The Hotel Guru
20 of The Best Luxury Hotels in the South of France

20 of The Best Luxury Hotels in the South of France

The South of France has long been associated with luxury. From the glitterati that frequent Saint Tropez in the summer months to the equally glamorous Cannes. Then, of course, there are those beautiful hidden chateaux, deep in the countryside, that are often converted into the best luxury hotels in the South of France.

The best thing about holidaying in the South of France is the wide choice of accommodation on offer for a luxury traveller. Whether you are planning a trip with the family and need plenty of activities and space or you want a property complete with Michelin starred dining, our gurus have compiled a list to suit everybody's needs.

For a rural break

Hotel Crillon Le Brave is a hilltop hotel in the heart of Provence surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Elegant rooms offer style, views and deep indulgent bath tubs. Expect fine dining on the terrace, drinks by the pool and an indulgent spa. Rural perfection.
Chateau de Berne is a luxurious five star manor farm-cum-chateau on a 1,500-acre private estate of vineyards, also in Provence. Expect chic elegant rooms, exceptional, Michelin starred french cuisine and wine options (many of which come from the estate). With a glorious spa and infinity pool, this is a truly indulgent French escape.
The magnificent Château St. Pierre de Serjac (complete with a vineyard) is set amidst 200 acres of rolling Languedoc countryside. Accommodation includes eight rooms, lovingly decorated in a classic French style and 36 self-catering properties. All achingly stylish.

For a private beach

For some serious glamour Cap Estel is a perfect choice. Located between Nice and Monaco, it's a beautifully converted mansion sitting on a clifftop peninsula. With a gourmet restaurant (Michelin starred), spa, salt-water infinity pool, and its own private beach you will be left wanting for nothing here.
Hotel Belles Rives is a beautiful coastal property set on the Cap d’Antibes. Art deco rooms boast terraces with spectacular views. With its own private stretch of beach and a range of watersports on offer this is a perfect choice for a spoiling beach break.

For five stars

For classic French style and a Riviera setting it does not get much better than Château de la Chèvre d’Or. Featuring elegant rooms, an indulgent spa, and a choice of three restaurants; there's hardly a need to leave!
Les Bories is a sublime five star hotel overlooking the Luberon Valley. Boasting beautiful surrounds, a spoiling spa, and superlative dining. Perfect for a relaxing rural escape.

For foodies

Château Saint-Martin & Spa is a fairytale property set in the hills above St Paul de Vence. Boasting spectacular sea views and interiors that are perfectly rural-chic. The Michelin starred restaurant is the obvious draw, however, there's that superb spa too. A very attractive stay.
Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat has all the elegance and glamour one would expect of a luxury French Riviera stay. With wonderful sea views, an infinity pool and a Michelin starred restaurant, this is a tough one to beat.
La Mirande is an immaculately decorated former Cardinal's mansion in Avignon. The suites have a feel of a bygone era and the acclaimed Michelin starred restaurant draws patrons from far and wide.
La Bastide de Gordes is perched atop the stunning hillside village of Gordes. Louis XV style rooms exude opulence and luxury, whilst the Sisley Paris spa is divine. Pick this property for the Michelin starred restaurant with magnificent views over the Luberon Valley.
While Villa Gallici may not have the Michelin star credentials of others on this list, the restaurant here is one of the best in Aix and is reassuringly popular with locals. The hotel itself is flamboyant and fun, surrounded by Florentine gardens and terraces.
The 19th-century castle with wine estate, Chateau Les Carrasses, has been lovingly turned into a luxurious stay in the Languedoc region. Accommodation ranges from suites to three bed villas with private pools. The food and wine pairing are ever popular as is the Mediterranean Brasserie.

For a wellness retreat

Lily of the Valley is an exclusive retreat set in an enviable position on the French Riviera. The hotel's bespoke suites feel like private residencies and personally tailored wellness programmes ensure a rejuvenating stay.

For families

Chateau des Alpilles is a truly magnificent hotel set in beautiful parkland, not far from St Remy de Provence. Comprising of three buildings; the manor, chapel, and farmhouse. With self-contained apartments offered and ample space, this is perfect for those travelling with children.

