Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur is France's most sun-drenched region, stretching from the Rhône delta in the west to the Italian border in the east. It encompasses the world-famous French Riviera (Côte d'Azur) — Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez — the ancient Provençal heartland of Aix-en-Provence and Avignon, Marseille's rugged port culture, the violet lavender plateaus of Valensole, the turquoise-water Calanques, and the dramatic Gorges du Verdon. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, the region is France's premier year-round destination.
Luxury hotels
Five-star and palace properties.
Hotel du Cap Eden Roc, Cap d'Antibes
The most legendary hotel on the French Riviera, in continuous operation since 1870. Set in 9 hectares of pine forest at the tip of Cap d'Antibes with a seawater pool carved from rock and the Grill restaurant above the sea. No credit cards accepted (bank transfer or cash only). Rooms from €700 / approx USD 763 per night (May–October); closed November–March.
Château de la Messardière, Saint-Tropez
A 19th-century Moorish château on a hillside above Saint-Tropez with multiple pools, spa, and the two-Michelin-starred Terrasse restaurant. Closed November–March.
Villa Gallici, Aix-en-Provence
Relais & Châteaux property in a 19th-century Provençal villa 10 minutes from Cours Mirabeau; 22 rooms, lavender garden, heated pool, and acclaimed restaurant. One of the region's most romantic luxury hotels.
Fine dining
Michelin-starred and chef-driven restaurants.
Mirazur, Menton
Chef: Mauro Colagreco
Le Petit Nice Passédat, Marseille
Chef: Gérald Passédat
La Chèvre d'Or, Èze Village
Chef: Arnaud Faye
La Bastide Saint-Antoine, Grasse
Chef: Jacques Chibois