The Cote d’Azur is known as a fashionable place of top services, the most luxurious hotels, Michelin restaurants, a gathering place for the most expensive yachts, and the world’s jet set. we recently toured this top spot and bring you our pick of some of the most luxurious hotels on the French Riviera.
Airelles Saint-Tropez, Château de la Messardière
The Airelles Hotel de la Messardière stands as a luxurious castle nestled in a natural paradise near the coast of Saint Tropez. This hotel underwent a complete renovation in 2021, resulting in a unique blend of Oriental, Anglomaresque, Mediterranean, and Provençal styles that flawlessly merge historical charm with contemporary elegance. Boasting a well-deserved 5-star rating, the hotel offers a magnificent total of 75 rooms and 40 suites, all featuring captivating views of the vineyard, garden, or sea. The rooms are adorned in vibrant pastel shades of yellow and orange, complemented by stunning terracotta floors. Ranging from 25m2 to 40m2, each room exudes unparalleled comfort. Guests can savor Mediterranean-style dinners by the sea at the Trois Saison restaurant, and the hotel boasts various other delightful amenities. Notably, the renowned pastry chef Cedric Grolet has recently joined the Airelles Château de la Messardière team. Furthermore, the hotel houses the luxurious Valmont spa, complete with a pool, sauna, steam bath, indoor pool, and fitness facilities. Lastly, the breathtaking castle and its estate offer an ideal setting for unforgettable romantic weddings.
Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel
The Grandiose Carlton 5-star Hotel in Cannes stands as an iconic presence in the French Riviera. Situated in the heart of the renowned Croisette promenade, this hotel, built in 1911 in belle époque style, boasts 332 luxurious rooms and 53 suites. Indulge in the offerings of the Riviera restaurant, Ruya restaurant, Carlton Beach Club, Bar 58, and Camelia tea lounge. With a superb spa and fitness center, as well as an interior garden featuring a swimming pool and bar, the hotel provides the perfect environment for ultimate luxurious relaxation.
Hôtel Martinez – The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
The Martinez Hotel in Cannes is a prestigious 5-star luxury hotel situated on the Croisette and is a part of the esteemed Hyatt hotel chain. Since its opening in 1929, the hotel boasts 410 contemporary art deco rooms and suites inspired by yacht style. Smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the premises. Renowned French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon spearheaded a complete renovation of the hotel in 2018. Furthermore, in 2023, the hotel’s private beach was renovated and reopened, offering the culinary delights of the celebrated Chef Jean Imbert. The Palme d’Or restaurant, under the renowned chef, reopened on May 16, 2024, aligning with the grand opening of the Cannes Film Festival. Notably, the hotel is pet-friendly, albeit with a daily pet fee of 70 euros, in addition to potential damages.
Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel
Situated in the pine forest of the Saint Jean Cap de Ferrat peninsula, the Grand Hotel Cap de Ferrat is a luxurious destination on the Côte d’Azur. It houses 74 rooms, including 24 suites and 3 villas, all curated by famous French interior designer Pierre Yves Pochon. The hotel radiates French opulence and elegance, perched on a stunning promontory offering breathtaking views of the azure sea. Moreover, boasting a Michelin-starred restaurant, chef Yoric Tieche will personally craft and serve you an exclusive evening menu in the seclusion of Villa Santo Sospir. The Grand Hotel Cap de Ferrat stands as the epitome of luxury.
Le Negresco
The Negresco is a prominent 5-star hotel located on the beautiful azure beach of Nice. It is an iconic symbol of the city and boasts a rich artistic heritage. The hotel houses an impressive museum with nearly 6,000 art pieces and historical furniture from diverse eras, spanning from the 17th century to the present day. The hotel is unique due to its unusual blend of contemporary and antique spirits. It has 102 rooms and 26 suites, all with a rich art background. This iconic French hospitality also features a luxurious spa, indoor pool, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Renowned as a symbol of enduring style and prestige, the Negresco Hotel is a leading advocate for French art and high society. Its exterior showcases breathtaking Belle Époque architecture, while the interior of each room and corridor is adorned with striking Art Deco, Baroque, and Rococo details. The ownership and profits of the hotel have been entrusted to a foundation dedicated to animal welfare and aiding the underprivileged. This foundation was established by the 86-year-old proprietor, Jeanne Augier, who has presided over the hotel since 1957 and tirelessly championed its rebirth and global influence.
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc
The Du Cap Eden Roc is an exclusive 5-star hotel located in Antibes and is part of the esteemed Oetker Collection. This iconic hotel has been a symbol of luxury and elegance since its inception in 1889 when a private villa built in 1870 was transformed into a hotel, boasting 119 opulent rooms and suites. Perched on the slopes of Antibes, overlooking the pristine azure sea, the hotel consists of three grand buildings: the Hotel du Cap, the Eden Roc, and les 2 Fontaines. With three acclaimed restaurants, including one with a Michelin star, and six sophisticated bars, this establishment is unmatched. Renowned for its elite clientele, the hotel has exclusively accepted cash as payment since 2006, eschewing credit cards. It is a preferred destination for the world’s most discerning individuals. In 2023, it was recognized as one of the top 50 hotels globally, and in 2024, it proudly earned a place on the Conde Nast Gold List.
Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo
The Hermitage Hotel is one of the most prestigious places in Monte Carlo and on the entire French Riviera. The hotel is a perfect blend of belle epoque style and a modern touch. The famous dome with a beautiful stained glass window in the winter garden was designed by Gustave Eiffel and looks exquisite. The hotel offers 278 rooms, including 53 suites and 8 exclusive Monte Carlo diamond suites. Moreover, it boasts a luxurious 7,000 m2 spa and provides a helicopter service upon request. The ground floor features a Crystal Bar and a Lemon Bar, while the panoramic terrace offers a menu with one Michelin star, curated by the renowned chef Yannick Alleno.
Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo
Hotel de Paris stands as a prestigious hotel nestled in the heart of Monte-Carlo, adjacent to the renowned casino. A hub for the global elite, the hotel boasts 182 opulent rooms and suites, along with a sprawling 1500 m2 private winery featuring one of the world’s most extensive wine selections. Notably, the hotel is home to the acclaimed 3-star Michelin restaurant Louis 15, helmed by the celebrated French chef Alain Ducasse. Additionally, guests can indulge in the culinary delights of Le Grill, a Michelin-starred restaurant. A minimum reservation of 4 days is required. Built in 1864 and owned by the Societe des Bains de Mer, the hotel recently underwent a comprehensive $280 million renovation, blending Belle Epoque grandeur with modern sophistication. Boasting 99 rooms across 4 price categories, the hotel has served as the backdrop for numerous films and is a renowned photography location, capturing the attention of visionaries like Helmut Newton and hosting a wildly popular exhibition by Andy Warhol.
