Saint-Martin
High above the glittering Mediterranean Sea, tucked into the sun-drenched hills of Provence, lies a sanctuary where time slows and luxury reigns supreme. Château Saint-Martin & Spa, a jewel of the prestigious Oetker Collection, is more than just a destination—it’s an invitation to experience the art of French living. The former 12th-century Knights Templar stronghold whispers of ancient stories, while its manicured gardens, Michelin-starred dining, and world-class spa embody modern elegance. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the Côte d’Azur, guests at the Château find themselves at the heart of a timeless retreat. Whether it’s indulging in Provençal gastronomy, exploring the artistic enclaves of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, or simply soaking in the panoramic views of the Riviera, the magic of Château Saint-Martin extends far beyond its historic walls.
It’s not just a journey to an estate but a journey into the essence of French culture, where the soul is nourished by the beauty of both nature and art.
Nestled in the heart of the French Riviera’s countryside, Château Saint-Martin & Spa, part of the prestigious Oetker Collection, offers an opulent retreat where history, nature, and elegance seamlessly blend. This stunning estate, perched on a hill overlooking the Côte d’Azur, provides an exceptional blend of luxury accommodations, fine dining, and a holistic spa experience. But the magic of Château Saint-Martin goes beyond its storied walls—it is a gateway to exploring the rich cultural and natural beauty of the surrounding region.
A History Steeped in Romance and Grandeur
Château Saint-Martin & Spa is a former 12th-century Knights Templar stronghold. The hotel’s history seeps into every corner of the estate, from the grand stone terraces to the serene gardens and olive groves. Restored to perfection, it offers a refined elegance while maintaining the spirit of its medieval heritage. The architecture, featuring grand arches and sweeping staircases, reflects the property’s noble past.
This luxurious retreat sits on a vast 35-hectare estate, boasting panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, extending all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. As you walk through the grounds, ancient olive trees and vibrant floral gardens exude a sense of tranquility, blending beautifully with the luxurious amenities.
Accommodations: An Invitation to Indulge
Each of the 46 rooms and suites, many with private terraces, provides breathtaking views of the Riviera or the lush hillside. The interiors are a perfect blend of Provençal charm and modern luxury, with soft color palettes and opulent furnishings. For those seeking the ultimate privacy, the six private villas hidden within the olive groves offer unparalleled seclusion, complete with private pools and expansive terraces.
The accommodations at Château Saint-Martin prioritize not only comfort but also an experience of immersion in the locale. Guests wake up to the soft sounds of nature, with the scent of lavender and pine drifting through their windows. Every detail, from the plush linens to the artisanal touches in décor, reflects a dedication to personalized luxury.
An Ode to Provençal Flavors
One of the defining features of Château Saint-Martin & Spa is its world-class dining. The Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Saint-Martin, serves refined cuisine that draws inspiration from the local terroir. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Jean-Luc Lefrançois, each dish is an artistic masterpiece, harmoniously blending Mediterranean flavors with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Expect dishes like Mediterranean blue lobster, delicate Provençal lamb, and seasonal truffle-based delicacies. Paired with fine French wines, many from the estate’s own cellars, the dining experience is a journey in itself.
The estate’s second dining venue, L’Oliveraie, is a casual yet elegant restaurant nestled among ancient olive trees. The restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in an open-air setting, perfect for a leisurely lunch while soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
A Sanctuary for Mind and Body
A key highlight of the property is its world-renowned Spa Saint-Martin by La Prairie. This serene space invites guests to indulge in bespoke treatments using the luxury skincare brand La Prairie, known for its anti-aging and rejuvenating properties. With six treatment rooms, including a private spa suite, the wellness center provides a tranquil escape. Whether it’s a rejuvenating facial, a deep-tissue massage, or a restorative body ritual, the treatments are designed to harmonize body, mind, and soul.
Complementing the spa is a serene infinity pool overlooking the Côte d’Azur, where guests can unwind after their treatments. The outdoor yoga platform, tennis courts, and fitness center ensure that guests can engage in wellness activities in a peaceful setting surrounded by nature.
