New operating hours announced for Col de Tende tunnel

Authorities have announced updated opening times for the Col de Tende tunnel, which will remain subject to ongoing works on the French side of the border.

From 15th to 28th September, the tunnel will be open on weekdays from 12pm to 1pm and from 6pm to 9pm. On Saturdays and Sundays, access will be limited to the evening slot between 6pm and 9pm.

From 29th September to 4th December, the weekday timetable will change slightly, with the tunnel accessible from 6pm to 8pm and again from 6pm to 9pm, while weekend openings will remain from 6pm to 9pm.

From 5th December to 11th January, the tunnel will be open daily from 6pm to 9pm.

Works continue on the French side

Officials have confirmed that the tunnel cannot yet operate at full capacity, as construction work continues on the French side of the border. The works are expected to require several more months before completion.

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Photo source: Ventimiglia Facebook page

Grand Prix de la Haute Joaillerie to debut in Monaco this October

Just weeks after it was announced in Monaco, the programme and participants of the inaugural Grand Prix de la Haute Joaillerie (GPHJ) has been unveiled at a glittering presentation in Place Vendôme, the historic heart of high jewellery. The first ceremony will be staged on 25th October in the legendary Salle des Étoiles at the Sporting Monte-Carlo.

Co-founded by Stéphane Valeri, Managing Director of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), and Jean-Philippe Braud, Director of the GPHJ, the event has been conceived as a universal celebration of jewellery excellence. “The ambition is to honour the most remarkable savoir-faire and offer high jewellery a stage worthy of its cultural heritage and contemporary role,” explained the founders.

On one exceptional night, leading Maisons, dynasties of jewellers, master artisans, gemstone representatives, emerging talents and collectors will converge in Monaco for a runway of extraordinary creations, blending artistry, heritage and prestige.

The Maisons and the jury

Eleven of the world’s greatest high jewellery houses have confirmed their participation: Anna Hu, Boucheron, Buccellati, Bulgari, Chanel, Chopard, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton, Messika, and Tiffany & Co.

The jury, chaired by jewellery expert Fabienne Reybaud, includes international figures from design, curation, gemmology and media. Together, they will award eight prizes, including the coveted Grand Prix, as well as distinctions for heritage, design, savoir-faire, gemstones and emerging talent.

Monaco as an open showcase

In the three days leading up to the gala, Monaco itself will become an exhibition space. Participating Maisons will display signature pieces in their boutiques, while an unprecedented public exhibition at the Café de la Rotonde in the Casino will showcase creations in one central location. Residents and visitors will also be invited to vote for their favourite designs via the dedicated website and citywide QR codes, with the most popular piece receiving the Public Prize.

A new landmark on the luxury calendar

The evening will culminate with a gala dinner, the awards ceremony and celebrations continuing at Jimmy’z Monte-Carlo, reinforcing Monaco’s reputation as a global stage for culture and creativity.

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Photo credit: Lionel Auguste