Romantic Inspiration from an Iconic Riviera Voyage

In April of 1956, the world watched in awe as Hollywood royalty became real royalty. Grace Kelly’s fairytale marriage to H.S.H. Prince Rainier III of Monaco captivated hearts across the globe—but it was their honeymoon that defined Riviera glamour. Aboard the Deo Juvante II, a 147-foot yacht gifted to Rainier by Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis, the couple embarked on a sun-drenched Mediterranean voyage that would forever inspire notions of romantic escapism.

From the sun-splashed harbors of Corsica to the crystalline waters of Sardinia, the princely honeymoon was a picture of elegance and intimacy. Grace, known for her timeless style, appeared effortlessly chic in high-waisted trousers, silk scarves, and crisp blouses—a seaside wardrobe that continues to inspire bridal trousseaus today. 

The Deo Juvante II, once a naval vessel transformed into a floating palace, offered a rare kind of privacy and splendor. Far from the flashing cameras of Monaco and Hollywood, the couple reveled in la dolce vita—savoring local seafood, reading poetry, and strolling hand in hand through medieval port towns.

A Mediterranean Love Story: Then and Now

For modern couples dreaming of their own sunlit Mediterranean escape, Grace and Rainier’s honeymoon offers a map for romance. While few can board a yacht like the Deo Juvante II, the spirit of their journey—elegant, leisurely, and rich with sensory beauty—is easy to recreate with thoughtful planning.

1. Begin in Monaco: The Jewel of the Riviera

Just as Grace and Rainier began their new life together in Monaco, your modern honeymoon can begin where the Alps meet the sea. Stay at the iconic Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, where the Princess Grace Suite offers sweeping views and curated memorabilia from Her Serene Highness’s life. Dine under the stars at Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse, and toast your love with a glass of rosé on the terrace of the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel.

For a meaningful touch, take a private tour of the Princess Grace Rose Garden, planted by Prince Rainier in memory of his wife. With 300 varieties of blooms, it’s a fragrant symbol of enduring romance.

2. Chart a Coastal Escape

Channel the couple’s spirit of seafaring adventure with a luxury yacht charter along the Côte d’Azur. Today’s Mediterranean yachts offer everything from Michelin-starred chefs to spa services, but the magic lies in slow travel: drifting into hidden coves, swimming off the stern, and savoring sunset aperitifs as you float past pastel villages.

Suggested itinerary:

• Portofino: A classic Riviera hideaway where Grace was often spotted. Shop for handmade sandals or enjoy a romantic lunch on the terrace at Belmond Splendido.
  

• Corsica: Just as Grace and Rainier did, explore the rugged coastline and quiet charm of places like Bonifacio or Calvi.
  

• Capri or Amalfi: End your journey in Italy, perhaps at Le Sirenuse, with lemon trees in bloom and the scent of salt in the air.

3. Curate Grace-Inspired Experiences

To infuse your getaway with Grace de Monaco spirit:

• Wardrobe: Think silk headscarves, retro sunglasses, and crisp linen. Grace’s style lives on in timeless pieces ideal for yacht decks and seaside strolls.

• Fragrance: Wear a scent that evokes her essence. Promenade Sur Le Rocher, with its white florals and Riviera elegance, is a romantic companion for your travels.

• Moments: Pack a book of poetry, a vintage camera, or a sketchpad. Like Grace, find beauty in slow, intentional moments—whether sipping espresso in a quiet piazza or journaling by moonlight.

The Legacy of a Honeymoon

Grace and Rainier’s honeymoon wasn’t just a trip—it was the beginning of a shared story that blended cinematic glamour with regal grace. Their journey reminds us that the most romantic getaways aren’t always defined by lavish gestures, but by meaningful details: a shared laugh on a starlit deck, a morning swim in turquoise water, the luxury of time spent entirely together.

This summer, whether you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary, or simply a romantic escape, look to Grace’s Mediterranean reverie for inspiration. Let it guide you toward places that stir the heart and moments that linger—elegant, timeless, and entirely your own.