Chateau de Berne

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

  • 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

Hotel Belles Rives

  • 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

Chateau de la Chevre d Or

  • 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

Chateau saint Martin and Spa

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

Negresco Hotel

  • 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

Althoff Hotel Villa Beltroseits

  • 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:

20 of The Best Luxury Hotels in the South of France

Château Saint-Martin & Spa

Saint-Paul-de-Vence (Cote d'Azur)

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.

  • 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.
from AU$793 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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La Mirande

Avignon

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.

  • 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
from AU$745 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel Crillon le Brave

Provence (Provence)

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.

  • 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
from AU$518 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Château de Berne

Provence (Var)

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.

  • 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
from AU$437 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Villa Gallici

Aix-en-Provence (Aix-en-Provence)

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.

  • 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
from AU$453 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Negresco Hotel

Nice

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!

  • 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
from AU$233 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Cap Estel

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.

  • Swimming Pool - Salt-water infinity pool overlooking the sea and Indoor pool
  • Beach nearby - Private beach.
  • Chic
  • Outstanding location
from AU$1407 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Le Chateau des Alpilles

Provence

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.

  • 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
from AU$388 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Five Seas Hotel

Cannes

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.

  • Restaurant - 2 restaurants. Sea Sens has 1 Michelin star, run by chef Arnaud Tabarec
  • Views
  • 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
from AU$304 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Château Les Carrasses

Capestang (Quarante)

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.

  • Families - With private villas and pools, babysitting services and activities based around the mini farm it is great for families
  • EV Charging Station - A small charge is payable.
  • 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.
from AU$267 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Château St. Pierre de Serjac

Herault (Languedoc)

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!

  • EV Charging Station - Available for a fee.
  • 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
from AU$306 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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La Bastide de Gordes

Gordes

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.

  • 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.
from AU$316 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Les Bories

Gordes

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.

  • 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
from AU$518 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Muse

St-Tropez (Ramatuelle)

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.

  • 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.
from AU$842 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Grand Hotel du Cap-Ferrat

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!

  • 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
from AU$1502 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Château de la Chèvre d’Or

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.

  • 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
from AU$971 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Althoff Hotel Villa Belrose

St-Tropez (Cote d'Azur)

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.

  • 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
from AU$1254 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel Belles Rives

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.

  • 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
from AU$568 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Lou Pinet

St-Tropez

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.

  • 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
from AU$633 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Lily of the Valley

Ramatuelle (Quartier de Gigaro)

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.

  • 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
from AU$1214 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Written by Katie Harris

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