Most famous for the glitzy Côte d'Azur, the Alpes-Maritimes départment also boasts charming mountain villages and superb ski slopes. For those eager to immerse themselves in the tranquil majesty of the hills, our Gurus have put together a selection of off-the-beaten-track properties. If it’s hiking, cycling and skiing that you’re after, these really are the best places to stay in the Alpes-Maritimes.
Part of the Western Alps, this region has a long history — which includes being part of Italy. As a result, visitors can expect a warm and welcoming Italian influence when it comes to the culture, food and architecture of the area’s communities. The ski resorts of Isola 2000, Valberg and Auron are winter holiday favourites for active travellers of all ages, whilst the rocky, forested mountains offer superb biking, trekking, horse riding and rock climbing during the warmer months. Don't miss the Mercantour National Park if you're in the area!
For a flavour of both the mountains and the coast, consider staying somewhere to the south — like Saint-Paul-de-Vence or Le Bar-sur-Loup, close to the dramatic Loup Gorge. Although further from the coast, the best places to stay in the Alpes-Maritimes are perfect for outdoorsy types eager to soak up the magic of the mountains in a less-explored part of France.
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Grasse
An excellent restaurant with rooms in a quaint village just outside Grasse. Four simple, traditionally styled rooms offer superb value for money in this pricey region. Come here for the delicious Mediterranean cuisine and the stunning views over Mougins towards the coast.
Grasse (Cote d'Azur)
An intimate and charming B&B just outside Grasse, with simple spacious rooms, gorgeous heated outdoor pool and terrace, superb breakfast and panoramic views. A great value property for total relaxation in a quiet spot away from the coast
Peillon
Enchanting family-run inn perched on a cliff-edge high above the Med, with fabulous views. Fantastic on site restaurant serves locally grown produce to the highest standard. Simple rooms with private balconies boast spectacular views of the orchards and olive groves. Romantic.
Alpes-Maritimes
A charming hotel just 15 minutes from La Colmiane Ski Station, in the heart of Mercantour Park. The cosy vibe is enhanced by rustic furniture that complements the mountain views. Guests can expect a family-style restaurant, and easy access to local shops. Ideal for an activity-focused holiday.
Alpes-Maritimes (Route de Barcelonette)
Stunning chateau with panoramic views of the hills and mountains around, and a few miles from ski resorts and a National Park. Steeped in luxury from the rooms to the food to the beautiful grounds with a swimming pool. A luxurious pad for an active holiday.
Antibes
A chic contemporary property right on the waterfront. Large glass-fronted windows unfurl impressive views. Simple white on white design with splashes of colour from the modern art. A trendy brasserie with creative Mediterranean cuisine. A spoiling spa. A real treat at surprisingly affordable rates.
Antibes (Cote d'Azur)
A charming hotel at the entrance to the old town of Antibes. Romantic rooms in dusky pinks and soft greens are comfortable and cosy; some with cute balconies. There's an elegant bar and tea room where you can sit and watch the world go by. A low-key spot to get a flavour of the French Riviera.
Saint Jean Cap Ferrat
An Italianate villa hotel on Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, only ten km from Nice and Monaco. The simple traditional rooms open onto charming flower-filled terraces with glorious views. A green oasis of calm two minutes walk from beautiful Riviera beaches.
Alpes-Maritimes (Château-Arnoux-Saint-Auban)
A traditional hotel in a 17th century house. Rooms are elegant with drapes, parquet floors and hill views. Garden, terrace, an outdoor pool, and bicycles are available from hotel. Lovely regional cuisine in the hotel's two restaurants. Opulent, warm and welcoming.
Le Bar-sur-Loup
A luxury B&B boasting a fabulous location boasting epic mountainous Provençal panoramas. Housing just four immaculately styled rooms which mix modern comforts with traditional charm. With a large swimming pool, a terrace to play Petanque and stunning walks this is a Provençal dream.
Antibes (Cote d'Azur)
An adorable hotel with rustic charm. An intimate sanctuary with an orange scented courtyard and comfortable bedrooms in pastels and mauves. A lovely and friendly hotel suitable for those looking for something more understated in this glamourous region!
Juan-les-Pins
Hôtel La Villa provides smart, elegant accommodation just minutes from the beach. Bedrooms are spacious and decorated in natural palettes with unique, modern features and large comfortable beds. En suite bathrooms feature seemingly bottomless baths. Laze by the pool with a glass of local bubbly.
Juan-les-Pins (Cote d'Azur)
A pretty property set near the coast in Juan les Pins. Rooms are styled in a neutral palette for a calm vibe and most suites have a private terrace overlooking the garden - a gorgeous Mediterranean space filled with lemon, orange & olive trees and a pool. Great restaurant. A smart Riviera pad.
Isola 2000 (Alpes Maritimes)
A luxury hotel with stunning mountain views and a relaxed alpine vibe. It's comfortable and warm inside, with its own rustic charm, creating a cosy atmosphere. Guests can expect excellent apres ski amenities including a spa, gourmet restaurant, and steam room. A lovely pick in the southern alps.
Grasse
Eighteenth century country house in Grasse, surrounded by lovely gardens and olive groves. The romantic rooms are a triumph: simple, stylish and effortlessly elegant. The on site restaurant is famed in the area for its astute use of local flavours. Grown up, charming and wonderfully French!
Juan-les-Pins
A small contemporary five star hotel boasting an enviable location on the picturesque coastline. Chic rooms feature floor to ceiling windows, large sunny terraces and simple modern furniture. Boasting a fabulous fine-dining Gallic restaurant and a minimalist bar. A smart beach break.
Juan-les-Pins (Cote d'Azur)
This five-star hotel in Cap d'Antibes dates back to the 1930s and has hosted a range of famous artists. Rooms are dressed in a chic, Art Deco style with luxurious linens and separate bathtub. The best suites have a private terrace with panoramic views. Eat at the terrace restaurant; a luxury stay.
Juan-les-Pins (Cap d'Antibes)
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.
Eze
This centuries old château in the heart of picturesque Eze boasts outstanding views over the French Riviera. Just minutes from its private beach, enjoy 5 star luxury in the Côte D'Azur. Rooms are spacious, stylish and elegant. Come for the Michelin-star dining & glorious location.
Saint Jean Cap Ferrat (Côte d'Azur)
This luxury resort is located in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat on the exclusive Côte d'Azur. Rooms are individually designed and are split across the main building and the Orangerie. Most have a private terrace or balcony with sea, mountain or garden views. Unwind at the poolside bar at this elegant hotel.
Eze (Cote d'Azur)
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.
Eze (Cote d'Azur)
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.
Saint Jean Cap Ferrat (06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat)
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!