For Cannes

Five Seas Hotel offers beautiful rooms, views and superlative food in one of the most luxurious locations in the world. Metres from the beach, yet in the heart of Cannes, this hotel really does have it all. Treatments and massages in Cinq Mondes Spa, delicious food in SeaSens, and a rooftop pool with unbeatable views.

For Nice

The luxurious Negresco Hotel is centrally located in Nice just a short distance from the beach. Offering a VIP stay with opulently decorated rooms and dining in the spectacular two-Michelin starred Le Chantecler restaurant.

For Saint Tropez

This property may not be in the heart of Saint Tropez (in fact it is on a hill just outside) but that is exactly Althoff Hotel Villa Belrose's charm. With romantic suites offering spectacular views over the bay, plenty of space, and a luxury spa this is a very alluring stay.
Simplicity and elegance combine at Muse, a luxury five-star hotel just outside St Tropez. Everything is geared towards relaxation with a spa, a tranquil outdoor pool, a stunning landscaped garden and a superb seafood restaurant.
Lou Pinet is a luxury hotel occupying a picturesque and tranquil spot set back from the coast. Spacious rooms have a retro-cool feel, the building is centred around a glorious pool, and there's a glamorous restaurant. The epitome of Saint Tropez chic.

If you haven’t found your ideal property on our Guru’s list of 20 of the best luxury hotels in the South of France you could:

Fine tune your search and see all our properties in the Cote D'Azur, Cannes, Nice, or St Tropez.
Or refine your search to our recommendations for 15 of the best beach hotels on the Côte d'Azur, or the best hotels in the Côte d'Azur hills.
Still not sure? Then contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
- Althoff Hotel Villa Belrose St-Tropez (Cote d'Azur) 40 rooms from CA$1134
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Total relaxation  -  With a spa, pool, restaurant and bar on-site, this hotel is a great place to unwind and relax on your next holiday
  Honeymoons  -  Book a suite at this luxury hotel for a honeymoon with added indulgence
  Romantic Break  -  Couples love the VIP service at this exclusive hotel and spa
  Sailing  -  Enjoy a sailing trip during your stay at this exclusive hotel; enquire at the hotel regarding boat hire
  Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels
  
  This luxury hotel is nestled on a hill just outside of Saint-Tropez. Rooms have neoclassical soft furnishings with a modern finish; the best suites have a private terrace with views over the bay of Saint-Tropez. Eat in the restaurant or by the pool before booking in at the luxury spa. A VIP retreat. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Cap Estel Eze (Cote d'Azur) 18 rooms from CA$1271
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Swimming Pool  -  Salt-water infinity pool overlooking the sea and Indoor pool
  Beach nearby  -  Private beach.
  Chic
  Outstanding location
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Kiwi Collection
  
  Hugely glamourous Mediterranean mansion on a clifftop peninsula. Stunning views out to sea from private balconies and luxury rooms. Private beach, salt water infinity pool, spa, gourmet food. A pearl of the ocean. Romantic, gourmet, luxury, "A" list. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Château de la Chèvre d’Or Eze (Cote d'Azur) 38 rooms from CA$878
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Romantic Break  -  With breathtaking views over the French Riviera from this hotel, it makes a great romantic setting for a couple's getaway
  Spa breaks  -  With an on-site spa offering a range of high-end treatments, this hotel is a perfect spa break destination
  Foodies  -  Foodies willl swoon at the choice of two gourmet restaurants plus a café and bar at this luxury hotel
  Great walks  -  Discover the beautiful natural setting surrounding the hotel with a long walk; enquire with the hotel for recommended routes
  Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux
  
  This five-star, luxury hotel is located on the beautiful French Riviera. Rooms are dressed in a classical style, with some boasting exposed stone walls and a private balcony; the best suites offer panoramic riviera views. Choose from three eateries before booking in at the spa. An exclusive getaway. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Muse St-Tropez (Ramatuelle) 14 rooms from CA$761
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Total relaxation  -  A small luxurious hotel set in a quiet spot in scenic Ramatuelle, a place to unwind and be pampered.
  Spa  -  La Tente by Spa Village offers a wide range of relaxing treatments to be enjoyed in a tent amid the fragrant gardens
  Great walks  -  Take a stroll from the hotel to Eglise de St Tropez and enjoy the lovely views.
  Local markets  -  Peruse the Place des Lices market and buy local produce and antiques.
  
