The 20 Best Small Hotels in the South of France

For an intimate stay in the South of France, there are a good selection of small hotels to choose from. Ranging from converted country houses to luxury boutiques, charming family-run guesthouses, or even Michelin-starred restaurants with a handful of rooms. Often providing a more quintessential French experience, our hotel gurus have made a collection of the best small hotels in the South of France to make planning your next summer escape a complete breeze!

For luxury

• Simplicity and elegance combine at the luxurious five-star, Muse, situated just outside St Tropez. Everything is geared towards relaxation with 14 deluxe rooms, a tranquil outdoor pool, a stunning landscaped garden and a superb seafood restaurant.
• Le Pre de la Mer is an elegant four-star hotel located in St Tropez. Chic minimalist rooms open onto a private terrace and the best suites offer direct access to the pool. With a small spa and a terrace restaurant, this is an indulgent stay.
• The exclusive five-star hotel and spa, Saint Amour La Tartane, is situated in a verdant park in St Tropez. Rooms are elegant and well-appointed. The alfresco dining and luxury yacht trips ensure this is a VIP stay.

For a romantic break

• The stylish boutique Hotel Le Mandala is another small property on the outskirts of Saint Tropez. Lavish suites offer private terraces and separate living spaces. With alfresco dining and a pool side bar, this is a perfect choice for a romantic escape.
• Le Moulin de Lourmarin is a charming former 18th century oil mill turned hotel in Provence. The uniquely charming suites, fantastic regional meals and massage treatments make this the ideal getaway for two.
• Villa Baulieu was originally owned by Henry III in 1576, then the wealthiest Provencal families and now is an opulent guesthouse. The 11 rooms are plushly fitted out, without being excessive. Set in 220 hectares of estate land, and with its own wine to sample, this is a Provencal dream for a romantic escape.

For foodies

• Chateau Eza is a centuries-old château in the heart of picturesque Eze boasting outstanding views over the French Riviera. With its own private beach and a Michelin starred restaurant run by Alex Wagner, you'll want for nothing in this Côte D'Azur gem.
• Hotel Alain Llorca is another option with Michelin starred dining. Set within the Provencal countryside, with large elegant rooms, an outdoor pool, and an intimate bar. A grown-up rural escape.
• The stunning Mougins Luxury Retreats stands above the Bay of Cannes in the heart of Mougins, offering suites, apartments and villas decorated in a light, modern style. There is a cafe, outdoor pool, and spa onsite while the village is renowned for its Michelin starred restaurants which are within walking distance.
• A sublime restaurant with wonderful rooms and sweeping valley views, Hotel des Deux Rocs offers excellent food and shady terraces all in a stunning location. A gourmet spot fit for families and romantic breaks.
• Grand Hotel Henri is an historic hotel located in the centre of L'Isle sur la Sorgue, oozing timeless elegance and sophistication. The rooms epitomise French chic while the pretty courtyard restaurant is headed by renowned Michelin starred Chef Pascal Gin.

For families

• Le Mouillage is a charming four-star hotel set within a Provencal country house in St Tropez. Featuring a pretty swimming pool and individually styled rooms and suites, the larger of which sleeps up to four making this ideal for families.
• Hôtel des Maures is a charming riverside guesthouse set in Collobrières, Var. Spacious family suites are offered for those travelling with children. There's a lovely regional restaurant and plenty of historical sites nearby.

For a beach stay

• La Villa Mauresque is a unique and beautiful Neo-Moorish villa on the Cote d'Azur blessed with dazzling panoramic views. The rooms all have their own character, some with private hot tubs. With private beach access and a collection of small boast and kayaks to hire, this is the perfect coastal escape.

For a rural escape

• Villa Fabulite is 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 and olive trees - which houses the all important pool.
• La Bastide de Marie is a luxurious converted Provençal bastide in a glorious rural setting. Elegant interiors feature whitewashed stone walls and cast iron beds. There are beautifully manicured gardens surrounded by vineyards and lines of cypress trees. An exceptionally nice pool and a highly acclaimed restaurant. Simply perfect.
• La Bastide de Boulbon is a beautifully renovated mansion surrounded by rose gardens in a charming medieval village between Avignon and Nimes. Cool, contemporary rooms feature beamed ceilings, whitewashed walls and enormous windows. Excellent cuisine is served on a charming patio. A lovely rural base to come and completely unwind.

