Myriam KOURNAF

Hosîtality Heritage

By Laurence Genevet

From Marrakech to Nice: a path of passion • • • The hotel business is the story of my life. I was born at the legendary Hôtel La Mamounia in Marrakech, where my parents worked and were later managers. I’ve grown up in this world. Sophistication, fine objets d’art, and impeccable interior design have always been around me. I took my first steps on La Mamounia’s green and white mosaic floors, and years later, when I went back there, I felt that emotion that reminded me it was where it all began. After studying law, the hotel business took hold of me. I’ve worked around the world: at the Four Seasons in Atlanta, the Beau Rivage in Nice, the Montalembert in Paris, and in Napa Valley for Francis Ford Coppola. Now, finally, I’m back in Nice in 2022! Each of these experiences has reinforced my vision of the hotel business as an art of living, focused on caring for others.

Respect, a founding value • • • The Hôtel du Couvent is, first and foremost, a place steeped in history. Owner Valéry Grégo and I share the same vision. Respect for the site has guided all our initiatives: the Herboristerie, the Boulangerie, the bedrooms, the vegetable garden – nothing has changed. We called in local artisans to meticulously restore every detail, and animate the place. Our team strives for simplicity and humility every day. Chef Thomas Vételé’s cuisine reflects the same values in his cuisine, which uses produce from our Ferme Notre Dame in Touët-Sur-Var. 

Serenity in Vieux Nice • • • The Hôtel du Couvent is a haven of peace in contrast to the hustle and bustle of the old town. Guests are captivated by the silence in the Cour des Orangers, the birdsong in La Guinguette and the breathtaking view over the Nice skyline. Everyone feels a sense of presence, benevolence, and calm in this convent-turned-hotel. Valéry Grégo and I have shared many emotions since the start of this project. Emotions shares in turn with our teams and guests by organising exceptional events: a concert by Hania Rani, a music festival (LCMF), a dance festival organised with Aurélie Dupont, and a tribute to Philippe Sollers attended by Gallimard and Josyane Savigneau.  The Hôtel du Couvent is unlike any other, a place that lived 400 years before us and will live on long after us. We must look after it and never forget how lucky we are to work here. When I walk out onto the porch in the morning, I am constantly amazed at the beauty of the place and the energy it gives us to bring this magical place to life together. 

[ 2015] Myriam appointed by Francis Ford Coppola to run his hotels in Central America and Italy​​. 

[ 2014 ] The Couvent de la Visitation transformation project into a luxury hotel in Nice begins. 

[ 2019 ] Her son Louis is born. [ 2024 ] Hôtel du Couvent opens on 20 June