The South of France, with its sun-drenched landscapes, azure coastlines, and rich cultural heritage, offers a plethora of extraordinary accommodations. From luxurious coastal retreats to charming rustic hideaways, this region caters to every traveller’s dream. Whether you’re seeking the glamour of the French Riviera or the tranquillity of Provençal countryside, the perfect stay awaits you in this enchanting corner of the world.
Luxurious riviera retreats: St-Tropez to monaco
The French Riviera, known locally as the Côte d’Azur, is synonymous with luxury and glamour. This stunning coastline, stretching from St-Tropez to Monaco, boasts some of the most opulent accommodations in Europe. Here, you’ll find world-class hotels that cater to discerning travellers and celebrities alike, offering unparalleled service and breathtaking Mediterranean views.
Hôtel byblos: celebrity haven in St-Tropez
Nestled in the heart of St-Tropez, Hôtel Byblos has been a playground for the rich and famous since its opening in 1967. This iconic establishment exudes Provençal charm while offering modern luxuries. With its village-like layout, the hotel features 91 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated to reflect the vibrant spirit of the French Riviera.
The hotel’s crowning jewel is the Byblos Beach, a private stretch of sand where you can soak up the St-Tropez sun in style. For those seeking nightlife, the on-site Les Caves du Roy nightclub is legendary, having hosted countless A-list celebrities over the decades.
Grand-hôtel du Cap-Ferrat: four seasons elegance
Perched on the tip of the picturesque Cap-Ferrat peninsula, the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel, is the epitome of French Riviera luxury. This palatial white mansion, set amidst 17 acres of lush gardens, offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean that will take your breath away.
The hotel features 49 rooms and 24 suites, all exquisitely designed with a blend of classic French style and contemporary elegance. The crown jewel is undoubtedly the Villa Rose-Pierre , a private four-bedroom villa with its own pool and dedicated staff, offering the ultimate in exclusive accommodation.
Hôtel de paris Monte-Carlo: iconic monégasque opulence
In the heart of Monaco, the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo stands as a beacon of luxury and refinement. This Belle Époque masterpiece, originally opened in 1864, has undergone extensive renovations to offer guests the perfect blend of historical charm and modern amenities.
The hotel boasts 207 rooms and suites, including the exceptional Princess Grace Suite, a two-floor penthouse with a private pool and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Dining options include the three-Michelin-starred Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse, where culinary excellence meets unparalleled service.
Provençal charm: rustic elegance in rural settings
While the Riviera offers glitz and glamour, the rural areas of Provence provide a different kind of luxury – one rooted in authenticity, tranquillity, and natural beauty. Here, you’ll find exquisite properties that blend seamlessly with their surroundings, offering a taste of the idyllic Provençal lifestyle.
La bastide de gordes: luberon valley splendour
Perched atop the rocky outcrop of one of France’s most beautiful villages, La Bastide de Gordes offers unparalleled views of the Luberon Valley. This 18th-century mansion has been transformed into a luxurious retreat that perfectly captures the essence of Provence.
With 40 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated with antiques and local artworks, the hotel exudes rustic elegance. The terraced gardens, complete with a stunning infinity pool, provide the perfect setting for admiring the Provençal landscape. The Sisley Spa offers a range of treatments inspired by local ingredients , including lavender and olive oil.
Château de la chèvre d’or: èze village panoramas
Clinging to the cliffs of the medieval village of Èze, Château de la Chèvre d’Or offers some of the most spectacular views on the Côte d’Azur. This unique property comprises several buildings scattered throughout the village, connected by winding cobblestone streets and fragrant gardens.
The hotel features 45 rooms and suites, each offering a different perspective of the Mediterranean. Dining options include the two-Michelin-starred La Chèvre d’Or restaurant, where innovative cuisine is served against a backdrop of stunning sea views.
