Monaco

Monaco might be the second smallest country in the world, but the glamorous principality more than punches above its weight.

Nestled between France and Italy and lapped by the cobalt blue waters of the Mediterranean the tiny sovereign state is a magnet for high-flyers, gamblers and fans of Formula One – which roars through the streets of Monte Carlo while holidaymakers watch from the decks of mega yachts moored in the harbour.

Your private charter jet will land at Nice airport, around 30km from the principality.

After a half-hour drive, you can arrive at the Hotel Metropole driveway which is lined with tropical jasmine and orchids.

The hotel boasts discreet luxury – with a rooftop pool area designed by Karl Lagerfeld, star chef Joel Robuchon at the helm of the restaurant and a stunning Givenchy spa.

To indulge in some riviera history, try the Monte-Carlo Beach boutique hotel. The venue’s beach club and stunning Olympic size pool have been a draw to the Monaco social set since the 1920s.

Guests can transfer from their private jet flight at Nice to a boat, landing at the hotel’s private jetty ready to tuck into delicacies at the completely organic restaurant and relax at the hotel’s eco spa.

Wine connoisseurs will adore the decadent Hotel de Paris, which boasts the world’s largest wine cellar. The luxurious hotel, on Casino Square with swanky shops and restaurants just metres away, has also been the location for two Bond movies.

You can order coffee at the press of a button in the hotel’s courtyard, or make use of a shuttle to take you to the hotel’s private beach resort.

Monaco is renowned for its gastronomy. If you want some semi-private dining (with just five tables at the restaurant) book into La Table d’Antonio Salvatore au Rampoldi, where diners are treated to a fully immersive sensory experience with French and Italian culinary influences.

For some Michelin-starred Japanese/fusion cuisine, try Yoshi – which marries top quality ingredients with flawless technique, stunningly presented.

Or for an unforgettable meal of three star Michelin Mediterranean cooking, snag a table at Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse for treats such as sea bass with asparagus, citrus and olives, and warm coconut souffle with pineapple granita and sage sorbet.

Ducasse, who was first awarded the stars 30 years ago and has maintained them ever since, now boasts 30 venues across the globe.

For a bar with a stunning view of the city’s famous waterfront, try Saphir 24. The venue, which remains open 24 hours a day, treats guests to everything from an afternoon tea with a Champagne cocktail, to a late-night beer with a sports match on the screen.

For a tiny country, Monaco has plenty of international attractions, including the Monaco Yacht Show, the Monte Carlo Rolex Masters, as well as the Grand Prix and, of course, the renowned casino at Monte Carlo.

The country enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with blazing sunshine throughout the summer, and mild winters. If you’re not a fan of the scorching sun, then spring and autumn are lovely times to take a private air charter, with the sea staying warm well into October.

If you’re after a break of glamour, gastronomy and gorgeous weather, you can certainly bet on Monaco to deliver.