
Best Luxury Hotels in France
France – sometimes dubbed ‘l’hexagone’ due to its six-sided shape – is home to what is arguably the most romantic city in the world, and the glitziest rivieras in Europe. The varying climates here will suit all types of traveller – from the cooler north to the sun-soaked south, balmy interior regions and snowy Alpine reaches. Our European neighbour is just a ferry hop, Eurostar ride, tunnel drive, or short flight away. And it provides internationally acclaimed gourmet foods, indigenous cheeses and fine wines – so much so, that French gastronomy has even been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Status.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Aix-en-Provence
La Villa Gallici – Relais & Châteaux

This elegant villa is sure to satisfy the wildest dreams of those who love to surround themselves with luxury. Every inch of this establishment has been created with luxury and style firmly in mind and there are plenty of places to unwind in style here. Taking a stroll through the perfectly manicured gardens while taking in the distant ocean views is the perfect way to unwind in style. Guests will also find a large swimming pool set in a beautiful courtyard and a dining experience that will delight even the most demanding gourmet.
La Villa Gallici – Relais & Châteaux

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille
Les Bords De Mer

Delivering sensational panoramic sea views, the light and breezy Les Bords de Mer is perched directly on the coast and provides guests with plenty of pampering. Guests are treated to private beach access as well as an excellent restaurant where freshly caught seafood is highlighted to mouth-watering effect. This impressive establishment features just 19 rooms and each faces the ocean. Guests will either be provided with their own terrace or balcony to unwind on and this is the perfect place to linger over morning coffee and perhaps a few treats provided by room service before getting ready to explore this stunning seaside paradise.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille
Hôtel C2 – Marseille

Set in a classic town house, this five star boutique hotel features plenty of artwork and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. There are just twelve rooms to choose from here, which are decorated in the minimalistic style and the stylish bar at Hôtel C2 also serves as a chic hangout for local people and visitors alike. The most peaceful rooms are those at the back that face the patio and garden and the garden also boasts an enchanting subterranean spa complete with a whirlpool bath, a hammam and an indoor swimming pool that is carved into the rock.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille
InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu

Set in one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, this 18th century hospital has been extensively renovated to create a luxurious five star hotel. The onsite bar and brasserie is one of the best in the whole of Marseille and is a popular haunt among local people who have a taste for the finer things in life. While the suites that boast Old Port views are impressive, those who want to splurge should select one of the 33 rooms that come complete with a private loggia gallery overlooking the Notre Dame de la Garde.
InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille
Hotel Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port

Perched on the top of a hill providing stunning views of the Mediterranean and Old Port, the Sofitel is set in one of the most stunning spots in the whole of Marseille. Guests are also treated to first rate amenities that are sure to make them feel on top of the world. The Mediterranean-facing rooms come complete with huge balconies where guests can unwind in style while taking advantage of the excellent room service and soaking up the scenery.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Gordes
La Bastide de Gordes

Another medieval jewel to make our list is this property in the Luberon. It’s filled with authentic character. Period lamps, wood panelling, ancestral portraits, chaise longues, roll-top baths, burnished stonework, and vintage floral textiles, make up some of the period features. The building’s 18th-century heritage is echoed not only in the decor but in staff’s period uniform styles. Dine at Peir, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, under ceilings hung with lavender, at the in-house Italian trattoria, or book the rooftop turret and eat under the stars at La Citadelle – the epitome of romance.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Tourrettes
Terre Blanche

The perfect place for a countryside break, this hotel is known for being one of the most prestigious golf resorts in the world. Terre Blanche is set inland, in huge lush grounds with beautiful woodland on the doorstep. Wander the gardens’ paths and you’ll be greeted by the gentle floral and pine aromas of this nature haven. Facilities include indoor and outdoor pools, a 3200m² spa with a hot tub and a steam bath, two 18-hole golf courses, two tennis courts, a fitness centre and a kid’s club – ensuring the whole family is fully catered for. In high season you’ll have a choice of four restaurants and a wealth of activities, sights and tourist attractions to explore nearby.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Beaulieu-sur-Mer
La Réserve de Beaulieu & Spa

Originally a seafood restaurant popular with the well-heeled, you can still enjoy the wonderful culinary fare at La Réserve de Beaulieu, but with the added benefit of a fantastic spa and hotel on site. Found between Monaco and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. This has the air of an aristocratic residence, with Riviera glamour. Decorated in soft pastel tones, the hotel is furnished with delicate baroque antiques and objets d’art. Many rooms offer terraces with sea views. There are two chic beachfront restaurants to choose from, as well as a lounge-style bar.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Aix-en-Provence
Hôtel Le Pigonnet

Imagine starting your day with breakfast in rose gardens, shaded by chestnut trees, listening to the sounds of nature with a warm gentle breeze. This is morning at Hôtel Le Pigonnet. In the Aix-en-Provence area, the 45-room hotel is a converted 18th-century manor house with contemporary interior design. Its claim to fame is that it’s co-owned by Christophe Lambert, the French-American film star, best known for his role in Highlander. Chef Thierry Balligand produces elegant vegetarian and carnivorous menus, with pastry dishes being a particular speciality.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Èze
Château Eza

Perched on a hillside, nestled among medieval buildings, lies this 400-year-old chateau in the south-eastern part of Provence. This is a dream for couples seeking authentic period features and intimacy. Expect stone walls, four-poster beds and fireplaces. It’s almost like holidaying in a fantasy Disney movie. There are just twelve rooms (half with epic sea views), all unique and in different parts of the building. Each turn and flight of stone steps feels like a mini adventure of discovery. In the restaurant and bar, you’ll be treated to Michelin-starred cuisine from chef Axel Wagner, created from local market ingredients – during the day meals can be taken alfresco.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Crillon-le-Brave
Hôtel Crillon le Brave

Just outside Avignon lies this charming village-like hotel complex. Eight restored stone houses are connected by a series of alleyways and courtyards, including a vaulted terraced restaurant, bistro with pretty views of the Dentelles de Montmirail and Mont Ventoux and an outdoor heated pool with sundeck. Rooms feature Provençal features such as exposed beams, terracotta floors and antique furniture. The on-site Spa des Ecuries offers restorative treatments using dreamy Bamford products, from its converted stable home. It’s also pet-friendly and has a superb fine-dining restaurant La Madeleine.

Rhône-Alps, Val dʼIsère
Le Yule Hotel and Spa

With its special ski-to-door access, Le Yule Hotel and Spa offers guests the opportunity to roll out of bed and hit the slopes straight away. Village Ski Lift is located just 200 metres away, while Bellevarde Express Ski Lift is just a 400-metre stroll. Even people who don’t want to try their hands at skiing will find plenty to do here as the large and luxurious spa come with a sauna and steam room, while there is a whole host of spa treatments to choose from. There are 41 rooms in total, with top options including balconies that look out over the slopes.