4 Best Hotels in South France

The South of France is a huge region that stretches from glamorous beach resorts (Saint-Tropez, Cannes, and Saint-Raphaël) to bustling metropolises (Avignon, Marseille) and sleepy inland towns nestled between rugged mountains and olive orchards.

Here is our selection of the best places to stay in the region to help you plan your next trip:

1. The Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel

It’s a major undertaking—a six-year hotel renovation that includes two and a half years of total shutdown. Because of this, when the century-old grande dame of the Boulevard de la Croisette eventually threw open her doors in spring 2023 to reveal an incredible renovation, people were lining up to have a peek. However, there’s more. The Carlton, formerly known as the Regent Hotel, has rebranded itself and is now a neo-resort with attractions that extend beyond the grand foyer with its marble columns and exquisitely renovated tea room. Part of the attraction is the large peristyle garden courtyard and the striking infinity pool, which doubles as a skating rink in the winter.

In addition, there’s the stunning Le C-Club Spa, which offers customized holistic massages and Dr. Barbara Sturm treatments. There’s also a state-of-the-art training facility with a boxing ring where you can spar with a personal trainer. Swimmers might prefer taking a dip in the azure Mediterranean and lounging on a sunbed at Carlton’s beach, which exudes luxury straight out of To Catch a Thief. The renovated sea-view rooms upstairs feature a carefree, beachy vibe. Additionally, there are enormous penthouses for glamorous movie mogul parties and expansive seventh-floor signature suites. When the sun goes down, patrons head to the cosy Bar 58 for their distinctive drinks (try the tequila old-fashioned, loaded with agave and bitter chocolate), then head to the recently opened Rüya for delicious cuisine in the Anatolian manner.

2. La Nauve Hotel & Jardin

Henri IV of France was a Bourbon, yet he liked cognac. The Charente, which passes through the city, is the most beautiful river in his realm, he said. Therefore, La Nauve Hotel & Jardin, which has an especially lovely location on the riverbanks, would undoubtedly win the good king’s approval. Adorned by two similarly antique outbuildings on either side, this stunning 19th-century neoclassical home is bordered by twelve emerald green acres that will only grow more beautiful with time.

While the hotel was being built, a large portion of the garden was redecorated and replanted. Although it looks amazing now, the climbing plants that are taking over the trellises beside the water lily pond promise even more picturesque views as they develop. Currently, there are twelve rooms, with four in the smaller of the two outbuildings and eight in the main villa. The interior design is quaintly diverse. There’s a fascinating touch of the Alps throughout the building, even with the large amounts of glossy marble and the enchanting, opulent Venetian chandeliers in the foyer.

3. Hotel Martinez: The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

It may seem daunting to find a large palace hotel located in the centre of La Croisette, the Cannes waterfront avenue lined with opulent shops and hotels. Yes, Pierre-Yves Rochon’s Art Deco design, which features soft blues and whites and was also responsible for the Savoy in London and the Hotel George V in Paris, is as gorgeous as they come. Two of Europe’s largest penthouses are located on the seventh floor, so you may see movie directors or A-list celebrities getting out of a Bentley in front and being escorted away by immaculately attired personnel. There are two restaurants (one of which holds the distinction of being the only two-Michelin-starred establishment in the city), a bar, a bustling beach club, an excellent spa, and a garden where guests may unwind by the pool. This is a classic hotel that is constantly evolving.  

4. Le Moulin

This well-placed, traditional-meets-modern village property provides the perfect fusion of classic rural charm with stylish, on-trend décor. The hotel’s characteristic sky-blue shutters and ivy-covered stone walls beckon visitors inside, where the cosy atmosphere is carried through to the furnishings and customer service. There are art pieces, pottery, and wildflowers scattered throughout the creamy, curving rooms. Additionally, there are remnants of the building’s previous use as an oil mill, such as the press located in the dining room. Supper is served on the rose-covered patio outdoors, and you can stop by the epicerie across the street to pick up some locally made snacks to enjoy in your room. Apéro is served on the street-side terrace. Whether it’s helping to carry baggage up those steps, directing them to the Sunday market in L’Isle sur la Sorgue, or unlocking a free bike so they can ride about the hamlet, everyone here tries to help out. Dinner should always include the handmade fougasse cooked in olive oil!

Conclusion

Whether you see yourself sipping wine in Bordeaux, admiring the scenery from your upscale hotel in Paris, or enjoying a swim in the glistening French Riviera, France is a place where you can pick your trip. How about completing all three? All you have to do is pack your bag after choosing from our list of the greatest boutique hotels, opulent villas, and beach resorts in France (of course, leaving room for a few alcoholic souvenirs.). For more updates visit www.gurucent.com.

FAQs: