The French Riviera, otherwise known as Côte D’Azur, extends along the coast encompassing cities such as Nice, Cannes, Saint Tropez as well as Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Antibes, Saint-Raphael among other seaside resort locations. The summer in the Côte D’Azur is a hotspot among celebrities, an affluent crowd, and those seeking a glamorous summer getaway. There are luxury hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and designer boutiques galore. Aside from the renowned glitzy Saint Tropez and Cannes, there are also quieter and lesser known yet super charming parts of the south of France. Away from the coast up in Provence, you have the picturesque towns blooming with lavender fields in the months of June and July as well as a notable food and rosé wine scene in Aix-en-Provence.
Getting to the south of France is an easy flight from Paris down to Nice. If you’re looking to visit more than one destination, it’s best to rent a car so you can work around your own schedule and allow more flexibility. There are so many lovely places to see in the Cote D’Azur so I’d recommend bopping around a bit. The perfect balance is spending some time in Provence, timing your visit around the lavender fields, and enjoying a quieter and slower pace for some R&R. After Provence, take the drive towards the coast and relax by the beaches, enjoy sunset cocktails and the night life of Saint Tropez.
What are some of the best hotels in the Cote D’Azur?
There are, of course, your luxurious five-star hotels from the Four Seasons property in Cap Ferrat to the iconic Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc but there are also a number of boutique hotels and accommodations. Note: expect prices to be high, especially during peak summer season, but it is the French Riviera after all.
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc
The iconic Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is the epitome of Côte D’Azur grandeur. Sprawling across 22 acres, there is a heated saltwater pool, views of the Mediterranean. Though there is no sandy beach, guests can enjoy the water with at a few access point off the rocks. Lunch at the grill or dinner at the restaurant gives incredible views of the water. There is an old-fashioned formality to the property and it certainly is well-known name for a luxurious stay.
Grand-Hôtel Du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel
This Four Seasons property is ultimate luxury, located on the exclusive Cap Ferrat peninsula on 17 acres of landscaped grounds. There is a pool and beach access, which can be reached via the funicular that goes from the hotel on the hilltop down to the beach. The rooms here are generously sized and bathrooms are stocked with Hermes product. The concierge can organize almost anything to make your trip a memorable one.
Hotel Lou Pinet
Hotel Lou Pinet embraces more of the laid-back spirit of the South of France with décor utilizing prints and shades from the sixties and seventies. The exterior has mint green shutters for a classic Provencal aesthetic. The pool, one of the largest in Saint Tropez hotels, with its turquoise tiles ties in with the Provencal look and though there is no direct beach access, the hotel provides a free shuttle that takes guests both to Pampelonne beach or into town regularly. This feels like more of an escape compared to some of the livelier hotels right on the beach but provides privacy and relaxation. On property, the Beefbar restaurant is Michelin recommended and a Saint Tropez outpost to its existing locations in Monaco, Paris, and Rome.
Hotel Crillon-le-Brave
Hotel Crillon-le-Brave is perched in the foothills of Mont Ventoux, occupying a 17th century village with old world charm. The hotel’s design interlinks a number of old buildings that wander around a terrace and pool. Book the Ventoux rooms, which have views of Mont Ventoux, as the name would suggest. La Madeleine, the restaurant on property, is Michelin recommended and has stunning views of the countryside in an intimate and romantic setting. Take advantage of wine tasting with the sommelier on property and enjoy the local products in a hotel property that seems like a well kept secret.
Lily of the Valley
Designed by Philippe Starck, Lily of the Valley encompasses a rustic luxe aesthetic with earth tones, perched at the top of a hilltop 15 minutes from Saint Tropez. The property has a gorgeous pool overlooking and even more gorgeous view. The hotel has a luxurious yet relaxed feel to it, catering less to the glitzy celebrity parties that you may find elsewhere in Saint Tropez and more to the local vibes. The beach club also chaises to lounge by the water followed by a casual lunch at Pepe right by the beach club. Pro tip: even if you are not staying on the property, you can book chaises at the beach club with prices varying on the type of accommodation.
Hotel Epi 1959
Hotel Epi 1959 is the low-key, effortlessly chic version of the French Riviera – the antithesis of loud-money. There are only 10 cabins, creating a very intimate setting for the traveler looking for the more bohemian, charming vibe of Saint Tropez in the 1950s. The property went through a major refurbishment with Italian interior design by Monica Damonte and Madison Cox in charge of landscaping and gardens (Madison worked on the Marjorelle Garden in Marrakech). The cabins, pool, and tennis courts are tucked behind the sand dunes of Pampelonne beach in Ramatuelle. Contact the hotel directly to inquire about booking at this private club.
Villa Gallici
Villa Gallici is housed in an 18th century mansion and is a Relais & Chateaux property. Surrounded by lush gardens of lavender and cypress trees, Villa Gallici is closer to Aix-en-Provence – away from the beaches and glamour of the ritzy seaside resorts. This property has much more of a countryside seclusion and charm with only 23 rooms and suites. There is a pool on the terrace, an onsite wine cellar, and spa. Enjoy the quieter offerings of the countryside while also discovering Aix-en-Provence and all it has to offer in wine and delicious food.
La Reserve Ramatuelle
La Reserve Ramatuelle is discretely hidden behind a blanket of umbrella pines, offering guests ultimate privacy and the feeling of luxe seclusion. There are a dozen or so three-to-six bedroom villas , each with a dedicated butler to take care of your every need. With swimming pools and full kitchens and laundry rooms, but with the access to hotel amenities and concierge, La Reserve Ramatuelle is a great option for families and those looking to take advantage of an escape to the South of France but in style.