Meet Valéry Grego, the visionary behind and owner of Hôtel du Couvent. A formidable hospitality tastemaker, Valéry is a dear friend of the Pellicano hotels – so much so that we recently partnered up to bring our very own Hotel Il Pellicano to his Nice gem! – and always brings a distinct blend of style, soul, and storytelling to anything he does.
Hôtel du Couvent, a 17th-century convent in Nice thoughtfully reimagined as a serene, design-forward retreat is a case in point. With the property – which you should absolutely visit – he’s not just offering rooms; he’s crafting an experience rooted in history, beauty, and quiet luxury.
We asked Valéry to share his ISSIMO picks for May. Curious? Read on!
ISSIMO Il Pellicano Ashtray
I love this object. It’s iconic. It tells such a story and takes us through so many decades of Il Pellicano. 60 years!
Supplement to the Italian Dictionary
I love non-verbal communication. In Italy it’s a culture, one that also dictates an identity. This book reflects that, and I find it amazing.
ISSIMO x Pineider Pencils
I really like the idea of doing everything with pencils. The idea of it being non permanent, that you can erase, that you can create shades, that you have to look after the object to keep it fit for purpose. I can’t have enough of these – such a good thing to have and carry around.
Sant’Eustachio Il Caffe Mix 1Kg in Grains
I don’t drink coffee but I like to imagine that one day I might and that when that happens I will drink amazing coffee in Italy. So here we go!
ISSIMO X Allagiulia Artisanal Brick Embroidery Loafers
Only in Italy can you really pull the loafers off. It’s a way of being, a state of mind. I went for a bright colour because why not.
ISSIMO x Lido Negroni Swim Trunks
You need both a negroni and a swimsuit at Il Pellicano. That’s clearly a two-in-one version.
