Synonymous with movie stars and international elite, the French Riviera oozes glamour and chic in equal quantities. And as you might expect, it also offers some of the finest hotels. Here are our recommendations for the best places to stay while visiting the Côte d’Azur.
Read our guide to the best luxury hotels in Provence
Villa Marie Saint Tropez
Saint Tropez is arguably the most famous spot on the French Riviera. Tourists flock here to catch a glimpse of its superyachts and wealthy sun-worshippers. But you can escape the throng in style, at this bohemian hotel. In places, it’s evocative of 1950s Hollywood but also graced with upscale rustic room decor in peaceful tones. Found among the pine littered, picture-perfect hillsides of Ramatuelle, Villa Marie is ideal for couples. There’s four-poster beds, open plan bathrooms, a heated pool on the terrace, a heavenly Pure Altitude Spa, and Dolce Vita, the villa’s veranda restaurant, with cuisine by Chef Cédric Luisin.
Grand Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat – Four Seasons
As part of the Four Seasons group, you can expect high-end understated luxury as standard at Grand Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat. Set on a peninsula enclave, by a small fishing village, this area has long been popular for famous faces seeking an escape from the limelight, in the lap of luxury. The award-winning spa’s hydrotherapy circuit is a great way to unwind and begin your holiday, before sampling Michelin-starred cuisine at the Chef’s Table in Salon des Collections. For 360 degree views, steam bath, hot tub and a ‘Great Gatsby’ feel, book the Suite Cocteau Penthouse, one of its 74 rooms. Families can take advantage of the kids’ club and there are indoor and outdoor pools for year-round swims.
Hôtel Martinez Cannes
Home of the iconic film festival, Cannes is another magnet for celebrities. Hyatt’s Green Globe-certified Riviera property has 409 room, ten of which are accessible. There’s an art deco theme to its swish design by Pierre-Yves Rochon, with colours echoing those found in the local coastal scenery. Culinary artistry comes from Michelin-starred Executive Chef Christian Sinicropi, in the hotel’s three upmarket eateries. The finest – La Palme d’Or, overlooks the Bay of Cannes and features crockery designed by Sinicropi and his wife. There’s also a spa, kids’ club, beach and plenty of meeting facilities (all buzzing with famous faces and press during the film festival)
Hotel Royal-Riviera
Along at Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and just a short walk from Baie des Fourmis beach, is Hotel Royal-Riviera. The 94 room hotel is perched atop a rocky cliff and is part palatial, part intimate villa. A meal at La Table du Royal overlooking the Mediterranean is a real highlight, or choose Jasmin Grill & Lounge for poolside dining, then enjoy a drink at the African-styled bar. The hotel also has a full-service spa, pool, childcare and access to watersports. With every room soundproofed and serene surroundings, this is a great option for those in need of peace and quiet.