VIP Man tournament, demonstrating strong teamwork and drawing large crowds.

The event concluded with a gala evening at Twiga Monte-Carlo. A charity raffle in support of Fight Aids Monaco, the association backed by Princess Stephanie of Monaco, was held, with prizes donated by sponsors and partners helping to raise funds for the cause.

Photo source: Pixel Media

Padel Best CEO Roberta Ceccarelli thanked participants, sponsors and partners, describing the event as a moment of “enthusiasm, passion and solidarity”. Stage hosts Dario Marcolin and Jimmy Ghione also praised the event’s growing role as a key fixture in the international padel calendar.

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Main photo source: Padel Best Village

 

Monaco prepares for 2025 E-Prix and Grand Prix with major traffic changes

The Principality is set for a thrilling month of motorsport this May with the 8th and 9th Monaco E-Prix and the 82nd Formula 1 TAG Heuer Grand Prix de Monaco, but residents and visitors should be aware of significant adjustments to traffic, parking, and pedestrian access throughout the city.

Monaco will host two major automotive events this May, beginning with the 8th and 9th editions of the Monaco E-Prix on 3rd and 4th May, followed by the 82nd Formula 1 TAG Heuer Grand Prix from 22nd to 25th May. In preparation, widespread changes to road access and public transport will be implemented across the Principality.

During race weekends, key roads including Quai des États-Unis, Route de la Piscine, Appontement Jules Soccal and Darse Sud will be closed to vehicles. Additional closures will affect areas such as Boulevard Albert Ier, Place du Casino, Avenue des Citronniers and Avenue Princesse Grace. Certain streets, such as Rue Princesse Florestine and Avenue du Port, will experience reversed traffic flow, while a temporary two-way system will be introduced on Rue Grimaldi. Two major tunnels, Rocher Albert Ier and Rocher Noghès, will also be closed at times. Pedestrian access will be restricted in several areas to those with official tickets or passes, including along the Port and around key viewing points.

Parking will be severely limited throughout the city, particularly from 30th April to 4th May and again from 22nd to 25th May. Several streets, including Avenue de la Madone, Rue Princesse Florestine and Boulevard Albert Ier, will have parking bans in place. Electric vehicle charging stations operated by Monaco ON will also be neutralised at different points in May, notably on Avenue de la Madone, Rue Grimaldi and Quai des États-Unis.

Public transport will see major deviations, with the Compagnie des Autobus de Monaco (CAM) adjusting several of its urban bus routes during the events. Full details for the E-Prix period are already available via the CAM website, with further updates for the Grand Prix expected closer to the event.

To help manage travel during the races, real-time traffic updates will be available via Waze for both the E-Prix and the Grand Prix.

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Photo source: Government Communication Department