Best Luxury Hotels in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

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 are 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.

This boutique hotel and restaurant has been enchanting guests for decades with its unique character and views of the Med. Step into a world of timeless beauty as you enter the historic building, where each room exudes a sense of understated luxury. Situated just steps away from the vibrant Old Port and cobbled streets, the setting invites guests to bask in the sunshine on nearby sandy beaches, explore the markets, or simply relax. For those seeking a little tranquil among St Tropez’s high-octane glamour, the hotel has a serene courtyard where you can unwind amidst greenery and the soothing sound of a trickling fountain. Indulge in a pampering massage, tuck into Provencal cuisine, or take a leisurely dip in the secluded pool to complete your relaxation.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.