The Wine Cellars of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo
Publié par Paolo Petrini le 03/07/2025
Temps de lecture
15
min.
Places and discoveries
Few people know it, but under the famous Monegasque palace hides an unsuspected secret. Welcome to a world of elegance and refinement, where wine is king and history flows like a grand cru. The Cellars of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, hidden under the green gardens of the establishment, are much more than just a place to keep bottles: it is a sanctuary of wine, an underground treasure where each vintage tells a part of legend. We invite you to open the doors to discover this magical place steeped in history, a symbol of the unique art of living that reigns in the heart of the Principality and which attracts an international clientele seduced by the sweetness of Monegasque life. Living just a few steps from this historic jewel, in the most prestigious district of Monaco, appeals to lovers of fine wines as well as informed investors. The Carré d'Or, with its refinement and inimitable atmosphere, perfectly embodies the alliance between tradition and modernity. Those who wish to settle in this exclusive area will find in our selection of properties for sale in the Carré d'Or district unique opportunities corresponding to the highest standards, combining architectural elegance and exceptional location.
The Carré d'Or offers an incomparable daily life, punctuated by the immediate proximity of palaces, luxury boutiques and emblematic places such as the Casino de Monte-Carlo. For those who prefer to enjoy this living environment without acquiring a property, our portfolio also includes high-end options for rent in the Carré d'Or district, ideal for fully savouring Monegasque exclusivity while maintaining flexibility and comfort. Depending on your needs, the 3-room apartment is a wise choice for a first investment or a prestigious pied-à-terre, while the 4-room apartment will appeal to families looking for a generous and refined space, perfectly suited to daily life in the Principality.
Before making your real estate project a reality, it is essential to understand the local procedures and obligations. Our guide to buying real estate in Monaco details each step, from the search for the property to the signing at the notary, also addressing the conditions for living in Monaco, an essential element to anticipate your installation and organize your daily life in a secure and privileged environment. For those who are considering a change of residence, knowing how to become a Monegasque resident is a fundamental step. We support our clients in the preparation of their file, so that they can settle in with peace of mind and take full advantage of the advantages that Monaco offers in terms of quality of life, taxation and services.
Finally, deepening your knowledge of this unique territory is an asset to better understand your future project. Our page dedicated to everything you need to know about the Principality of Monaco centralises essential cultural, historical and practical information. You will find out how big Monaco is or is Monaco a country, in order to remove any questions and serenely approach your new life in one of the most exclusive places in the world.
The history of the Wine Cellars of the Hôtel de Paris
These mythical wine cellars are a fascinating chapter in the history of Monaco and viticulture. The initiative for their construction dates back to 1864, under the impetus of François Blanc, visionary founder of the Société des Bains de Mer, who imagined a hotel complex with several establishments linked together. The titanic works mobilized some 300 trades, and the cellars were inaugurated in 1874 by Marie Blanc (François Blanc's wife) who partly financed the project from her personal fortune. Designed from the outset to receive the barrels directly from the vineyards and to carry out the bottling on site, they offered ideal storage conditions for these precious nectars.
During the Second World War, the cellars played a crucial role in protecting the hotel's greatest wines. The employees had the clever idea of erecting a wall made of empty bottles, hiding behind it about 20,000 of the most valuable bottles, as well as the hotel's silverware. This stratagem made it possible to remove this treasure from the occupier. At the Liberation, Winston Churchill himself came to celebrate the reopening of the cellars, opening a rum vintage from 1811 for the occasion – some of whose bottles still rest in the darkness of the cellars today. Over the decades, this discreet place has also been the scene of memorable celebrations, such as the 20th wedding anniversary of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace of Monaco, celebrated here in 1976.