For a city pad

• Villa Claudia is an idyllic villa, located in Cannes, with a leafy garden and a pretty terrace. Interiors are classic and elegant featuring high ceilings, a grand central fireplace and chesterfield sofas. A classic stay and great value too.
• Villa Pruly Hotel is another great value option. This charming hotel offers a relaxing stay in the heart of Cannes. Each room has its own unique, eclectic style with bold murals, retro style furniture and marble bathrooms.

Still not sure which to book?

• Browse through our collection of the best luxury hotels in the South of France or the best hotel pools in the South of France or the best spa hotels in the South of Fance.
• Expand your search to include our suggestions in the Cote D'Azur, Saint Tropez, Cannes, or Nice.
• 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.
• Alternatively you can contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

  • Muse St-Tropez (Ramatuelle) 14 rooms from £451

    
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    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

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  • Le Pre de la Mer St-Tropez (Cote d'Azur) 14 rooms from £334

    
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    Hideaway  -  Located in a secluded building with a private bar and restaurant, this hotel is perfect hideaway holiday destination

    Beach Life  -  Within close proximity to the best beaches in St Tropez, this hotel is a great base for a beach break

    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the cosy hotel rooms with a private terrace, plus the chic outdoor pool

    Sailing  -  Spend a day on the crystalline waters of the Côte d'Azur with a sailing trip

    

    This elegant, four-star hotel is located in St Tropez. Rooms are simply dressed with crisp linens and clean lines, opening onto a private terrace. The best suites offer direct access to the pool and feature designer furnishings. Eat at the poolside restaurant before a spa treatment. A luxury stay. See More

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  • Hotel Le Mandala St-Tropez (Cote d'Azur) 13 rooms from £325

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the hotel's romantic terrace and pool, plus the al fresco dining available at the hotel restaurant

    Hideaway  -  Set just outside of the busy centre of St Tropez, this hotel makes a great hideaway holiday destination

    City Style  -  The contemporary and stylish interiors of this hotel has reams of city style

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    

    This stylish boutique hotel is located just outside of the centre of St Tropez. Suites offer lavish furnishings, a separate living space and private terrace; book the penthouse for added luxury. Enjoy al fresco dining at the hotel restaurant or relax with a drink by the pool. A chic city bolt-hole. See More

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  • Chateau Eza Eze 12 rooms from £312

    
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    Foodies  -  1 Michelin Star restaurant run by Axel Wagner

    Views  -  Stunning views over the French Riviera

    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.

    Opulent

    

    Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

    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. See More

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  • La Tartane St-Tropez (Cote d'Azur) 28 rooms from £253

    
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    Beach Life  -  Located a stone's throw from the coveted beaches of St Tropez, this hotel makes a great base for a seaside break

    Honeymoons  -  Book a luxurious suite for added indulgence on your honeymoon; enquire with the hotel for honeymoon packages

    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the hotel's stylish suites and the pretty outdoor pool

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    

    This exclusive, five-star hotel and spa is situated in a verdant park in St Tropez. Rooms are elegant and well-appointed with natural accents; the best suites offer separate living space and a private terrace. Enjoy al fresco dining at the hotel restaurant before a luxury yacht trip. A chic hotel. See More

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  • Le Mouillage St-Tropez (Port du Pilon) 14 rooms from £247

    
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    Hideaway  -  Set just outside of the centre of St Tropez with a private pool and a plush garden, this hotel makes a perfect hideaway holiday

    Groups  -  The larger suites are perfect for groups or families and can accommodate up to four people

    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the hotel's peaceful setting and attentive staff, plus the great outdoor pool

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Citadel of Saint-Tropez, a historic 17th-century fortress now housing a museum with nautical exhibits

    

    This charming, four-star hotel is set within a Provencal country house in St Tropez. Rooms are individually styled in a blend of modern and traditional interior design; the best suites have a private terrace overlooking the garden. Unwind by the secluded outdoor pool; a relaxed home away from home. See More

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  • Hotel Alain Llorca Saint-Paul-de-Vence (La Colle sur Loup) 10 rooms from £221

    
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    Country Escape  -  Set into the hillside, yet just 7km from the Med, offers peace and tranquility with a dash of gourmet

    Great walks  -  On the beaches west of Nice

    Sailing  -  Many schools nearby

    Sights nearby  -  Saint Paul de Vence

    

    Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel

    A chic hotel in the Provencal countryside. Large, elegant rooms are filled with antiques, white washed walls, and rustic furnishings. Outdoor pool, terrace, and a shady garden. Michelin starred cuisine, intimate bar. Grown-up, peaceful, gourmet. See More

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  • Mougins Luxury Retreats 06250 Mougins 11 rooms from £217

    
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    Foodies  -  There are many Michelin-star restaurants in this tiny, picturesque village.

