Dutch star Femke Bol will return to Monaco this summer to compete in the 400m hurdles at the Herculis EBS meeting, one of the marquee fixtures on the global athletics calendar.
Organisers confirmed that the European record holder and reigning world and European champion will be on the start list for the 11th July event at Stade Louis II. Bol, who has won four Olympic medals and remains unbeaten in Diamond League competition since 2021, will aim to extend her winning streak in the Principality.
This will not be Bol’s first appearance in Monaco. She previously raced at the venue in 2020, placing third in the 400m flat with a time of 51.57 seconds. Since then, her career has soared, with major championship titles and a string of high-profile victories establishing her as one of the sport’s standout figures.
“I’m looking forward to racing in Monaco again – it’s always an amazing meeting,” said Bol in a statement. “I’ve trained well this year and this is one of the few meetings I haven’t yet won. I hope to deliver a strong race and enjoy the atmosphere.”
The Herculis EBS meeting, named the best athletics meeting in the world on seven occasions, will feature a full programme of men’s and women’s track and field events. Tickets are available from €15 via herculis.com.
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Photo by Monaco Life
Floriane Grand wins Gault & Millau Pastry Chef Trophy for PACA-Corsica-Monaco region
Floriane Grand, Pastry Chef at the Blue Bay Marcel Ravin and Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, has been awarded the Pastry Chef Trophy 2025 by Gault & Millau for the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Corsica and Monaco region. She was the only chef from Monaco to receive a distinction during the ceremony, held on Monday 28th April at the Palais de la Méditerranée in Nice.
The award comes just a month after Grand was honoured with the Michelin Guide’s Passion Dessert title, cementing her status as one of the rising stars of Monaco’s haute gastronomy scene. Her recognition is also a testament to the strength of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, which continues to position itself as a leader in fine dining.
Each year, the Gault & Millau Tour travels across France’s regions to uncover new talents in gastronomy and hospitality, awarding twelve trophies across different disciplines. This year, Floriane Grand stood out in the PACA-Corsica-Monaco region for her work at the two Michelin-starred Blue Bay Marcel Ravin**, as well as at Las Brisas, L’Orange Verte and the Espace Calypso.
Desserts by Florian Grand, photo credit: MCSBM
Originally from Lyon, Grand built her career through prestigious competitions, including the Meilleur Apprenti de France and the Junior Pastry World Cup. After working at Maison Fauchon and the K2 Palace in Courchevel, she moved to Monaco in 2019 to join Chef Marcel Ravin. She was promoted to Head Pastry Chef the following year, bringing a distinctive style to her creations, inspired by gardens, herbs and the changing seasons.
“This trophy is a huge source of pride. It recognises the work achieved at Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort alongside my Chef, Marcel Ravin,” said Grand. “I thank the pastry, kitchen and service teams for their daily efforts, and Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer for the opportunity to grow the Blue Bay Marcel Ravin**.”
Chef Marcel Ravin said the award reflected a “culmination of a team effort” spanning almost seven years, adding that it was a source of pride for the entire establishment and for the Monte-Carlo destination as a whole.
The Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer group continues to make its mark in the Gault & Millau guide. The Blue Bay Marcel Ravin**, Le Grill* and Pavyllon Monte-Carlo* each hold three toques; L’Abysse Monte-Carlo** holds four; Elsa* has two; and the Louis XV-Alain Ducasse at Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo***, a member of the Gault & Millau Academy, has been awarded five gold toques.
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Main photo source: MCSBM
A floral art workshop for children to celebrate Mother’s Day in Monaco
A creative and colourful experience awaits children at Parc Princesse Antoinette on Sunday 18th May, where a special Mother’s Day card-making workshop will be held at the A Fàbrica space. Designed for young artists aged six to 12, the event invites children to craft heartfelt gifts using a unique Japanese technique.
The Atelier carterie pour la Fête des Mères offers four one-hour sessions at 10am, 11am, 2pm and 3pm. During these sessions, participants will make cards and bookmarks using floral imprints inspired by Tataki Zomé, an ancient Japanese art form that transfers the natural pigments of flowers onto paper or fabric by gently hammering them.
This free workshop provides a creative and meaningful way for children to honour their mothers while learning about an artistic tradition that blends nature and design. Guided by instructors, the children will explore how the delicate patterns and colours of plants can be transformed into personalised works of art.
Hosted in the welcoming environment of A Fàbrica, located at the upper entrance of Parc Princesse Antoinette, the event is free to attend but requires prior registration. Parents are encouraged to reserve a spot by calling +377 93 15 06 05.
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Photo credit: Anna Delliou, Unsplash
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
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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