Fodor's Expert Review Château du Domaine St. Martin

2490 av. des Templiers, Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, 06142 Cedex, France

Occupying the site of an ancient Knights Templar fortress and set amid 34 acres of private greenery designed by Jean Mus, this hilltop domain has 180-degree panoramic views and is complete with a helicopter pad. Inside are light, airy public salons, where afternoon tea and rare Champagnes are offered, and luxurious guest quarters; there are also two- and three-bedroom villas accented with beautiful antiques. But Le St-Martin, the Michelin-star restaurant (yup, there's a dress code!) with an 8,000-bottle wine list, is perhaps the best reason to come here. Chef Jean-Luc Lefrançois's creations are superb, and the terrace views over Old Vence to the Baie des Anges are eye-popping. On the last Friday of every month, there's a wine tasting at the underground Les Canthares.

PROS

  • flawless views and service
  • biodiversity refuge that supports a bird-protection charity and provides nesting boxes
  • superb Michelin-starred restaurant

CONS

  • buffet breakfast €40
  • nothing really within walking distance
  • minimum stay required during some periods

QUICK FACTS

Hotel
$$$$

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 04–93–58–02–02

HOTEL DETAILS

46 rooms
Rate Includes: Closed mid-Oct.–Apr., No Meals

What’s Nearby