Mama Shelter Nice isn’t just a hotel; it’s a lively retreat where Mediterranean allure meets artistic flair. From the moment you step into its kaleidoscopic lobby in the Riquier district, the hotel’s bold and playful design draws you in. The colourful lobby, adorned with striking contemporary artwork, feels like an invitation to adventure.
One of the newest additions to the Mama portfolio, it exudes an easygoing yet fun and energetic vibe throughout. Upstairs, our room was a riot of colour. Powder-pink bathroom tiles set a nostalgic tone, while quirky Looney Tunes masks hanging from bedside lamps added a cheeky vibe. Mama Shelter’s signature lighthearted style made every detail feel alive with personality.
Yet, it’s the rooftop that truly steals the show, a secret perch above the city’s bustling streets. The green and white mosaic-tiled pool sparkles beneath the sun, while colourful, patterned umbrellas create cozy corners for lounging. The rooftop bar serves fresh, wood-fired pizza alongside chilled rosé — a pairing made for a lazy afternoon under the Riviera’s golden light.
On the ground floor, the restaurant continues the explosion of colours and patterns across banquets, cushions, and the walls and ceiling. Expect a cool and buzzy, yet easy-going vibe. We enjoyed breakfast, with a buffet laid out on the central bar offering an array of sweet and savoury treats. It’s the perfect spot for lingering over brunch in the relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
For those blending business with leisure, Mama Shelter strikes a perfect balance. The workshops and studios are infused with the same creative energy found throughout the hotel, providing a seamless transition from a morning meeting to an afternoon cocktail by the pool. It’s a space designed for both productivity and celebration.
What struck me most was how beautifully Mama Shelter encapsulates the essence of Nice. This is a city where ancient history meets modern art, where the timeless elegance of the Riviera converges with youthful vitality. The hotel mirrors this duality, creating a space that’s both a welcoming retreat for travellers and a buzzing hub for locals.
My time at Mama Shelter Nice was more than just a stay — it was an experience where the line between hotel and home blurred. It’s the kind of place that invites you to linger, whether enjoying the sunlit beauty of the Côte d’Azur from the terrace with a cocktail in hand or curling up in a cozy nook with a good book. From morning coffee to evening drinks, every moment spent within its walls felt infused with creativity and joy.
As we packed to leave, I couldn’t shake the feeling that Mama Shelter had perfectly bottled the spirit of Nice: colourful, warm, and alive with vibrant energy, all wrapped in a welcoming embrace.
21 boulevard de Riquier, 06300 Nice