From the 1960s, bottling on the property having become the norm, the cellars of the Hôtel de Paris devoted themselves entirely to the ageing and storage of wines. They house prestigious references – Château Margaux 1929, Château d'Yquem 1890, Petrus 1945, to name but a few – while preparing for the future with more recent exceptional vintages that continuously enrich the heritage collection. Today, this underground gem is one of the largest hotel cellars in the world. Extending over approximately 1,500 m² in the rock and divided into several vaulted galleries, they can accommodate up to 350,000 bottles in conditions of silence, stability and freshness perfect for the conservation of wines. Better still, more than 450,000 bottles are currently resting there – an absolute record – making the 42 restaurants that the cellars supply happy in high season, thanks to the dedicated work of a team of seven year-round employees.
Major renovation of the Cellars of the Hôtel de Paris
In 2025, on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the Cellars of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, they have benefited from a major renovation that has given new life to this unique place in the world. The work, entrusted to the Moinard Bétaille firm and the Monegasque architect Gabriel Viora, has sublimated the authenticity of the cellars while bringing a contemporary touch, with the use of noble materials such as La Turbie stone and light oak woodwork. The lighting has also been completely redesigned, creating a hushed and elegant atmosphere ten metres underground, which highlights the 450,000 or so bottles preciously preserved in this sanctuary.
One of the major novelties of this renovation is the creation of the Cercle des Caves de l'Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, an ultra-private club for lovers of fine wines. This exclusive circle offers its members unique experiences, such as private tastings, gourmet dinners prepared by starred chefs and meetings with renowned winemakers. The official inauguration of this Circle was held on 11 June 2025, in the presence of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco and the President-Delegate of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, underlining the historical and cultural importance of the cellars in Monegasque heritage.
Among the redesigned spaces, the Marie Blanc Reserve pays tribute to the woman who inaugurated the cellars in 1874. This prestigious setting is dedicated to the rarest and oldest bottles in the collection, such as a Grande Champagne Cognac dating from 1809, a Mouton-Rothschild 1945 or a Petrus 1945, all kept in ideal conditions of temperature and humidity.
The reputation of the renovated cellars was also honored at the Osaka World Expo 2025, where the Monaco Pavilion, under the theme "Take Care of Wonder", offered an immersive wine tour. This journey has made it possible to present to the whole world the excellence and art of living of Monaco through the exceptional know-how of the Caves de l'Hôtel de Paris, confirming their status as an international reference for lovers and collectors of great wines.
Private Privatization, Visits and Exceptional Events
More than just a cellar, the Cellars of the Hotel de Paris offer a unique experience to wine lovers and privileged visitors. It is indeed possible to discover this extraordinary place during private tours or exclusive events . Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer allows you to organize prestigious dinners in the heart of the cellars, private tastings and guided tours by a master sommelier on request – a rare opportunity to explore this historic sanctuary and learn more about the art of winemaking and conservation of great wines. This space of approximately 1,500 m², located 10 meters underground, lends itself perfectly to the organization of unforgettable evenings: it can accommodate up to 36 guests for a sit-down dinner followed by tastings, in an intimate and refined setting (with prior reservation). The cellars house bottles from the five great French wine terroirs – Champagne, Provence, Bordeaux, Burgundy and the Rhône Valley – carefully aligned by region in long vaulted galleries. Guided by the expertise of the hotel's sommeliers, guests can travel through these exceptional terroirs by tasting some of the most prestigious wines in the world: Lafite Rothschild, Petrus, Cheval Blanc, Château d'Yquem, Romanée-Conti, Dom Pérignon, Cristal Roederer... So many legendary names, some of which are extremely rare vintages dating back to the nineteenth century, testifying to the oenological and historical richness preserved in this place.
To experience an evening in the Cellars of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo is to treat yourself to a moment out of time, in the hushed atmosphere where silence and passion for wine reign. This exclusive experience, once chosen by great personalities, is now accessible to individuals or companies wishing to make an impression. Prestige and authenticity come together, making every private event in the cellars an unforgettable memory.
