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Month: April 2025

Carlo app backs 662-kilometre Monaco Liver Disorder cycling challenge

by: Stephanie Horsman
16/04/2025

In a display of community spirit and athletic endurance, Monaco-based payment app Carlo has partnered with the charity Monaco Liver Disorder (MLD) to raise awareness and funds for children suffering from rare liver diseases. The initiative centres around an ambitious ultra-long distance cycling challenge being undertaken by one intrepid rider, Philippe Choquet, who will be covering 662 kilometres from Monaco to Andorra in just 36 hours. 

On 30th May, 54-year-old avid cyclist Philippe Choquet, who works in the Principality, will set out from the place of Monaco’s Prince’s Palace at 10am on a daunting solo bicycle journey. His goal is to cover the 662 kilometres to Andorra in 36 hours. Along the way, he’ll climb a cumulative 7,270 meters in elevation, finishing at the Col d’Envalira, the highest paved mountain pass in the Pyrenees, which sits at 2,408 metres above sea level.

A seasoned bike rider, Choquet has been training rigorously each month in preparation, typically logging 1,200 kilometres in distance and over 10,000 meters of elevation gain. His usual rides cover an astounding 200 kilometres per session. 

This demanding journey isn’t just a test of physical limits, though, it’s a ride prompted by purpose. As Choquet pushes through inevitable fatigue and tough terrain, he’ll be working toward a worthy cause, that of the children suffering from rare liver diseases. The ride, supported by local charity, Monaco Liver Disease (MLD) and Monaco’s Carlo app, is a labour of love as much as of personal bests. 

Carlo, the popular Monegasque app founded in 2019, is known for promoting local commerce by offering users 5% cashback on purchases made at over 670 partner businesses. In addition to supporting local stores, Carlo has taken steps to become a hub for social impact by enabling donations to more than two dozen local charities. This latest initiative with MLD marks a significant step in its mission to fuse technology, community, and solidarity.

MLD, founded by Carla Fadoul Shechter, works to ease the emotional and physical toll of hospitalisation on children with liver conditions. By transforming sterile hospital environments into spaces filled with warmth, colour, and comfort, MLD helps make medical care more humane and dignified for young patients and their families.

To support this exceptionally worthwhile cause, users can now donate to MLD directly through the Carlo app by clicking here  https://carloapp.com/en/  

Monaco Life is produced by a team of real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Celebrate a cause: COCC’s Saint-Tropez to Monaco ride returns with epic after-party at Slammers

by: Cassandra Tanti
16/04/2025

The 11th edition of the Champagne and Oysters Cycle Club (COCC) ride from Saint-Tropez to Monaco is set for Sunday, 27th April, bringing together cyclists, celebrities, and philanthropists for a day of fundraising, sport and celebration – capped off by a lively open-air after-party in the heart of the Principality.

This annual event, which has raised around €100,000 each year, supports two notable charities: the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, which champions water safety and drowning prevention initiatives around the world, and the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, a UK-based organisation funding research into motor neuron disease.

Cyclists will depart from Saint-Tropez at 8am, arriving in Monaco in the late afternoon. The day’s efforts will culminate in the COCC Street Party, an open-invitation celebration held outside Slammers Pub from 2pm until late. With a BBQ by Chilli No. 5, live music from Caligagan, Blah Blah, and Paul Dobie, and plenty of refreshments, the after-party promises to be a festive close to the charitable ride.

Tickets to the COCC Street Party are available now for €25 at Slammers Bar, or €35 on the day. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to soak up the atmosphere and support the fundraising effort, which continues into the evening.

Sponsorship opportunities are still open, with organisers calling on Monaco-based businesses to contribute. Interested parties can register via the official COCC website or by contacting the team at info@coccmonaco.com.

To date, the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation has reached over one million people through water safety programmes in more than 43 countries. The My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, named after Scottish rugby legend Doddie Weir, has become a leading force in the global campaign against motor neuron disease.

For those looking to support a meaningful cause while enjoying one of Monaco’s most spirited springtime traditions, the COCC ride and its vibrant after-party offer the perfect opportunity.

See also:

Photos: Princess Charlene celebrates 10th anniversary with COCC

Monaco Life is produced by a team of real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.   

Main photo of Princess Charlene at the 2024 COCC credit Manuel Vitali, Government Communication Department

Wehrlein inherits Miami E-Prix win as Maserati MSG Racing eyes home redemption in Monaco

by: Cassandra Tanti
15/04/2025

A chaotic conclusion to the 2025 Miami E-Prix handed Pascal Wehrlein a dramatic victory for Porsche, as Maserati MSG Racing endured a weekend of what-could-have-beens ahead of a highly anticipated double-header on home turf in Monaco.

The penultimate lap of the Miami E-Prix saw the race turned on its head following a red flag incident that thwarted several drivers’ final Attack Mode activations. While Nissan’s Norman Nato crossed the line first, a post-race penalty for not deploying his final 50kW power boost handed the win to Wehrlein, who had brilliantly timed his strategy and overtaken teammate Antonio Felix da Costa before the stoppage.