    Beach Life  -  Within easy reach of the beaches at Cannes, Antibes and Juan les Pins

    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor swimming pool.

    Views  -  Great views from hotel

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Stunning hotel standing above the Bay of Cannes in the heart of Mougins, offering suites, apartments and villas decorated in a light, modern style with artworks and sprinklings of rustic furnishings. There is a cafe, outdoor pool, spa and Michelin-star restaurants within walking distance. See More

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  • La Villa Mauresque Saint Raphael (Boulouris) 17 rooms from £169

    
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    Restaurant  -  Mediterranean Provencal cuisine

    Views  -  Great views from hotel

    Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.

    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.

    

    A unique and beautiful Neo-Moorish villa on the Cote d'Azur blessed with dazzling panoramic views. The rooms all have their own character, some with private hot tubs. Neutral tones with lashings of vibrant colour - spacious, airy and light. Soak up the Mediterranean air: a perfect beach break. See More

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  • Villa Fabulite Juan-les-Pins (Cote d'Azur) 13 rooms from £164

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Nestled within pretty gardens with individually designed rooms and a cosy bar, this hotel is great for couples

    Sights nearby  -  Le Jardin Botanique de Villa Thuret is about 10 minutes walk away, and the Picasso Museum in Antibes is only 2 miles

    Great walks  -  Explore the Alpes-Maritimes on a long walk and discover Pierrefeu, a beautiful village close to Nice

    Restaurant  -  La Villa du Cap serves lunch and dinner using the best of the day's market ingredients.

    

    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. See More

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  • Villa Claudia 06400 Cannes 18 rooms from £74

    
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    Local exploring  -  Surrounded by tranquil gardens yet just a short stroll from Cannes' central buzz, great for both exploration and relaxation

    Value chic  -  With small doubles starting from only €85 per night, Villa Claudia is excellent value on the Cote d'Azur!

    Great walks  -  Stroll down the palm shaded promenade of La Croisette for a flavour of Cannes' luxury scene, and end with a dip at the beach

    Local markets  -  Wander around Marché Forville, Cannes' busy food market

    

    An idyllic villa with a leafy garden and a pretty terrace. Interiors are classic and elegant featuring high ceilings, a grand central fireplace and chesterfield sofas, while chic rooms in earthy colours have minimalist, modern furniture and framed prints of film stars. A gem, and great value too! See More

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  • Villa Pruly Hotel Cannes (Prado - Republique) 14 rooms from £95

    
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    Local exploring  -  This hotel is within short walking distance of all that Cannes has to offer

    Total relaxation  -  Escape the city and relax in the private garden or on the terrace

    City Style  -  The cosmopolitan glamour of Cannes is at your doorstep

    Quirky  -  An experience!

    

    This charming hotel offers a relaxing stay in the heart of Cannes. Each room has its own unique, eclectic style with bold murals, retro style furniture and marble bathrooms. Superb continental breakfasts are served in the tropically inspired dining room. Well located and well priced. See More

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  • Hôtel des Maures Collobrières, Côte d'Azur 15 rooms from £61

    
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    Romantic Break  -  The pretty village setting and the cosy hotel bar and restaurant make this a perfect choice for a quiet couple's getaway

    Families  -  The family rooms are a great option for parents travelling with children, accommodating up to 5 people

    Local exploring  -  Located in the heart of a medieval French village, this hotel is a great base for local exploring

    Sights nearby  -  Visit Monastère Notre-Dame de Clémence de La Verne, a 12th-century hilltop monastery in a forest

    

    This pretty guesthouse is located in Collobrières, Var. First opened in the late 19th-century, it has since undergone a complete renovation and offers bright, modern rooms; book a spacious family suite if you are travelling with children. Dine at the hotel's riverfront restaurant; a charming hotel. See More

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  • Hotel des Deux Rocs Seillans 14 rooms from £65

    
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    Foodies  -  The highly acclaimed restaurant serves Provençal cuisine using produce from carefully chosen local farmers, hunters & fishermen

    Value chic  -  With rooms starting at well below the 100 Euro mark, this is a well-priced option with standout food and elegant design

    Active Holiday  -  Whether you like to hike, cycle, climb, fish or sail — there is plenty to keep active with in the surrounding area