  Simplicity and elegance combine at this luxurious five-star hotel just outside St Tropez. Everything is geared towards relaxation with deluxe rooms, a tranquil outdoor pool, a stunning landscaped garden and a superb seafood restaurant. Perfect for a romantic break. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Château Saint-Martin & Spa Saint-Paul-de-Vence (Cote d'Azur) 46 rooms from CA$717
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Honeymoons  -  An enchanting fariytale hotel with charming suites, private balconies with spectacular views of the sea.
  Foodies  -  There are several fantastic restaurants including the Michelin starred Saint Martin.
  Tennis  -  Enjoy a game of tennis on the hotel courts, the perfect way to pass the morning.
  Sights nearby  -  Close to the Chapelle du Rosaire de Vence, a church designed by Henri Matisse.
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection, Relais & Chateaux, Fodors
  
  A fairytale chateau in the hills, with coastal views. Boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant and luxury spa. The classically sumptuous suites with balconies and private villas encapsulate French country chic. Luxury and tranquillity with fine dining. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Lou Pinet St-Tropez 34 rooms from CA$572
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Total relaxation  -  Occupying a tranquil spot just outside St Tropez complete with a spa and glorious swimming pool to lounge beside
  Local markets  -  Head to the Place de Lices and purchase local produce (markets every Tuesday and Saturday)
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A chic St Tropez hotel occupying a picturesque and tranquil spot set back from the coast. Retro rooms are spacious and bright with pops of colour breaking up the whitewashed walls, plenty of light, and indulgent bathrooms. A large swimming pool is a real draw as is the glamorous restaurant. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Lily of the Valley Ramatuelle (Quartier de Gigaro) 44 rooms from CA$1097
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Active Holiday  -  With a huge wellness village dedicated to sports, fitness and health, this hotel is perfect for guests looking to keep active
  Beach Life  -  Set a stone's throw from the fine sands of Gigaro Beach and the Mediterranean, this hotel makes a luxury seaside getaway
  Hideaway  -  Set on Gigaro Hill, away from the hustel and bustle of St Tropez, book this hotel for your next hideaway holiday
  Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
  
  This exclusive retreat is nestled between the French Riviera and St Tropez. The hotel's bespoke suites feel like private residences, with oversized, open-plan bedrooms which play with texture, contrasting exotic wood, leather and concrete. Book onto a tailored wellness program during your stay. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Five Seas Hotel Cannes 45 rooms from CA$275
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Restaurant  -  2 restaurants. Sea Sens has 1 Michelin star, run by chef Arnaud Tabarec
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Spa  -  Spa By Cinq Mondes has 4 treatment rooms with a range of services on offer
  Swimming Pool  -  13m stainless steel rooftop infinity pool, offering stunning views
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Beautiful rooms, views and food in one of the most luxurious locations in the world. Metres from the beach, yet in the heart of Cannes, this hotel really does have it all. Treatments and massages in Cinq Mondes, delicious food in SeaSens, and a rooftop pool with views to stun one and all. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Grand Hotel du Cap-Ferrat Saint Jean Cap Ferrat (06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat) 73 rooms from CA$1358
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Romantic Break  -  In a stunning location, surrounded by romantic gardens and terraces, this is an ideal spot for a luxurious getaway for two
  Foodies  -  Enjoy stunning Mediterranean cuisine at Le Cap Restaurant which boasts 1 Michelin star
  Sights nearby  -  Head to the villas of Santo Sospir and Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, as interesting as they are magnificent
  Swimming Pool  -  Stunning saltwater infinity pool that literally hangs above the Med, plus another indoor pool in the spa
  
  Luxury hotel which oozes sunny decadence. Contemporary interiors retain their art deco features and its quintessential Riviera character, with grand high ceilings, arches and colonnades; while light-filled rooms have a fresh palette and tasteful decor. The Michelin starred restaurant seals the deal! See More
  