Living around the Hôtel de Paris : in the heart of Monaco's Carré d'Or
The Wine Cellars of the Hôtel de Paris are not only a hidden treasure for oenophiles – they also embody the essence of luxury and sophistication that define the Carré d'Or of Monaco. This iconic neighborhood, also known as Monte Carlo, is renowned for its opulence, cultural richness, and glamorous lifestyle. It is home to the Place du Casino and its legendary palaces (the Hôtel de Paris, the Hôtel Hermitage, etc.), surrounded by luxury boutiques (Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior, Cartier, Chopard, etc.) and gastronomic hotspots. There are also architectural and cultural gems such as the Café de Paris and the Opéra Garnier, which contribute to its historical prestige. Considered one of the most famous and luxurious districts in the world, the Carré d'Or offers a unique concentration of glamour, elegance and high-end services.
For residents and investors alike, this ultra-exclusive neighborhood represents the pinnacle of luxury real estate. It is home to some of the most luxurious properties on the planet, a reflection of the exclusivity and elegance of the surrounding area. Our real estate agency, ideally located in this illustrious area (in the Prince de Galles building, a stone's throw from the Place du Casino), is proud to offer an exceptional selection of properties in the most sought-after residences in Monaco. Whether you are looking for a luxury pied-à-terre or an exceptional family apartment, to buy or rent, we can present you with opportunities in emblematic addresses of the Carré d'Or, such as :
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One Monte-Carlo – a recent residence with modern architecture, spectacular views of the Place du Casino and ultra-luxurious services;
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Park Palace – a luxury building known for its timeless elegance and prestigious shopping mall;
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Monte-Carlo Star – an iconic residence synonymous with luxury and exclusivity, located on the edge of the Casino gardens;
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Les Floralies – a renowned address offering a peaceful and green setting in the heart of the city;
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The Metropole Residence – high-end apartments with five-star hotel services in the same complex as the Metropole Monte-Carlo;
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Le Mirabeau – a highly coveted building, renowned for its breathtaking views of the sea and its privileged location in the middle of the Grand Prix corner.
These exceptional properties offer a rare opportunity to live in an incomparable environment, in the heart of Monaco's most prestigious district, in the immediate vicinity of unique cultural and historical sites – such as the Wine Cellars of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, This Monegasque jewel attracts connoisseurs from all over the world. Choosing an apartment in the Carré d'Or means ensuring not only an address of absolute prestige, but also privileged access to a world of luxury, history and culture embodied by emblematic sites such as the Caves de l'Hôtel de Paris. It is this unique combination that makes the Carré d'Or one of the most desirable areas of the Principality for a discerning international clientele.
The highlights of the Cellars of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo
Discover at a glance what makes the Cellars of the Hôtel de Paris a unique place in the world and a treasure of Monegasque heritage:
🔸 Largest hotel cellars in the world
With more than 450,000 bottles and a surface area of 1,500 m², they represent an exceptional sanctuary for lovers and collectors of fine wines.
🔸 150 years of history and heritage
Since their inauguration in 1874 by Marie Blanc, these cellars have embodied tradition and passion for wine, crossing the ages while preserving rare vintages.
🔸 Major renovation in 2025
For their 150th anniversary, the cellars have been magnified by a renovation combining noble materials, refined lighting and contemporary design, under the direction of the Moinard Bétaille firm and the architect Gabriel Viora.
🔸 Creation of the Cercle des Caves
In 2025, an ultra-private club was created, offering its members unique experiences: exclusive tastings, dinners prepared by starred chefs and meetings with exceptional winemakers.
🔸 Marie Blanc Reserve
A prestigious space specially designed for the rarest bottles in the collection, such as an 1809 Cognac or a 1945 Petrus, guaranteeing their conservation in optimal conditions.
🔸 Official inauguration in June 2025
The reopening was celebrated by H.S.H. Prince Albert II and Stéphane Valeri, affirming the place of the cellars as a cultural and heritage centre of Monaco.