    Families  -  The mezzanine style family suite is a spacious and affordable option for families

    

    A sublime restaurant serving standout Provençal cuisine with wonderful rooms and sweeping valley views. Expect excellent food and shady terraces, three family rooms sleeping four, all in a stunning location. A gourmet spot fit for families and romantic breaks. See More

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  • Grand Hotel Henri L'Isle sur La Sorgue (1 Cours René Char) 17 rooms from £139

    
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    Hotel Entertainment  -  Start your evening with a glass of champagne at the hotel bar, followed by a spoiling array of culinary treats on the terrace

    Romantic Break  -  An enchanting and romantic spot, with sumptuous suites, elegant interiors, great food and pampering service

    Foodies  -  The on site restaurant has gained critical acclaim for its fine French cuisine

    Elegant  -  Classic French chic with soft colours, wall mouldings, and antiques

    

    A historic hotel located in the centre of L'Isle Sur la Sorgue, oozing timeless elegance and sophistication. The rooms epitomise French chic - decorated in soft colours, chandeliers and antique furnishings. The courtyard restaurant serves sophisticated regional cuisine. An elegant stay. See More

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  • Le Moulin de Lourmarin Lourmarin 25 rooms from £155

    
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    Foodies  -  Expect classic Provençal cuisine with a contemporary flair (and a very good wine list) at the highly-acclaimed restaurant

    Romantic Break  -  The uniquely charming suites, fantastic regional meals and massage treatments make this the ideal getaway for two

    Country Escape  -  Set in one of Provence’s prettiest pastoral villages, this is an idyllic rural escape

    Boutique  -  Quaint, classic, and charming along with a touch of cool at this boutique stay

    

    A charming former 18th-century oil mill turned hotel in Provence. Rooms are spacious and comfortable with elegant furnishings and simple colour schemes. Enjoy Provençal style food in the hotel's cavernous restaurant. Ideal for a romantic break in the countryside. See More

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  • La Bastide de Marie Ménerbes, Provence 14 rooms from £274

    
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    Honeymoons  -  Enchanting Provencal hotel with a rustic chic luxury suites, antique furnishings, stunning landscape and fantastic food

    Wine tasting  -  Be sure to check out the 15 hectares of vineyard that surround the hotel, wine tastings are a must!

    Foodies  -  Impeccable food, sourced from the local area, and paired with wine made on the property

    Great walks  -  Wander through Luberon Regional Park and the surrounding vineyards

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Kiwi Collection

    Luxurious converted Provençal bastide in a glorious rural setting. Elegant interiors with white washed stone walls and cast iron beds. Beautifully manicured gardens surrounded by vineyards and lines of Cyprus trees. An exceptionally nice pool and a highly acclaimed restaurant. Simply perfect. See More

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  • La Bastide de Boulbon Boulbon, Provence 9 rooms from £139

    
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    Local exploring  -  Well set to access some Provence classic including Avignon, Les Baux, Saint-Rémy de Provence, and the Pont du Gard and Arles

    Country Escape  -  A charming country house situated in a pretty quite village, with stunning gardens and centuries-old plane trees

    Active Holiday  -  With hiking, miles of cycling trails, golf courses, and tennis courts all found locally

    Walking distance restaurants  -  There are plenty of very good restaurants in the village, just a stroll away

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Beautifully renovated mansion surrounded by rose gardens in a charming medieval village. Cool, contemporary rooms with beamed ceilings, white washed walls and enormous sash windows. Excellent cuisine served on a charming patio. A lovely base to come and completely unwind. See More

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  • Villa Baulieu Aix-en-Provence 11 rooms from £278

    
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    Elegant  -  Elegant design includes a variety of styles, from Italian and English to Napoleon III and Louis XIV and XVI

    Wine tasting  -  Taste the estate's wines with the resident oenologist — it specialises in premium organic whites and reds

    Romantic Break  -  With wine tasting, a hot tub set atop one of the towers, and grand interiors — this is a romantic base

    Country Escape  -  Expect classic rural french entertainment including cycling, tennis, and boules

    

    Originally a property of Henry III in 1576, and the wealthiest Provencal families - now an opulent guesthouse. The rooms are plushly fitted out, without being excessive: traditional wallpapers and soft colours. 220 hectares of estate to explore, and its wine to sample - experience true Provence. See More

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Written by Katie Harris

posted Wednesday, 1st February 2023