The Carlton Hotel in Cannes is undoubtedly the unofficial hub of both the Cannes Lions and Cannes Film Festival.
This week, ad execs, media types and wannabes will flock to the famed Carlton terrace and throw back copious amounts of rosé until the wee hours in the morning before stumbling to their Airbnbs, to do it all over again the next day.
Management from the famed hotel answered some of Page Six’s burning questions about the happenings that go on during the advertising fest, and about the recent renovation to the storied hospitality gem.
Q: How many bottles of rosé does the hotel go through during the Cannes Lions Festival on average?
Carlton Cannes: 3,500 bottles (or more specifically, 2,510 bottles of 75cl, 710 Magnums of 1.5L, 175 Jéroboam of 5L, 105 Methuselah of 6L).
Q: And for the Cannes Film Festival?
CC: 4,050 bottles (or 1,830 regular bottles, 1,065 Magnums, 525 Jéroboam, 630 Methuselah).
Q: During Cannes Lions, the Carlton’s terrace is always packed. How many people go through every night on average?
CC: During the busy Cannes Lions period, the Riviera Restaurant’s terrace is always bustling with activity. On average, the terrace accommodates around 230 guests each night, with 70 seats inside and 160 outside.
The fame of this terrace lies in being the only elevated terrace on the Croisette, offering guests an unobstructed view of the Mediterranean Sea.
Q: What’s the most extravagant, or strangest thing, a guest has ever asked for?
CC: During the last Cannes Film Festival, Quentin — our head barman at the Carlton Beach Club — had the chance to present a signature cocktail to a renowned Hollywood actress. She was so taken with the drink that she asked Quentin for the recipe to serve it at her summer birthday celebration. Quentin prepared a special delivery gathering the recipe along with all the necessary ingredients, including a specific preparation whose details remain a closely guarded secret.
Q: The Carlton recently went through a major renovation, rumored to cost upwards of $376 million. Could you tell us about it?
CC: The Carlton Cannes went through a major metamorphosis that lasted six years, including 2.5 years of closure. Since the reopening, we have been offering guests an even more exceptional experience. With its ideal location at the heart of the famous Croisette, our establishment exudes a new aura and timeless charm, elegantly combining its heritage with modernity. The two recently renovated wings reveal opulent suites, our beautiful inner garden features a bar and infinity pool, and our fitness & spa area invites you to absolute relaxation.
Q: Could you describe your most expensive suite?
CC: The renovation came along with two major suites. The Katara Suite, a two-bedroom suite which is located on the top floor of the hotel. Each of its panoramic windows and bay windows opens onto two vast terraces, offering a breathtaking view over the Mediterranean Sea and the Bay of Cannes. Then, the Penthouse Suite, a 2-bedroom apartment with its own private rooftop. The private pool and outdoor kitchen invite guests to moments of conviviality and relaxation. The Penthouse and all the residences hosted in the extensions of the hotel are the perfect choice for extended stays with family or friends, as well as for hosting congresses, fairs and private events — such as during the Cannes Lions.
Q: You worked with Mike Tyson to become the ambassador of the hotel gym’s boxing ring last year. Do you think he’ll come to train before his big fight with Jake Paul? Does the ring get a lot of use during the year?
CC: We hope so, it would be a pleasure to welcome you him back. His daughter trains for tennis in the area, so he is often nearby.
The boxing ring at Le C Club Fitness is used daily and is highly appreciated by everyone, from top models to businessmen, boxing enthusiasts to cardio fans.
Q: Speaking of another celebrity collaboration, you partnered with Brad Pitt on a special cocktail last year. Is it still on the menu and if so is it popular?
CC: The “Secret Garden” cocktail remains one of the most popular for several reasons: It’s crafted with Brad Pitt’s renowned gin and customized by our expert mixologists on-site, it draws inspiration from our beautiful inner garden, but most importantly, it’s simply delicious! So yes, it is still on the menu, and it continues to be a favorite.
Q: What are some hidden gems on the hotel’s restaurant and bar menus that guests must try?
CC: Besides the well-known Riviera Restaurant and Carlton Beach Club, which already have stellar reputations, we recommend trying Rüya Restaurant. It offers a vibrant atmosphere and a cuisine rich in unique flavors coming from the Anatolian region. The restaurant is convivial and dynamic, featuring a resident DJ. Best of all: a terrace with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Q: Do you expect a bump in tourism after the Paris Olympics?
CC: The increased tourism driven by the Paris Olympics is expected to positively impact the entire country, including Cannes. The French Riviera, renowned for its luxury, natural beauty, and cultural richness, stands to benefit significantly. Carlton Cannes invites guests to live fully the Riviera life! Located in the beating heart of the Cote d’Azur, this upper luxury resort is a destination in itself. From signature suites to stylish residences, luxuriant garden to exquisite restaurants, and legendary beach club to cutting-edge boxing ring, a festive collection of experiences awaits to create everlasting memories.