Exploring the Surroundings: The Beauty of the French Riviera
While the Château offers a secluded escape, it also serves as an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region, which boasts some of the most iconic and beautiful destinations in the French Riviera.
Vence and Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Medieval Charm and Artistic Heritage
A short drive from the Château is the charming village of Vence, a quintessential medieval town known for its cobblestone streets, historic squares, and artisanal shops. The Cathedral of the Nativity of Saint Mary in Vence houses mosaics by Henri Matisse, making it a cultural must-see for art lovers. Strolling through the village, visitors can explore local galleries, quaint boutiques, and cafés.
Nearby, the world-famous Saint-Paul-de-Vence is another treasure of the region. This fortified village is synonymous with the art world, as it has long been a haven for artists like Marc Chagall and Picasso. The Fondation Maeght, one of the most important modern art museums in France, is located here and features works by Miró, Giacometti, and Braque. Art enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the fusion of art, history, and nature in this village.
The Glamour of the Côte d’Azur: Cannes, Antibes, and Nice
For guests seeking a more vibrant experience, the glamorous cities of Cannes, Antibes, and Nice are within easy reach. Cannes, famous for its annual film festival, offers high-end shopping, fine dining, and beautiful beaches. A visit to Antibes provides a glimpse into the Côte d’Azur’s rich history, with its ancient ramparts, bustling marina, and the Picasso Museum housed in Château Grimaldi.
Nice, the capital of the Riviera, combines stunning seafront views with old-world charm. Visitors can wander along the Promenade des Anglais, visit the vibrant flower markets, and explore the narrow streets of the Old Town. The culinary scene here, from fresh seafood to Niçoise salads, offers a different flavor from the Provençal dining at Château Saint-Martin.
Nature and Adventure: The Verdant Hills of Provence
Beyond the towns and cities, the surrounding hills and countryside of Provence offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Hiking trails wind through the nearby Parc Naturel Régional des Préalpes d’Azur, offering breathtaking views over the Mediterranean and inland Provence. Cycling routes, vineyard tours, and guided excursions to lavender fields are also available for those seeking to connect with the region’s natural beauty.
A Retreat Like No Other
Château Saint-Martin & Spa is more than just a hotel—it is an invitation to experience the art of living in the French Riviera. From its Michelin-starred dining to its holistic spa, the Château offers unparalleled luxury and relaxation. The surrounding region, rich in art, history, and natural beauty, complements the Château’s offerings, making it the perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the best of Provence and the Côte d’Azur. Whether you’re seeking cultural enrichment, gastronomic delights, or simply a place to recharge, Château Saint-Martin & Spa offers a timeless escape.
The French Riviera is a region where culinary excellence and artistic heritage flourish side by side. Around Château Saint-Martin & Spa, you’ll find a number of exceptional Michelin-starred restaurants and iconic art galleries or modern art museums, offering a rich tapestry of fine dining and culture. Below is a guide to the best Michelin-starred restaurants and renowned art destinations near the Château.
Michelin-Starred Restaurants
1. Mirazur (Three Michelin Stars)
Location: Menton (Approx. 1-hour drive from the Château)
Arguably the crown jewel of the Riviera’s fine dining scene, Mirazur, helmed by Chef Mauro Colagreco, is a three-Michelin-star restaurant perched above the Mediterranean in Menton. In 2019, Mirazur was crowned the best restaurant in the world by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Chef Colagreco’s approach is rooted in nature, utilizing biodynamic principles and local, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant’s proximity to the sea is evident in its seafood-focused dishes, with many ingredients sourced from its own gardens.
Mirazur is more than a restaurant; it’s a culinary journey inspired by its surroundings. The breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the enchanting dining room enhance the experience.
