Editors' Picks

Château Saint-Martin & Spa

Romantic, luxurious, fairy-tale setting

2490 Avenue Des Templiers, Vence 06142

+33 49 358-0202

See Website

At a Glance

Set in the hills of Provence, this Oetker Collection property is steeped in history, dating back to Roman times, when it was a strategically placed encampment, before it was later entrusted to the Crusaders on their return from Jerusalem. Today, the 34-acre château (the sister property of Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc), maintains much of its medieval charms, with its private 12th-century chapel, ancient olive trees and gardens. Transformed into a hotel in 1954, it is now one of Europe’s more luxurious destination spas, with 40 rooms and suites, six villas and an infinity pool that offers just the right amount of shade from the Mediterranean sun. Guests who choose to drag themselves away from this oasis have plenty of opportunities to explore neighboring hill towns, visit local vineyards, shop at flower markets in Nice or cultivate their own custom fragrance at the perfume factory in Grasse. The Provençal dream.

The Standout: The main building, a former 12th-century knights’ stronghold Don’t Miss: A hike up into the surrounding hillside, with a chef-prepared aperitif and views of the château and the French Riviera beyond as your reward

Indagare Loves

  • The one-Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Saint-Martin, which draws from the chef ’s garden of fresh vegetables and herbs, and L’Oliveraie for lunch outside
  • The art exhibitions that take place on-property each summer
  • The proximity to nearby cultural destinations like St.-Paul-de-Vence and Nice

Review

Château Saint-Martin & Spa is a 40-room hotel with six villas right out of a fairytale. The 34-acre property was once a 12th-century knights’ stronghold, and the grand main structure that stands on its ruins now houses most of the guest rooms.

The restaurant and wood-paneled salons also occupy the historic building, now complete with chandeliers, antiques and Gobelins tapestries. Paths through the gardens lead to a lovely pool area shaded by ancient olive trees with umbrellas, chaise lounges and a poolside bar. The outdoor restaurant L’Oliveraie serves light meals in the garden during the day and offers a casual dining experience in the evening; the gourmet restaurant Le St. Martin with one Michelin star is open for dinner. Also tucked away in the garden are two clay tennis courts and an indulgent spa. Don’t miss a wine tasting in the Chateau’s wine cellar, which is built into the cave.

Who Should Stay

Families and couples looking for a magical and pampering escape in the Provençal countryside

Written by Kathryn Nathanson

What's Nearby
Indagare employees walking up stiars

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