Crillon le brave: mont ventoux countryside retreat
Nestled in the heart of Provence, at the foot of Mont Ventoux, Crillon le Brave is a haven of tranquillity. This unique hotel comprises a collection of centuries-old stone houses, transformed into a luxurious retreat that blends seamlessly with the surrounding village.
With just 34 rooms and suites, the hotel offers an intimate experience, allowing guests to truly immerse themselves in the Provençal way of life. The property features a stunning outdoor pool, a spa offering treatments using local products, and a gastronomic restaurant showcasing the best of regional cuisine.
Coastal getaways: beachfront bliss on the mediterranean
The Mediterranean coastline of Southern France offers some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Here, you’ll find exceptional properties that provide direct access to pristine shores, allowing you to fully embrace the laid-back coastal lifestyle of the region.
La réserve ramatuelle: secluded Saint-Tropez peninsula
Just a stone’s throw from Saint-Tropez, La Réserve Ramatuelle offers a secluded retreat away from the bustling town centre. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean, this modern hotel provides a perfect blend of luxury and tranquillity.
The property features 28 rooms and 14 villas, all designed in a sleek, contemporary style that complements the natural surroundings. The highlight is undoubtedly the 800-square-metre spa , offering a range of treatments focused on anti-aging and overall wellbeing. The hotel’s private beach, accessible via a short shuttle ride, provides a serene spot for sunbathing and swimming.
Hôtel les roches rouges: modernist marvel in Saint-Raphaël
Situated between Saint-Raphaël and Agay, Hôtel Les Roches Rouges is a stunning example of modernist architecture set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean. This adults-only hotel offers a sophisticated and tranquil environment for those seeking a peaceful coastal retreat.
The hotel features 50 rooms and suites, all offering sea views and decorated in a minimalist style that allows the natural beauty of the surroundings to take centre stage. The property boasts two swimming pools, including a natural seawater pool carved into the coastal rock, providing a unique swimming experience.
Cap d’antibes beach hotel: Juan-les-Pins waterfront luxury
Located on a private beach between Antibes and Juan-les-Pins, the Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel offers a contemporary take on Côte d’Azur luxury. This boutique property, with just 35 rooms and suites, provides an intimate setting for a beach getaway.
Each room features a private terrace or garden, many with direct sea views. The hotel’s Beach Club offers a range of water sports activities, while the Michelin-starred restaurant Les Pêcheurs serves exquisite seafood dishes with panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Urban sophistication: City-Centre accommodations
The cities of Southern France offer a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. Here, you’ll find luxurious hotels that provide easy access to urban attractions while offering a tranquil retreat from the bustling city life.
Intercontinental marseille – hotel dieu: Vieux-Port vistas
Housed in a historic 18th-century hospital building, the InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu offers a unique blend of history and modern luxury. Overlooking Marseille’s iconic Vieux-Port, this hotel provides unparalleled views of the city and the Mediterranean beyond.
The property features 194 rooms and suites, all elegantly decorated with a nod to the building’s rich history. The Clarins spa offers a range of treatments inspired by Mediterranean wellness traditions , while the Michelin-starred restaurant Alcyone showcases the best of Provençal cuisine.
La villa gallici: Aix-en-Provence boutique experience
Nestled in a quiet residential area just a short walk from the centre of Aix-en-Provence, La Villa Gallici offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city. This 18th-century Provençal mansion has been transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel, surrounded by fragrant gardens.
With just 22 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated in a sumptuous Provençal style, the hotel offers an intimate and exclusive experience. The property features a beautiful outdoor pool set amidst manicured gardens, and a gourmet restaurant serving refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Le negresco: nice’s belle époque landmark
Standing proudly on the Promenade des Anglais, Le Negresco is an iconic symbol of Nice and the French Riviera. This Belle Époque masterpiece, with its distinctive pink dome, has been a favourite among royalty, celebrities, and discerning travellers since 1913.
The hotel features 125 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated with a mix of period furniture and modern amenities. The property houses an impressive art collection spanning five centuries of French history. Dining options include the Michelin-starred Le Chantecler, offering haute cuisine in an opulent setting.
