A trip to the South of France is the stuff of summer vacation fantasies. Beyond its marquee coastal destinations, the French Riviera brims with beautiful little towns that serve up a slice of seaside sophistication without the suffocating summer crowds β and often for a fraction of the cost. The epitome of exclusivity and seaside glamour, the luxury legend has lured artists, celebrities, and European glitterati for decades.
Everyone from the Kennedys to the Kardashians has stayed at the five-star grande dame throughout its illustrious history. Scott Fitzgerald, and Ernest Hemingway the latter most likely at the bar. Rita Hayworth and Aly Khan famously spent time canoodling in the private cabanas.
Last summer, A-listers came out in droves for the lavish wedding of Sophia Richie and Elliot Grainge. A relaxed retreat for discerning sun-seekers, the property presents a sublime opportunity to lounge under pretty pink umbrellas right on the sand and bliss out in the pool with hydromassage jets.
Stylish interiors give off modern meet meets retro vibes and the thoughtful service takes a stay to the next level. Rooms feature light wood floors, crisp linens, tropical touches, and either a balcony or terrace. The hive of seaside activity in Antibes buzzes around Juan-les-Pins. In this resort-y part of town, visitors will find sandy beaches, a seafront promenade, and plenty of upscale spots to spread out. In comparison to the exclusive beach clubs of Saint Tropez, the coastal haunts on this sun-kissed stretch of the French Riviera still feel upscale but a lot more laid-back.
When the sun goes down, the area turns up with cocktail bars and nightclubs. At Plage du Ponteil, a minute walk from the center of Antibes, Parisians escaping balmy summers in the city and travelers from around Europe roll out towels on the sand and wade into the ocean.