Wehrlein’s promotion to first place netted TAG Heuer Porsche a double podium, with da Costa finishing third behind Lucas di Grassi, who delivered Lola Yamaha ABT’s maiden podium in Formula E after a composed and opportunistic drive. Behind them, Nico Mueller stormed through the field from 18th to fourth, while Mahindra’s Edoardo Mortara capped another strong outing with fifth.

For Maserati MSG Racing, the weekend was marked by promise and frustration. Stoffel Vandoorne once again demonstrated strong qualifying pace, lining up sixth after narrowly missing out in the Duels. In the race, an aggressive early strategy brought him up to third place, but the timing of the red flag meant his second Attack Mode was largely wasted. He ultimately finished just outside the points.

Jake Hughes, starting further back, looked set for a sensational comeback after expertly executing an energy-saving strategy that left him in a prime position to climb into the top four in the closing laps. However, a multi-car collision involving Max Guenther and Mitch Evans forced his retirement and triggered the red flag that changed the complexion of the race.

Despite leaving Miami without points, Maserati MSG Racing remain optimistic. “We were looking good with both cars to score well,” said Team Principal Cyril Blais. “It didn’t go our way, but we’ve taken a lot from this weekend that will help us in Monaco.”

That home race is now firmly in focus. Taking place on the 3rd and 4th May, the Monaco E-Prix will, for the first time, feature a double-header, offering Maserati a significant opportunity to shine in front of local fans and partners on the iconic streets of Monte Carlo.

TAG Heuer Porsche now leads the Teams’ Championship with 105 points, ahead of Nissan on 79. Wehrlein moves to third in the Drivers’ standings, trailing Da Costa and Oliver Rowland. But with Monaco next, all eyes turn to the Principality — and for Maserati MSG Racing, the stage could not be more perfectly set.

Monaco Life is produced by a team of real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

Photos of Maserati MSG Racing supplied

Music without borders: Vence’s Nuits du Sud festival announces bold and eclectic line-up

by: Elsa Carpenter
15/04/2025

From reggae and funk to hip-hop and electronic fusion, the 2025 edition of Vence’s Nuits du Sud festival in the open-air Place du Grand Jardin promises a vibrant musical journey that celebrates global sounds, cultural diversity and artistic energy under the stars this July.

This summer, the charming town of Vence in the Alpes-Maritimes will come alive with an exhilarating blend of global rhythms and contemporary acts as the ever-popular Nuits du Sud festival returns to the Place du Grand Jardin from 10th to 19th July.

This much-loved festival, known for its inclusive and energetic programme, truly offers something for everyone, encompassing genres from Afrobeat, reggae, funk and soul to hip-hop and electro.

The event, now in its 27th year, is one of the Côte d’Azur’s most distinctive musical celebrations and enjoys a strong following from both the local community and visitors. It’s a family-friendly affair too, with under-12s enjoying free entry.

This year’s line-up is a showcase of the festival’s trademark diversity. Among the headliners are legendary reggae acts The Gladiators and The Congos, both appearing on 11th July, and IAM, the pioneers of French rap, who will take to the stage on 12th July. The smooth Faada Freddy will perform on 17th July, ahead of Chinese Man on 18th July, and PPJ and The Avener on 19th July.

Beyond the main stage, Nuits du Sud will continue its support for emerging artists with the Talents Nuits du Sud contest, offering young musicians a chance to perform in a professional setting.

With affordable tickets starting at €22 for early bird sales – full festival passes are available for €170 – and children under 12 attending for free, the festival remains accessible for all ages.

For tickets and full programme details, click here.

Read related:

Benson Boone and Billy Idol lead blockbuster line-up for Monte-Carlo Summer Festival 2025

Monaco Life is produced by a team of real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Photo source: The Avener, Facebook

Marius: the taste of Provence, the spirit of Monaco

by: Cassandra Tanti
15/04/2025

With its warm Mediterranean charm, refined yet generous dishes, and laid-back sophistication, Marius has quietly but confidently established itself as one of Monaco’s most magnetic dining destinations.

Step inside Marius and you’re struck by it’s warmth — the kind that unfolds from soft lighting, honey-toned wood, and the gentle hum of conversation rising from tables filled with beautifully plated dishes. There’s a soul here, rooted in the Mediterranean, reminiscent of its past, and with flavours that conjure up sun-drenched terraces, coastal feasts, and the convivial rhythm of a Provençal summer.

At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Sébastien Sanjou, a two-Michelin-starred talent whose vision is simple: to make the food of Provence not only delicious, but joyful, generous, and accessible. He succeeds with ease.

Pâté Lorraine served tableside, photo by Monaco Life

Meals begin with a thoughtful amuse-bouche — a complimentary Pâté Lorraine served tableside with homemade pickles and freshly baked bread — a welcoming gesture that instantly set the tone.