  Check Availability
- Hotel Belles Rives Juan-les-Pins (Cap d'Antibes) 42 rooms from CA$514
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Beach Life  -  Located on the seafront and with its own private stretch of beach, this hotel is a great base for a relaxed seaside holiday
  Romantic Break  -  The beautiful cove setting and high-end facilities at this hotel make it a great base for a romantic getaway
  Families  -  The idyllic ottage is perfect for families travelling with children, or Junior suites sleep four.
  Local markets  -  Get an early start with a trip to the Cours Saleya Flower Market, a traditional flower market
  Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels
  
  This five-star hotel is located on the Cap d’Antibes on the exclusive Côte d'Azur. Rooms are dressed in an Art Deco style with luxurious prints and unique design pieces; the best have a terrace with sea views. There is a self-catering cottage for groups plus 3 hotel restaurants and bars; a VIP stay. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Negresco Hotel Nice 125 rooms from CA$211
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Sights nearby  -  Visit Promenade du Paillon or the Ancient Fort of Mont Boron
  Great walks  -  Take a lesiurely stroll arounf the Albert 1st Gardens
  Opulent
  Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
  Recommended by  -  Fodors, Frommers, Michelin Travel
  
  The luxurious Negresco Hotel is centrally located in Nice, a short distance from the beach. Feel like a VIP in their opulently decorated and spacious rooms which fuse antique furniture with bright colours-a unique experience! Be sure to try their Michelin 2* Le Chantecler restaurant. A divine stay! See More
  
  Check Availability
- La Mirande Avignon 21 rooms from CA$673
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Historic  -  The 14th-century building was originally a cardinal's residence and the original grandeur still very much remains
  Foodies  -  The gourmet restaurant offers a five-course tasting menu which uses regional and seasonal produce
  Families  -  With painting and art classes arranged for children, this is a surprisingly family friendly stay
  Local exploring  -  Couldn't be better placed, right by Palais des Papes and 200 yards from the banks of the Rhone
  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Frommers, Kiwi Collection
  
  An immaculately decorated and furnished former Cardinal's mansion in the city center. The suites will transport you back to another time with parquet floors, bold wallpapers, and sumptuous beds. Sit out in the sculpture filled courtyard enjoying the Michelin-starred cuisine. Chic and sophisticated. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Villa Gallici Aix-en-Provence 23 rooms from CA$410
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Foodies  -  Haute Cuisine in an elegant and exuberant setting, think pan fried foie gras and an antique armchair!
  Hotel Entertainment  -  Spend a evening at the chic bar sipping on dangeroursly good cocktails and listening to jazz
  Sights nearby  -  Right in the centre of town you are a few minutes walk from the beautiful Aix Cathedral
  Local markets  -  Just a short stroll down the road to Place des Prêcheurs brings you to the local market
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Relais & Chateaux
  
  A flamboyant hotel surrounded by Florentine gardens, terraces, and large pool. Lavish fabrics and a healthy smattering of bold wallpaper give a over wrought luxurious feel to the suites. The restaurant is one of the best in Aix and always full of locals. Romantic and pampering, for a special treat. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Hotel Crillon le Brave Crillon le Brave, Provence 34 rooms from CA$468
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Foodies  -  The spectacular cusine is locally and sustainably sourced — reflected in the unbeatable flavour and understanding of ingredients
  Honeymoons  -  You could not find a more romantic or picturesque spot — plus the village set up lends a private feel to the rooms
  Total relaxation  -  Lounge by the pool and soak up the breathtaking views, pamper in the spa or gorge in the restaurant- utter heaven!
  Local markets  -  In typical French style, each local village has a market day, ask at the front desk for details
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Relais & Chateaux, Tablet
  
  A hilltop hotel in the heart of Provence surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Elegant rooms offer style, views and soak baths. Fine dining on the terrace and a drink by the pool. Guests are enticed by the spa; the local charm and romantic feel about the place. A beautiful and memorable stay. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Les Bories Gordes 33 rooms from CA$468
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Spa breaks  -  The spa offers a wide range of body and facial treatments as well as offering a sauna, Turkish bath, and relaxation room
  Total relaxation  -  Luxuriate in the extensive spa, feast on fantastic food on leafy terraces and unwind in the elegant suites
  Hotel Entertainment  -  Wander the extensive and fragrant grounds, lounge by the lovely pool or steam yourself in the sauna
  Foodies  -  The gourmet restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star and serves exemplary regional cuisine
  Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels
  