🔸 Exclusive wine experience
Visitors can experience unforgettable moments thanks to guided tours, tailor-made tastings and private events organized in the heart of this mythical place.
🔸 Participation in the Osaka 2025 World Expo
The Cellars were highlighted in the Monaco Pavilion, highlighting the Monegasque art of living and the unique know-how of the cellars on the international scene.
🔸 Integration into the Carré d'Or
In the heart of the most prestigious district of the Principality, they contribute to the attractiveness and prestige of the Carré d'Or, reinforcing the value of real estate and the exclusivity of the sector.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about the Cellars and the Carré d'Or de Monaco
Q: Are the Cellars of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo open to visitors?
A: No, the cellars are not open to the public for free visits. Being a private and secure place, they are only accessible as part of tours or special events organized by the hotel. However, it is possible to discover them by booking a private tour or a tasting organized with Monte-Carlo SBM. Exclusive tours can be arranged, offering the opportunity to walk through this historic site accompanied by an experienced sommelier. In summary, you have to plan ahead (via the Hotel de Paris or the Resort's events department) to have the chance to explore this wine sanctuary.
Q: How can I organize a private event in these exceptional cellars?
A: The privatization of the Cellars of the Hotel de Paris is possible for special occasions – gala dinners, birthdays, corporate events, etc. To do so, you should contact the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo (or the Monte-Carlo Catering & Banquets department) directly to define the terms and conditions. The space can accommodate about thirty seated guests, the dedicated team will accompany you in the organization of a tailor-made dinner, enhanced by visits to the cellars and tastings of the best vintages. Once your reservation has been validated, everything is done to create an unforgettable evening, from the food and wine pairing developed by the Head Sommelier to the magical scenography of the place. In short, it is an ultra-exclusive, very popular experience, which requires you to plan well in advance to privatize this legendary site.
Q: What is the price of real estate in Monaco's Golden Square?
A: The Carré d'Or is renowned for being one of the most expensive real estate markets in the world. Prices are extremely high here, far beyond most other major cities. In 2023, the average price per square meter in the Monte-Carlo district (of which the Carré d'Or is a part) was around €50,000 to € 60,000 /m². More specifically, transactions are often between €50,000 and €70,000 per m², and some exceptional properties even exceed €100,000 per square meter – a level almost unequalled on the planet. By way of comparison, the general average in the Principality of Monaco has fluctuated around €51,000 to €52,000 /m² in recent years. These figures bear witness to the prestige of the Carré d'Or and the scarcity of supply in this highly sought-after sector. Investing in this district therefore requires a substantial budget, but many wealthy buyers are willing to pay the price for the excellence and wealth security it offers.
Q: What makes the Carré d'Or in Monaco so prestigious?
A: Several factors make the Carré d'Or a unique place in the world. On the one hand, it concentrates emblematic sites of the Principality: the famous Place du Casino and the Casino de Monte-Carlo itself, surrounded by legendary hotels such as the Hôtel de Paris and the Hôtel Hermitage. It is also home to the biggest luxury brands – jewellers (Cartier, Chopard, etc.), haute couture houses (Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior, etc.) – which attracts a demanding international clientele. On the other hand, the Carré d'Or shines with its first-rate gastronomic and cultural offer : it is here that some of the best restaurants in Monaco are located (including the Louis XV – 3 Michelin stars of Alain Ducasse, the Grill, etc.) and cultural institutions such as the Opéra Garnier or the Ballet de Monte-Carlo. Finally, the district is renowned for its prestigious real estate at record prices, with residences offering ultramodern services (swimming pools, spas, concierge service, etc.) to a hand-picked clientele. This concentration of luxury, glamour and lifestyle, combined with Monaco's security and attractive taxation, explains why the Carré d'Or is nicknamed the "Golden Triangle" or "Golden Square" and remains one of the most coveted venues on the world stage.
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