2. La Chèvre d’Or (Two Michelin Stars)
Location: Èze (Approx. 45 minutes from the Château)
Nestled in the medieval village of Èze, La Chèvre d’Or offers not only a two-star Michelin dining experience but also one of the most stunning panoramic views on the Riviera. Under the direction of Executive Chef Arnaud Faye, the restaurant showcases the flavors of the Mediterranean with modern flair, emphasizing local ingredients.
The tasting menu is an homage to Provençal and Mediterranean cuisine, with dishes that change with the seasons. Dining here is an unforgettable experience, with views that stretch from the cliffs of Èze over the glittering sea below.
3. Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse (Three Michelin Stars)
Location: Monte Carlo, Monaco (Approx. 1-hour drive from the Château)
For those looking to experience the epitome of luxury, Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse at the Hôtel de Paris in Monte Carlo is a must. With three Michelin stars, this restaurant has become synonymous with French haute cuisine. The restaurant’s design exudes Belle Époque grandeur, and the service is impeccable.
The cuisine at Le Louis XV is Mediterranean-inspired, reflecting the sun, sea, and earth of the Riviera. With dishes like blue lobster and Provençal vegetables, and an unparalleled wine list, this restaurant offers an exceptional experience that combines fine dining with the glamour of Monte Carlo.
4. Hostellerie Jérôme (Two Michelin Stars)
Location: La Turbie (Approx. 45 minutes from the Château)
Hostellerie Jérôme is a two-star Michelin restaurant located in the historic village of La Turbie, not far from Monaco. Chef Bruno Cirino has crafted a menu that combines classic French techniques with ingredients from the nearby Mediterranean and Ligurian regions. This intimate restaurant offers a seasonal menu that emphasizes simplicity, freshness, and flavor, making it a favorite among gourmands seeking refined Provençal cuisine.
The restaurant is housed in a former 13th-century monastery, adding to its charm and offering a beautiful, serene ambiance.
Art Destinations Near Château Saint-Martin & Spa
The French Riviera is a treasure trove of art, particularly modern and contemporary works. Here are the most iconic art museums and galleries located near Château Saint-Martin & Spa:
1. Fondation Maeght
Location: Saint-Paul-de-Vence (Approx. 15-minute drive from the Château)
The Fondation Maeght is one of the most important modern art museums in France. Located in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a village that has long been associated with famous artists, the museum was founded by Aimé and Marguerite Maeght and features works from masters such as Joan Miró, Marc Chagall, Alberto Giacometti, and Georges Braque.
The building itself, designed by Spanish architect Josep Lluís Sert, is a modernist masterpiece that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The collection includes sculptures, paintings, and installations, many of which are displayed outdoors in the museum’s garden, surrounded by Mediterranean flora.
2. Musée Picasso
Location: Antibes (Approx. 40-minute drive from the Château)
Located in the stunning Château Grimaldi in Antibes, the Musée Picasso is a must-see for art lovers. Picasso himself lived and worked in the château in 1946, and the museum is home to one of the most significant collections of his works from that period, including paintings, drawings, and ceramics.
The museum also houses works by other modern artists such as Nicolas de Staël and Hans Hartung, and offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
3. MAMAC (Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain)
Location: Nice (Approx. 30-minute drive from the Château)
The Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain (MAMAC) in Nice is a leading museum for modern and contemporary art on the Riviera. With a focus on the 20th and 21st centuries, MAMAC boasts a vast collection of works by artists such as Yves Klein, Niki de Saint Phalle, and Andy Warhol.
The museum’s striking architecture, with its rooftop terraces offering sweeping views of Nice and the Mediterranean, adds to the overall experience. MAMAC frequently hosts temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collection, making it a dynamic destination for art enthusiasts.
4. Espace de l’Art Concret
Location: Mouans-Sartoux (Approx. 30-minute drive from the Château)
For lovers of contemporary and abstract art, Espace de l’Art Concret in Mouans-Sartoux is an essential stop. The museum is set within a beautiful château and focuses on geometric abstraction and concrete art. The collection was originally formed by the donations of collectors Sybil Albers and Gottfried Honegger, and it continues to grow.
