The transformation of this historic convent reflects a sensitivity to its origins, merging traditional construction with sustainable practices and local materials. Built in 1604 by the Order of Saint Claire and later inhabited by the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary, the convent's architecture embodies a minimalist aesthetic born of necessity and practicality. The restoration team, Indian practice Studio Mumbai and Nice-based architect Louis-Antoine Grégo of Studio Méditerranée, embraced this “frugal” construction philosophy, repurposing materials like aged timber and stone salvaged from the original site. Not only does this approach honour the resourceful spirit of the nuns who once inhabited the space, but it also emphasizes sustainability in a meaningful, tactile way that resonates with today’s environmentally conscious traveller.

Known for its understated elegance, Festen’s design team has artfully restored the convent’s interiors, creating 88 rooms and suites that showcase a blend of bespoke pieces and antique furniture. Many pieces, such as the desks crafted from 400-year-old salvaged wooden beams salvaged were specifically designed for the hotel, each one a nod to the building's history. Rooms offer views of Nice’s Old Town, the Mediterranean hills, or the convent's secluded gardens, fostering a sense of serenity and connection to the natural beauty surrounding the property. Among its 18 spacious suites, the Garden Suite is particularly notable, with its own private garden and open-air shower, while the Cloister Terrace Suite offers an expansive sundeck with views over the cloister and an orange tree-filled courtyard.

The hotel’s culinary philosophy centres on a dedication to provenance and seasonality, using ingredients sourced directly from its own farm in Touët-sur-Var. Grégo explains, “Having our own  farm, this also means making a commitment to the living world. Understanding our products, protecting the soil, preserving local savoir-faire and creating seasonal menus.” From the cloister restaurant where dishes like raw amberjack and pistou gnocchi pay homage to regional flavours, to the more casual Le Bistrot des Serruriers and Guinguette café which serves refreshing drinks and light bites beside the outdoor pool, there are a variety of dining experiences to choose from. Meanwhile, the on-site bakery, La Boulangerie du Couvent, bakes bread daily with flour freshly milled on the premises in keeping with convent tradition. A wine cellar housing an impressive selection of 3,500 bottles, invites guests to indulge in curated wine pairings, including at Le Bar, with its indoor seating and cloister terrace.

The convent's gardens, spanning 2.5 acres, provide an oasis of calm within the bustling city where over 300 plant species, including olive and lemon trees, herbs, and fragrant flowers, fill the air with natural scents. Guests can wander its terraced landscapes, punctuated by water features that descend toward the Roman-inspired thermal baths. Inspired by the ancient Roman bathhouses of Cimiez, Nice, the hotel's wellness area includes a series of pools, each one warmer than the last, designed to offer a gradual journey into relaxation. An indoor pool and a 20-meter outdoor lap pool, surrounded by gardens, offer further opportunities for rejuvenation, while the resident herbalist, Gregory Unrein, provides personalized herbal treatments, teas, and tinctures made from herbs freshly picked from the garden.

The Hôtel du Couvent goes beyond traditional hospitality by engaging with the local community through its Saturday morning farmers’ market. Held in the hotel’s courtyard, the event brings together local producers, allowing guests and locals alike to connect with regional traditions and stock up on fresh products. This sense of community, as well as the hotel’s commitment to sustainable tourism, aligns with Grégo’s vision based on meaningful, responsible travel experiences. As he say: “People today want to share and engage more. They are mindful of their impact on the world and aim to re-evaluate the purpose and environmental footprint of their travel.”

Guided by Grégo’s vision, Hôtel du Couvent offers guests an immersive experience that harmonizes historical reverence with contemporary luxury. Its thoughtful design, rich history, and commitment to sustainability provide a genuine connection to local culture, making it a distinctive and invaluable addition to Nice’s hospitality landscape.