Unsurprisingly, the menu leans towards the sea, with modern, flavourful interpretations of Mediterranean classics that reflect the restaurant’s waterside location. Generous sharing dishes add to the sense of conviviality, with slow-cooked lamb shoulder, ember-grilled prime rib of beef, and an exquisitely delicate bouillabaisse arriving as showstopping centrepieces. Each plate blends rustic tradition with refined flair, designed not just to be enjoyed, but to inspire conversation. Marius is, at its heart, a celebration of togetherness.

Desserts at Marius are a refined tribute to the Mediterranean, with standouts like frozen lemon with basil, raspberry clafoutis, and a classic strawberry charlotte. Profiteroles for two and a rich rum baba add indulgence, while fresh red berries with whipped cream offer a lighter touch. It’s the kind of place that invites you to linger, to stretch the evening longer than planned.

And linger, people do. On second Saturdays, live music flows through the space — trios and duos bringing warmth and soul, the kind that encourages one more glass, one more song.

Weeknights invite another kind of rhythm, with happy hour offerings that fill the bar with after-work locals and friends who never quite leave on time. Come race weekend, the Formula One Grand Prix plays live on screen and the restaurant becomes a private grandstand, complete with rosé in hand and cheers echoing through the room.

General Manager Raphaël Rouget and Chef Sébastien Sanjou

There’s something rare about Marius in the context of Monaco. Where some venues lean into formality or flash, Marius balances elegance with ease. The atmosphere is stylish but never cold, contemporary without sacrificing charm. The mirrored ceilings bounce warm light, the wood-lined interiors feel more contemporary London than glitzy lounge, and the crowd — chic but unpretentious — feels right at home.

It’s a space designed not just to impress, but to gather. As General Manager Raphaël Rouget says, “We don’t want people to dine and dash. We want them to stay. To feel at home. To be part of it.”

Cocktails are thoughtful and bold, crafted to enjoy either before dinner or as a standalone reason to visit. And with a weekday lunch menu starting at €29 for two courses, there’s an unexpected accessibility to the experience — a welcome surprise in a city known for extravagance.

The restaurant’s soul may be new, but its spirit is rooted in legacy. Marius stands where Stars’n’Bars once did — a venue beloved not just for its menu, but for the community it nurtured under the late Kate Powers. Co-founder Didier Rubiolo, alongside Marc Dussoullier, has reimagined the space with reverence and creativity, not recreating what came before, but evolving it. Marius doesn’t just honour the past. It carries it forward — with style, grace and open arms.

As if you needed another reason to reserve your table—guests are treated to a complimentary pick-up and drop-off in one of Marius’ vintage treasures. Imagine it: a gleaming 1962 Bentley convertible cruising through Casino Square, night air swirling, and the magic of Monaco all around you. Pure Riviera elegance.

See more of our Marius experience in the video below…

Monaco Life is produced by a team of real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.   

Everything you need to know about the Stade Nautique’s 2025 reopening

by: Niki Borisova
15/04/2025

The iconic Stade Nautique Rainier III in Port Hercule is set to make a splash this May as it reopens for a new season of outdoor swimming, diving and sun-soaked activities in the heart of Monaco.

The Mairie de Monaco has confirmed that the open-air facility on the Route de la Piscine will be welcoming the public back from 6th May. The lido will be open throughout the summer and early autumn months, with a scheduled closing on 8th October.

The Port Hercule pool, famous for its stunning views of the mountains to the north of Monaco and its vistas of the superyachts in the marina, features a 50m x 20m seawater pool heated to 27°C, diving platforms at 1m, 3m and 5m, and a 45m-long toboggan slide.

From 6th May to 30th June and from 8th September to 8th October, the Stade Nautique Rainier III will be open from 9am to 5.40pm, except on Wednesdays, when it opens early at 7am. During the summer holiday hours, from 1st July to 7th September, the pool will be open until 7.10pm most days.

The slide and diving boards will be open from 9am to 6pm during the summer. Due to a number of scheduled diving introduction events, the slide will be off-limits on certain days: 25th June, 16th July, 6th August and 27th August.

Outside the summer holiday period, from 8th September to 8th October, the toboggan and diving boards will only be available on Wednesdays and weekends, with standard afternoon time slots: 2pm to 4pm for the diving platforms, and 9am to 6pm for the slide.

The pool will close during the week of the Monaco Grand Prix, from 19th to 26th May, and for the Principality’s popular youth Splash Party on 18th June.

The Stade Nautique Rainier III complex is overseen by certified lifeguards, and minors under 12 are not permitted in the pool unless accompanied by an adult.

Admission fees vary depending on residency, age and employment status. Monaco residents pay €6 per adult and €4.50 for youth (ages three to 17), while non-residents pay double. Entry remains free for seniors aged over 60 and children under three. Multi-entry cards and time-based passes are also available, along with rentals for loungers and parasols. Activities like aquabike, aquagym and aquatic circuits will also resume as part of the summer offering.

For more information, click here.

Read related:

Mini-Club at Larvotto reopens for summer with registration starting mid-April

 

Monaco Life is produced by a team of real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Photo source: Mairie de Monaco