The museum’s serene setting, surrounded by gardens, makes it an ideal place to reflect on the minimalistic yet powerful works on display.
5. Galerie Gismondi
Location: Monaco (Approx. 1-hour drive from the Château)
Monaco’s Galerie Gismondi is one of the premier galleries in the region, specializing in high-quality art and antiques. With a focus on French and Italian masterpieces, this gallery is a haven for those seeking exceptional pieces of art from the 17th to the 19th centuries, including decorative arts, furniture, and sculptures. This gallery also showcases contemporary works from international artists.
The Perfect Blend of Gastronomy and Art
The area surrounding Château Saint-Martin & Spa offers a harmonious balance between the pleasures of the palate and the mind. Whether you are indulging in a multi-course tasting menu at a Michelin-starred restaurant or admiring the works of iconic modern artists, your stay promises a rich cultural and gastronomic experience. Exploring the Riviera’s treasures—from its culinary delights to its artistic masterpieces—will enhance your time at Château Saint-Martin & Spa, creating memories of refinement and beauty.
From Paris, Bordeaux, or Biarritz
Located on the scenic hills above Vence in the heart of Provence, Château Saint-Martin & Spa is easily accessible from major French cities like Paris, Bordeaux, and Biarritz, whether you prefer the convenience of air travel, a luxurious train ride, or a private chauffeur service like Blacklane. Here’s a guide to your journey from these key departure points.
By Air: Commercial Flights, Private Jets, and Business Class
The closest airport to Château Saint-Martin is Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport (NCE), about 25 kilometers away. From the airport, the Château can be reached within 30 minutes by car. Whether flying business class or chartering a private jet, Nice Airport offers a seamless connection to the French Riviera.
From Paris:
• Business Class Flights: Several airlines, including Air France, easyJet, and Ryanair, offer regular flights from Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Paris Orly (ORY) to Nice. The flight duration is around 1 hour 30 minutes, and upon arrival at Nice, a private chauffeur or hotel-arranged transfer can take you to Château Saint-Martin in under 30 minutes.
• Private Jet: Paris offers several private jet options through companies like NetJets or VistaJet, with flight durations of about 1 hour 20 minutes to Nice. On arrival, guests can be greeted by a luxury transfer arranged by the hotel.
From Bordeaux:
• Business Class Flights: Direct flights from Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD) to Nice with Air France or easyJet take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Upon arrival at Nice, a transfer service can take you to the hotel in less than 30 minutes.
• Private Jet: If opting for private travel, the flight from Bordeaux to Nice takes just under 1 hour 20 minutes. Private jet services like GlobeAir can arrange your transfer, offering exclusive access to Nice’s private terminals.
From Biarritz:
• Business Class Flights: Direct flights from Biarritz Airport (BIQ) to Nice are more limited, but connections via Paris are available. The total travel time is about 3 hours, including layover time in Paris.
• Private Jet: For a more direct route, private jet charters from Biarritz to Nice are available and take around 1 hour 30 minutes. On landing, your private transfer will be waiting to whisk you away to the Château.
By Train: The Scenic Route via TGV
For a more leisurely and picturesque journey, France’s high-speed trains (TGV) offer a smooth and scenic ride through the country’s landscapes. The closest major train station to Château Saint-Martin is Nice-Ville Station, which is around 25 kilometers from the Château.
From Paris:
• TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon: The direct TGV from Paris to Nice takes around 5 hours 40 minutes. Trains are equipped with First Class cabins offering spacious seating, power outlets, and Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable journey. Upon arrival at Nice-Ville station, you can arrange a private car transfer or book a ride with Blacklane for the 30-minute drive to the Château.
From Bordeaux:
• TGV from Bordeaux Saint-Jean Station: There are no direct trains from Bordeaux to Nice, but connections via Marseille or Paris are possible. The total journey time is approximately 7 hours. Once you arrive at Nice-Ville, your final transfer to Château Saint-Martin takes about 30 minutes by car.
