FRENCH RIVIERA
France
WHERE TO STAY
Best overall: Four Seasons Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat
Highlights: Combines classic French Riverian architecture and fabulousness with Four Season service, which is friendly but unpretentious. The building structure is grand and traditional, and the pool overlooks the sea. There is a kids club which is great for families, and there are rooms with private pools, making it perfect for couples.
Watchout: Important to note that there isn’t really a beach, but there are unbeatable sea views!
Best vibe: Maybourne Riviera
Highlights: Super contemporary resort, owned by the same people as Claridge’s and the Berkeley. The Maybourne Riviera is perched on a hill overlooking three different countries, Italy, France, and Monaco. Easy to go into Monaco and dine and then return to a more secluded spot. Hotel itself has a Jean Georges restaurant by the pool.
Tips: Up on a hill but will be building their own beach club.
Best splurge: Hotel du Cap-Eden Roc
Highlights: Iconic, a legend, so difficult to get into that you’re not considered a “regular” until you’ve stayed 5 times. This is ground zero for celeb and mogul spotting, making it the ultimate Riviera power scene.
Best value: Terre Blanche
Highlights: All suites at Terre Blanche tend to have multiple rooms. The least expensive ones can fit a family of four, making it easier to stay in an expensive part of the world. They have a kids club and also space enough to spread out so couples don’t feel overwhelmed by families - although overall this feels like more of a family resort.
Tips: A nice golf program– should be on the list for golf fanatics.
Best for romance: Cap Estel
Highlights: Close to Cap Ferrat, on its own private piece of land. A beautiful manor home, that also has other accommodations spread throughout the property. Popular for wedding buyouts. Close enough to visit the restaurants and sights of Eze or St. Jean but private and tucked away. The rooms that are very special for couples have a very contemporary and youthful feeling. Ideal for honeymooners.
Tips: Book the deluxe room with balcony!
Best for families: Royal Riviera
Highlights: Located by Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Royal Riviera is one of the few hotels with a sandy beach on property and is fitted out with classic architecture and design. Conveniently walkable to restaurants, a very picturesque part of the coast with loads of charm.
Best for groups: Cannes
Highlights: For groups who need a larger resort and a more urban environment or flexibility in pricing and event space, the hotels in Cannes are prime.
Tips: The Martinez was recently renovated and is looking especially fresh these days, and the Carlton should be emerging with its refreshed rooms soon.