  A sublime five star hotel, nestled amidst groves of olive trees, cypresses, oaks and lavender. Combining a magnificent setting looking out over the Luberon Valley with all the creature comforts of a top class hotel, Les Bories really hits the mark. A haven of relaxation. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Le Chateau des Alpilles Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Provence 21 rooms from CA$351
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Families  -  The Cypress farm has been renovated into an apartment and a loft, ideal for families, couples or groups of friends
  Garden  -  Beautiful parklands covering four hectares — stroll through the Magnolia and Biloba trees
  Foodies  -  There are two very good gourmet restaurants showcasing Mediterranean and Provencal flavours
  Honeymoons  -  The Chape is a romantic hideaway with two rooms — perfect for honeymooners
  Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels
  
  A truly magnificent hotel set in parklands. Choose from three buildings: the Manor, the Cypress Farm, and the Chapel. All are immaculately decorated in muted tones with sophisticated furnishings and private terraces. There are pools and two gourmet restaurants. Romantic but family-friendly. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Château de Berne Lorgues, Provence 27 rooms from CA$395
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Country Escape  -  A lovely chateau in the heart of Provence's wine country, set in a 491 hectare forest with fragrant gardens and a swimming pool
  Spa breaks  -  Situated overlooking the vines and olive groves and boasting hot tubs, a sauna, steam room, sun lounge and relaxation space
  Foodies  -  With a Michelin Starred restaurant and a cookery school on site — this is a foodie heaven!
  Wine tasting  -  The chateau is particularly well known for its rosé and red wines
  Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux
  
  Luxurious five-star manor farm-cum-chateau on a 1,500-acre private estate of vineyards. Chic elegant rooms in gentle hues and flooded with light. Exceptional french cuisine and wine options many coming from the estate. Glorious spa and infinity pool. A truly indulgent french escape. See More
  
  Check Availability
- La Bastide de Gordes Gordes 40 rooms from CA$285
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Foodies  -  Foodies will not be disappointed with the wide range of eateries on offer here from fine dining to Asian fusion
  Romantic Break  -  Situated in one of France's most picturesque villages, it's perfect for a romantic weekend away.
  Restaurant  -  There are five restaurants to choose from including fine dining, Asian and Italian
  Sights nearby  -  Stunning medieval village of Gordes is 5 minutes walk away.
  
  Perched atop the stunning hillside village of Gordes, comes a spectacular hotel to match its surroundings. Louis XV style rooms exude opulence and luxury, whilst the Sisley Paris spa is divine. Dine in a Michelin starred restaurant with magnificent views over the Luberon valley. A hilltop wonder. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Château Les Carrasses Capestang (Quarante) 28 rooms from CA$218
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Families  -  With private villas and pools, babysitting services and activities based around the mini farm it is great for families
  Kids Club  -  The seasonal kids club bases most of its activities around the mini farm and its animals
  Great walks  -  There are some great walks through the Languedoc countryside.
  Tennis  -  There are tennis courts on site for guests to use.
  
  A 19th-century castle with wine estate, lovingly turned into a luxurious stay. Accommodation ranges from studios to three bed villas with private pools. All decorated in a modern yet unmistakably French style. Très chic. The food and wine pairing is popular as is the Mediterranean Brasserie. See More
  
  Check Availability
  Hotel Website
- Château St. Pierre de Serjac Puissalicon, Herault 93 rooms from CA$293
  
  See more photos
  
  Add to shortlist
  
  Great walks  -  Plenty of scenic walking routes leading directly from the property through the Languedoc vineyards and countryside
  Spa  -  Cinq Mondes Spa with treatment rooms, sauna, hot tub, pool, and hammam
  Local markets  -  Check out the excellent, bustling weekly market in Pezenas
  Swimming Pool  -  Stunning outdoor infinity pool and indoor pool in the spa
  
  A magnificent Château with vineyard set amidst 200 acres of rolling countryside. Accommodation includes eight rooms, lovingly decorated in a classic French style and 36 self-catering properties. All achingly stylish. Fine dining restaurant, spa, indoor and outdoor pools. The list goes on! See More
  
  Check Availability
  Hotel Website