From Biarritz:
• TGV from Biarritz Station: Similar to Bordeaux, there are no direct trains from Biarritz to Nice. However, you can connect via Bordeaux or Paris for a journey of around 8 to 9 hours. A private transfer from Nice-Ville station to Château Saint-Martin will complete your trip.
Blacklane: Private Chauffeur Services for Ultimate Comfort
If you prefer to travel entirely by road or wish for a seamless transfer from the airport or train station, Blacklane, a premium chauffeur service, offers private transfers directly to Château Saint-Martin from any point of arrival. The fleet includes luxury sedans, SUVs, and even more opulent options like Mercedes-Benz S-Class, ensuring a comfortable and stylish journey.
From Nice Airport or Nice-Ville Station:
• Blacklane offers rides directly from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport or Nice-Ville train station to Château Saint-Martin. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes, passing through the beautiful Provençal countryside before reaching the estate.
From Paris, Bordeaux, or Biarritz:
• If you wish to enjoy the drive down to Provence from one of these cities, Blacklane provides long-distance chauffeur services. From Paris, the drive is approximately 9 hours, while from Bordeaux or Biarritz, it takes around 8 to 9 hours. While this may seem long, a luxury vehicle offers comfort, and the scenic journey through France’s landscapes can become part of the adventure.
The Journey is Part of the Experience
Whether you’re flying business class, chartering a private jet, taking the TGV, or indulging in a luxury road trip with Blacklane, your journey to Château Saint-Martin & Spa promises comfort and elegance from the moment you depart. The ease of connectivity from Paris, Bordeaux, and Biarritz ensures that, no matter how you choose to travel, the exquisite experience of Château Saint-Martin begins long before you arrive at its gates.
Dreaming in the French Riviera and Provence
The French Riviera and Provence are where the Mediterranean’s blue waters meet the rolling hills of vineyards and lavender fields. Here, each corner invites you into a different world of luxury, art, and nature. The journey through these dream places isn’t just about visiting destinations—it’s about experiencing a world where time seems to stand still, and beauty takes center stage.
Côte d’Azur
Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, a Four Seasons Hotel – Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Perched on the edge of the Cap-Ferrat peninsula, the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat stands like a timeless guardian of the Mediterranean Sea. Majestic and grand, it offers guests an unrivaled luxury experience in one of the most beautiful corners of the world. Here, the blue of the sky merges seamlessly with the sea, creating a horizon of endless possibility.
Guests lounge at Club Dauphin, where an infinity pool seems to pour directly into the Mediterranean, and unwind in an atmosphere of ultimate tranquility. Wine lovers are drawn into a cellar that feels more like a treasure trove, housing rare vintages from the world’s most celebrated vineyards. As the sun sets, casting golden rays over the estate, the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat becomes a beacon of elegance, inviting visitors to savor the Riviera’s most exclusive pleasures.
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Antibes
Few names evoke glamour like Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, where the world’s brightest stars and most powerful figures retreat for privacy and indulgence. Nestled within a 22-acre park on the southern tip of Cap d’Antibes, this legendary hotel is a sanctuary for those who seek the finest things in life. Its Napoleon III-style façade is a nod to a bygone era of grandeur, yet inside, every detail is refined for modern tastes.
By land or sea, all paths seem to lead here—whether cruising along the Mediterranean from Saint-Tropez or sailing in from Italy’s Riviera Dei Fiori. At Eden-Roc, time slows, and life takes on a golden hue as the Mediterranean breeze carries whispers of history and luxury. Whether dining in the sun-dappled gardens or arriving by yacht to the private dock, this hotel represents the pinnacle of Riviera sophistication.
Cheval Blanc Saint-Tropez
On the shimmering shores of Saint-Tropez, Cheval Blanc invites you into a world where the lush pine forests meet the endless sea. Designed like a private residence, this boutique hotel boasts just 30 rooms, each one offering an intimate view of the Mediterranean or the iconic village below, its bell tower framed against the azure sky. Every corner of Cheval Blanc is infused with the effortless chic of the Tropézien lifestyle, from its sun-kissed terraces to the elegant beach club.