Hidden gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path lodgings
For those seeking a truly unique experience away from the well-trodden tourist paths, Southern France offers a selection of hidden gems. These exceptional properties provide an authentic taste of local life while maintaining the highest standards of luxury and comfort.
Domaine de murtoli: corsican coastal wilderness
While technically part of Corsica, the Domaine de Murtoli deserves mention for its exceptional offering. Set on a 2,500-hectare estate in southern Corsica, this unique property comprises 20 restored shepherd’s houses, each offering complete privacy and stunning views of the Mediterranean.
The domaine offers a range of activities, from horseback riding and golf to fishing and beach lounging. The on-site organic farm provides fresh ingredients for the property’s three restaurants , offering a true farm-to-table experience in a breathtaking setting.
La colombe d’or: Saint-Paul-de-Vence artistic legacy
In the heart of the medieval village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, La Colombe d’Or is more than just a hotel – it’s a living museum. This family-run establishment has been a favourite haunt of artists for decades, with works by Picasso, Matisse, and Chagall adorning its walls.
The hotel features just 13 rooms and 12 suites, each unique and filled with art and antiques. The property’s lush garden, complete with a swimming pool overlooked by a monumental Calder mobile, provides a tranquil retreat. The restaurant, with its terrace shaded by century-old plane trees, is a local institution.
Château de berne: lorgues wine estate immersion
Set amidst 1,235 acres of pristine Provençal countryside, Château de Berne offers a luxurious retreat centred around wine. This 18th-century château, surrounded by vineyards and forests, provides an authentic immersion into the world of Provençal winemaking.
The hotel features 27 rooms and suites, all elegantly decorated in a contemporary Provençal style. The property boasts extensive facilities, including a spa, two swimming pools, tennis courts, and numerous hiking trails. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the cellar tours and tastings, as well as the opportunity to participate in wine-making workshops.
Sustainable stays: Eco-Friendly options in southern france
As environmental consciousness grows, many travellers are seeking accommodations that prioritize sustainability without compromising on comfort and luxury. Southern France offers several exceptional properties that combine eco-friendly practices with high-end hospitality.
Mas de la fouque: camargue nature reserve ecolodge
Located in the heart of the Camargue Nature Reserve, Mas de la Fouque offers a unique eco-luxury experience. This former sheep farm has been transformed into a sustainable retreat that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
The hotel features 26 rooms and suites, all designed with natural materials and decorated in a style that reflects the rugged beauty of the Camargue. The property uses solar energy and implements water conservation measures , while the restaurant serves locally-sourced, organic cuisine. Guests can explore the surrounding wetlands, home to pink flamingos and wild horses, through guided eco-tours.
La grée des landes: yves rocher Eco-Spa resort
While not in the traditional South of France, this eco-spa resort in Brittany is worth mentioning for its exceptional commitment to sustainability. Created by the Yves Rocher brand, La Grée des Landes is a pioneer in eco-friendly luxury hospitality.
The hotel features 40 rooms and suites, all constructed using sustainable materials and powered by renewable energy. The property’s restaurant serves organic, locally-sourced cuisine, much of it grown in the on-site permaculture gardens. The spa offers treatments using Yves Rocher’s plant-based products, providing a holistic wellness experience in harmony with nature.
Les domaines de fontenille: organic vineyard accommodation
Situated in the Luberon Regional Nature Park, Les Domaines de Fontenille offers a luxurious eco-retreat centred around organic wine production. This 18th-century bastide has been carefully restored to preserve its historical character while incorporating modern, sustainable practices.
The hotel features 19 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated with a mix of antique and contemporary furnishings. The property’s 35 hectares of vineyards are cultivated using organic and biodynamic methods, and guests can participate in wine tastings and vineyard tours. The Michelin-starred restaurant showcases the estate’s wines alongside dishes prepared with ingredients from the organic kitchen garden.