For gastronomes, the experience peaks at La Vague d’Or, the hotel’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant. Here, Chef Arnaud Donckele crafts culinary works of art inspired by the sea and the land, each bite offering a taste of the region’s finest flavors. The journey concludes with relaxation at the Guerlain Spa, where every treatment is tailored to rejuvenate body and mind in perfect harmony with nature.
Provence
La Réserve Ramatuelle
Just a short drive from the vibrant streets of Saint-Tropez, La Réserve Ramatuelle offers an escape into nature’s embrace. Perched above the Mediterranean, this serene retreat blends luxury with the rustic beauty of Provence. The modern architecture by Jean-Michel Wilmotte is a study in understated elegance, and each of the 28 rooms, suites, and villas is designed to immerse guests in the tranquil surroundings.
For those seeking absolute peace, the La Réserve Spa offers treatments inspired by the natural elements of Provence—lavender, olive oil, and rosemary—fostering relaxation and healing. Here, guests can lose themselves in the quiet beauty of nature, whether hiking through the countryside or gazing at the sea from a private terrace.
Byblos Saint-Tropez
If Saint-Tropez is the playground of the Mediterranean, then Byblos is its heart. This iconic hotel, located just steps from the bustling streets of the town center, offers a retreat that balances luxury and fun in perfect harmony. At Byblos, the days are for lounging by the pool, indulging in the Sisley Spa, and wandering through the picturesque streets of Saint-Tropez, while the nights are filled with glittering soirées at the hotel’s exclusive club.
The charm of Byblos lies in its ability to adapt to its guests’ desires, offering both tranquility and a touch of indulgence, making it the perfect base for exploring the vibrant soul of Saint-Tropez.
Airelles Saint-Tropez - Le Château de La Messardière
On a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean, Le Château de La Messardière is a 19th-century palace that exudes old-world charm. With its sprawling private park and sweeping views of the sea, the château offers guests a sense of seclusion, despite being just moments away from the vibrant center of Saint-Tropez. It’s more than just a hotel—it’s a sanctuary, where the world’s elite come to relax in utter privacy.
Within the park, guests can explore nature trails or enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the bird sanctuary, a unique feature that adds to the château’s tranquil atmosphere. The service, as impeccable as the setting, ensures that every moment spent here feels like stepping back into a golden age of luxury.
Airelles Gordes, La Bastide
Clinging to the cliffs above the village of Gordes, Airelles La Bastide is an ancestral château with panoramic views of the Luberon Valley. The stone façade, warmed by the Provençal sun, gives way to interiors rich in history, where every room is a study in refinement. Gordes, one of France’s most beautiful villages, feels like a timeless outpost in the midst of Provence, offering guests a peaceful escape from the world.
At La Bastide, every detail is curated to perfection, from the Michelin-starred dining to the lush gardens that seem to extend endlessly into the horizon. For those seeking an authentic Provençal experience, this is the ultimate destination.
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Villa La Coste
In the heart of the Provençal vineyards, Villa La Coste blends luxury with contemporary art and nature. Each of the 28 suites offers sweeping views over the estate’s vineyards, and some even boast private pools. The clean lines and minimalist design create a perfect balance with the surrounding landscape.
The artistic spirit of Villa La Coste is palpable throughout, with sculptures and installations dotting the grounds. Guests can indulge in treatments at the spa, which uses local products like jasmine, lavender, and olive, or savor the estate’s own wine in one of the many serene corners of the property. Villa La Coste is more than just a place to stay—it’s a celebration of the senses.
These dream places along the Côte d’Azur and in Provence are not just hotels or destinations—they are experiences. Each one offers a unique invitation to escape, to indulge, and to find beauty in the most extraordinary of settings. Whether you are seeking the glamour of Saint-Tropez or the peaceful retreat of the Provençal countryside, the French Riviera offers a tapestry of luxurious escapes waiting to be discovered.